Fontodi, Colli della Toscana Centrale Syrah IGT, Case Via

About Fontodi

Fontodi is a distinguished wine estate located in the heart of the Chianti Classico region, specifically in the celebrated “Conca d’Oro” or Golden Shell of Panzano, Tuscany. The Manetti family, known for their historical ties to terracotta production, acquired the estate in 1968 and have since dedicated themselves to producing high-quality, terroir-driven wines. The estate covers approximately 130 hectares, with about 80 hectares under vine, primarily planted to Sangiovese. Fontodi’s vineyards are situated at elevations ranging from 330 to 420 meters above sea level, benefiting from optimal sun exposure and a unique microclimate that encourages slow, even ripening of the grapes. The soils are predominantly galestro, a schistous clay, which is ideal for growing Sangiovese and contributes to the wines’ structure and elegance.

Fontodi practices certified organic viticulture and has been a pioneer in sustainable farming within the region. The estate employs environmentally friendly methods such as composting, cover cropping, and integrated pest management, ensuring the health of the vines and the surrounding ecosystem. The Manetti family’s philosophy centers on expressing the distinctiveness of their land through minimal intervention both in the vineyard and the cellar. Harvesting is done by hand, and great care is taken to select only the healthiest, ripest grapes for vinification.

In the cellar, Fontodi blends tradition with innovation. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks using indigenous yeasts, and the wines are aged in a combination of French oak barriques and larger casks, depending on the cuvée. This approach allows for the preservation of Sangiovese’s natural vibrancy while adding complexity and structure. The estate’s flagship wine, Flaccianello della Pieve, is a pure Sangiovese made from the best parcels and is widely regarded as one of Italy’s premier red wines. Flaccianello showcases the depth, finesse, and aging potential of Sangiovese when cultivated in exceptional terroir and handled with meticulous care.

Fontodi’s Chianti Classico and Chianti Classico Gran Selezione are benchmarks for the appellation, offering a balance of fruit, acidity, and tannin that reflects both the grape and the land. In addition to Sangiovese, Fontodi cultivates small amounts of international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, which are used in limited-production wines like Vigna del Sorbo. Each wine in the portfolio is crafted to express the personality of its vineyard origin, with an emphasis on purity, balance, and longevity.

Over the decades, Fontodi has earned a reputation for quality, consistency, and innovation. The estate’s commitment to organic farming, respect for tradition, and openness to experimentation have made it a reference point in Tuscany. The Manetti family’s stewardship has ensured that Fontodi not only honors the rich heritage of Chianti Classico but also continues to push the boundaries of what is possible for Sangiovese and Tuscan wine. Visitors to the estate can experience firsthand the beauty of the vineyards, the state-of-the-art winery, and the passion that goes into every bottle produced at Fontodi.