Fontodi

History

Fontodi, a renowned winery in Chianti Classico, has a rich history dating back to 1968 when it was purchased by Dino Manetti. The estate has been associated with the Manetti family for centuries, primarily known for producing terracotta tiles, which were used in notable projects like the restoration of Florence's cathedral dome and the Uffizi gallery flooring. The family's transition into winemaking began with the purchase of Fontodi, which was then a dilapidated property.

In 1980, the entire Manetti family moved to the property, with the younger generation taking charge of the vineyards and cellar under the close supervision of their father and uncle. This marked a significant turning point for Fontodi, as it began to focus on producing high-quality wines. The winery's flagship wine, Flaccianello della Pieve, was introduced in 1981, a pure Sangiovese that was initially sold as table wine due to labeling restrictions.

Under the guidance of winemaker Franco Bernabei and later Giovanni Manetti, Fontodi has evolved into a certified organic estate with a strong commitment to sustainability and the integrity of the Sangiovese grape. The estate's unique galestro soil and south-facing vineyards contribute to the exceptional quality of its wines, which are now recognized globally for their elegance and character[1][2][4].

Terroir

Fontodi is situated in the heart of Chianti Classico, specifically in the valley known as the "Conca d'Oro" (the golden shell) south of Panzano. This unique terroir is characterized by its amphitheater shape, which contributes to a marked diurnal temperature variation. The high elevation and south-facing vineyards allow for long, warm summer days and cold nights, resulting in fully ripe grapes with excellent acidity and structure.

The soils in this region are predominantly calcareous clay and schist, which are optimal for producing balanced Sangiovese. The calcareous soils provide excellent drainage, encouraging the vines to put down deep roots and contributing to the wine's mineral character. This combination of high altitude, unique soil composition, and favorable microclimate makes Fontodi's terroir particularly well-suited for producing high-quality, terroir-driven wines.