2004 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo
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Tasting notes
The 2004 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo is just starting to show early signs of tertiary notes, but only in its bouquet, as the wine remains rich, full-bodied and ample on the palate. New leather, licorice, menthol, red cherries and smoke are all layered into the tannic finish. The 2004 was an exceptional wine when it was made, but it has since been surpassed, a testament to proprietor Giovanni Manetti's drive, ambition and skill. Still, my sense is that the 2004 may be going through a bit of a closed phase. I am tempted to let bottles sit for another year or two.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
The 2004 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo is an explosive wine endowed with a layered, sumptuous expression of sweet dark fruit. Menthol, licorice and floral overtones develop in the glass, adding further complexity. This stunningly beautiful wine offers tremendous persistence yet it will require patience as its structural components are formidable. I tasted the Vigna del Sorbo several times, including alongside Felsina’s Riserva Rancia, consulting oenologist Franco Bernabei’s other top-notch Riserva. Both wines were exceptional, but the Vigna del Sorbo showed a touch more freshness typical of wines from Panzano. Simply put, 2004 is a phenomenal vintage for this wine. Vigna del Sorbo is made from 80% Sangiovese and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon which was grafted onto the rootstocks of the white varieties that were previously planted in the vineyard. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2024. This is another set of top-notch releases from proprietor Giovanni Manetti and long-time consulting oenologist Franco Bernabei. Unfortunately as we go to press the 2006 Chianti Classico is still in barrel awaiting final assembling and bottling. I tasted various lots in barrel, though, and the wine is very promising. I will add a tasting note to our website, www.erobertparker.com as soon as I have an opportunity to taste the finished wine. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907
Oak, smoke, slight vegetal (but not unripe) hints. Morello cherry, parmesan cheese and high, grippy tannin. A definite prospect for the future. Pure fresh cherry and spice – very good. (RH)
90% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. 30,000 bottles produced. Fermented separately in stainless steel tanks for 18 days. AgediIn barriques for 18 months and 12 months in bottle. Dense crimson. Comfortable, well-integrated nose. Very solid with lots of hidden depths. Still pretty chewy but this should not disappoint. Eloquently Tuscan. Super tang. No sweetness. Herbal notes. (JR)
About the producer
Based just outside Panzano-in-Chianti, Chianti Classico estate Fontodi was acquired by the Manettis in 1968, a family which has established its modern reputation. Today the leading property is best known for its Flaccianello delle Pieve, the pure Sangiovese Super Tuscan first made in 1981.