Thursday, July 30, 2009

Felsina Fontalloro 2004

While in Tuscany 2 weeks ago, we had a very enjoyable visit to the Felsina winery located just outside of Siena. We were welcomed by their staff who shared the history of the family owned winery and then poured their outstanding wines, along with some wonderful olive oils. The 2004 Fontalloro was our favorite. This ruby red colored Chianti is made from 100% Sangiovese grapes, but is not a Galo Nero (black rooster seal) because some of the grapes were grown outside the Chianti Classico region. It opens with a spicy cherrys and raisin aroma along with a hint of tobacco. On the palate, there was an abundance of raspberry flavor along with wonderful earthiness and mild spices and a touch of oak. This medium-bodied Chianti has extremely smooth silky tannins and would pair nicely with grilled meats or most pasta dishes. It was aged in barriques for 18 months. This is a MUST buy!! It set the bar for other Chianti's. Since we could not fly it home, we have stored some in the family wine cellar in Switzerland for future visits. It retails for about $35. Steven Tanzer's International Wine Cellar and Robert Parker's Wine Advocate rated this vintage 94 points. Wine Spectator gave a 91 point rating. Be sure to stop at this winery if you are in Tuscany. You could cellar this for another 5-8 years and it will be incredible.

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