Concerto di Fonterutoli 2020: A Symphony of Tuscan Excellence
Introduction
Concerto di Fonterutoli is an iconic red wine from the heart of Tuscany, crafted by the Mazzei family at their historic Castello di Fonterutoli estate. This Super Tuscan blend exemplifies the fusion of tradition and innovation, bringing together Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes to create a wine that is both powerful and elegant. With its rich history, meticulous winemaking process, and exceptional quality, Concerto di Fonterutoli is a true expression of Tuscan terroir and craftsmanship.
History and Legacy of Concerto di Fonterutoli
The Mazzei family has been producing wine in Tuscany since the 14th century, making them one of the oldest winemaking families in Italy. Castello di Fonterutoli, located in the Chianti Classico region, has been the family’s home since 1435. The estate has long been recognized for its exceptional vineyards, which benefit from ideal soil and climate conditions for growing Sangiovese.
Concerto di Fonterutoli was first produced in 1981 as a response to the growing interest in Super Tuscan wines. The name “Concerto” reflects the harmony between the traditional Sangiovese grape and the international Cabernet Sauvignon, symbolizing the blend of old and new that characterizes this wine. Over the years, Concerto di Fonterutoli has become a benchmark for quality in Tuscany, earning acclaim for its depth, complexity, and aging potential.
Vineyard and Terroir
The vineyards of Castello di Fonterutoli are situated at an elevation of 200 to 500 meters above sea level, where the combination of limestone-rich soils, abundant sunlight, and cool breezes creates an ideal environment for viticulture. The Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes used in Concerto di Fonterutoli are grown in carefully selected plots that bring out the best characteristics of each variety.
Sangiovese thrives in these conditions, developing intense flavors and vibrant acidity, while Cabernet Sauvignon adds structure, depth, and complexity to the blend. The vineyard’s meticulous management, including sustainable farming practices and hand-harvesting, ensures that only the finest grapes are used in the production of Concerto di Fonterutoli.
The winemaking process for Concerto di Fonterutoli is a meticulous one, aimed at capturing the essence of the grapes and the terroir. After harvesting, the grapes undergo a rigorous selection process to ensure that only the best fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, where the wine is allowed to develop its rich color, aromas, and flavors.
The wine is then aged in French oak barrels, with a portion of new oak used to enhance the wine’s complexity and structure. This aging process, which lasts for about 18 months, allows the wine to develop additional layers of flavor, integrating the oak influence while preserving the freshness of the fruit. The final blend is carefully crafted to achieve a perfect balance between the Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon, resulting in a wine that is both powerful and elegant.
Tasting Notes
•Appearance: Concerto di Fonterutoli presents a deep, ruby-red color, with hints of garnet at the rim, reflecting its concentration and aging potential.
•Nose: The aromatic bouquet is complex and inviting, with layers of dark cherries, blackberries, and plums, complemented by notes of tobacco, leather, and spice. Subtle hints of vanilla, cedar, and herbs add depth and sophistication to the aroma.
•Palate: On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and well-structured, with a harmonious balance between fruit, acidity, and tannins. Flavors of ripe red and black fruits dominate, with undertones of dark chocolate, licorice, and earthy minerals. The tannins are firm yet velvety, providing a strong backbone that supports the wine’s long and elegant finish.
•Finish: The finish is long, persistent, and refined, with lingering notes of fruit, spice, and a touch of oak. The wine’s complexity and depth are evident, making it a truly memorable experience for the palate.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Concerto di Fonterutoli is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or fine dining:
•Red Meat: The wine’s robust structure and rich flavors make it an ideal match for grilled steaks, roasted lamb, or braised beef. The tannins in the wine complement the protein in the meat, while the acidity balances the richness of the dish.
•Pasta and Risotto: Enjoy it with hearty pasta dishes like pappardelle with wild boar ragu, or a rich risotto with mushrooms and truffles. The wine’s fruit and spice notes enhance the earthy flavors in these dishes.
•Game: Concerto di Fonterutoli pairs wonderfully with game meats such as venison, duck, or pheasant, where its depth and complexity complement the intense flavors of the meat.
•Cheese: The wine’s balance of fruit and acidity makes it a great companion for aged cheeses like Pecorino, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or a strong blue cheese.
Serving and Aging Potential
To fully appreciate Concerto di Fonterutoli, serve it at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-64°F). Decanting the wine for about an hour before serving is recommended, as this allows the wine to open up and reveal its full aromatic and flavor profile.
Concerto di Fonterutoli has excellent aging potential, with the ability to develop additional complexity and refinement over time. When properly cellared, it can be enjoyed for 10-15 years or more, making it a worthy addition to any wine collection.
Conclusion
Concerto di Fonterutoli is a testament to the Mazzei family’s commitment to quality and their passion for winemaking. This Super Tuscan blend captures the essence of Tuscany, combining tradition with innovation to create a wine that is both powerful and elegant. Whether enjoyed now or aged for future enjoyment, Concerto di Fonterutoli is sure to impress even the most discerning wine enthusiasts.
