1990 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo
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Tasting notes
The 1990 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo bursts from the glass with huge fruit. Still remarkably deep and powerful, the 1990 wraps around the palate with layers of sweet, perfumed fruit and dazzling texture. This seamless, voluptuous wine captures the essence of one of the all-time great vintages in Tuscany. Even after all these years, the 1990 remains one of the greatest Sorbos ever made. This is a remarkable achievement and an early masterpiece from proprietor Giovanni Manetti and longtime winemaker Franco Bernabei. Best of all, well-stored bottles will continue to thrill readers for at least another decade. Wow!
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
An old-wine nose. A bit dry. Light and dusty. A bit tart – food please! Very, very drying finish. Hurry! (JR)
The three new releases from Fontodi, one of the stars of Tuscany, all possess distinctive personalities. My favorite is the saturated, dark-colored 1990 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo, a wine of considerable richness, a spicy, leathery, cedary nose and flavors, medium to full body, moderate tannin, and adequate acidity. Although tightly knit, backward, and unevolved, it displays loads of promise. With 1-2 additional years of cellaring it may merit an outstanding rating. It is a rich, harmonious Chianti for drinking over the next 10-12 years. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY.
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.