1998 Flaccianello della Pieve
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
Following on the heels of the excellent 1997 vintage, the 1998 Flaccianello della Pieve has greater difficulty leaving its mark. This was a warm growing season, and although the fruit marches forward in steady and consistent strides, the wine lacks the overall complexity and depth of other vintages. The bouquet is broad and long, showing one-dimensional tones of dried cassis, smoke and spice. The mouthfeel is subdued and flat. I prefer the bookend 1997 and 1999 vintages to the 1998 vintage sandwiched in between.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 1998 Flaccianello della Pieve reveals an exotic, intriguing bouquet redolent of flowers, spices and mint. This is one of the more delicate Flaccianellos in this tasting. Everything simply works. Raspberries, flowers, mint and spices are all woven into the highly expressive finish. The 1998 can be enjoyed today, but it also has the pedigree to age well for a number of years.
The 1998 Flaccianello della Pieve reveals an exotic, intriguing bouquet redolent of flowers, spices and mint. This is one of the more delicate Flaccianellos in this tasting. Everything simply works. Raspberries, flowers, mint and spices are all woven into the highly expressive finish. The 1998 can be enjoyed today, but it also has the pedigree to age well for a number of years. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2023. Jun 2012, www.robertparker.com
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.