Montesodi

A section of the vineyards on the estate, the Montesodi vineyard, is bottled separately. This could be the most powerful Chianti produced. The first time we tasted this, the 1995 vintage from barrel, we could not believe it was Sangiovese. It was so dark in color and so rich in texture, we thought it was Cabernet. Montesodi spends 24 months in one year old oak barrels, then 6 months in the bottle.

Tasting Notes Montesodi appears a dense but luminous ruby. Density too is notable on the nose, with concentrated essences of wild blackberry, blueberry, India ink, and roasted espresso, lifted by notes of pungent balsam and eucalyptus. Smooth, supple tannins are already well-integrated, and add to the warm, velvet mouthfeel. A judicious alcohol and crisp acidity are in mutual balance. Pleasant hints of vanilla and espresso coffee enrich a clean-edged, lean finish. Learn more at www.frescobaldi.it

Food Pairing Suggestions Roast or grilled lamb, game birds (pheasant), pan-fried beef. Browse our Italian recipe collection by wine pairing

Ratings & Reviews 2007 Vintage 92 points - Wine Spectator, October 31, 2010

2006 Vintage 92 points - Wine Spectator, October 31, 2009

2005 Vintage 90 points - Wine Spectator, October 31, 2007 89 points - Wine Advocate #177, June 2008

2004 Vintage 92 points - Wine Advocate #171, June 2007 91 points - Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, July/August 2007 91 points - Wine Spectator, October 31, 2006 92 points - Wine Enthusiast Magazine, November 1, 2007

2003 Vintage 91 points - Wine Spectator, October 31, 2005

2001 Vintage 93 points / Highly Recommended - Wine Spectator, October 31, 2003 #45 in the Top 100 wines list of 2003 - Wine Spectator, October 31, 2003