Super-ripe red cherries, plums, cloves, licorice and mint wrap around the palate as the 2009 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo. A flashy, voluptuous wine, the 2009 reflects the overt, flashy style of the year in spades. The 2009 is a relatively rich, intense Sorbo, but all the elements are in place. Here, too, the tannin is quite a bit more finessed than in the Flaccianello. Even with all of its ripeness and volume, the 2009 maintains gorgeous minerality and vibrancy. A rich, resonant finish rounds things out in style. Drink: 2019 - 2029

Big and rich style with velvety tannins and lots of berry, chocolate and vanilla character. Juicy wine. Always one of the best riserva Chiantis out there. Great now but even better with a little more bottle age. Try in 2014.

The 2009 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo is impressive. The overtness of the year is nicely balanced by the inherent freshness and acidity of Sangiovese. Hints of tobacco, cedar, licorice and spices are layered into the insistent finish. This is a terrific showing. I very much like the energy, length and focus of the fruit. I can’t wait to see how this develops over the coming years. The Vigna del Sorbo is a bit overlooked in the Fontodi stable, but it is often striking, especially after a few years in bottle. This historic vineyard is planted to 90% Sangiovese and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. The Sorbo has an element of freshness that the Flaccianello doesn’t have. I will not be surprised if over time it enjoys a more gradual and finessed evolution in bottle. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2027. (Antonio Galloni)