Tuscany, Italy
Fontodi
Champion of the Conca d’Oro
Est. 1968
About the Estate
Fontodi is the champion of Sangiovese in Chianti Classico, producing wines from what many consider the finest terroir in the appellation: the Conca d'Oro amphitheater of Panzano. The Manetti family, famous for their terracotta business, bought the rundown Fontodi estate in 1968. Giovanni Manetti took charge in 1979 and, at barely 20 years old, produced the first vintage of Flaccianello in 1981, a 100% Sangiovese that helped define the Super Tuscan movement. Unlike many Super Tuscans of the era, Flaccianello never relied on international varieties. The estate converted to organic farming in 1990 (certified 2008) and has continued to refine its range with cru selections including Vigna del Sorbo. Today Fontodi stands as one of the most consistent producers of top-tier Italian red wine.
Grape Varieties
Sangiovese (primary), with small plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah
Heritage & Milestones
A journey through time, celebrating the moments that defined our legacy
Manetti Family Enters Wine
The Manetti family, traditionally terracotta producers, purchase the Fontodi estate in Panzano in 1968. They begin restoring the neglected vineyards in Chianti’s Conca d’Oro, marking Fontodi’s modern rebirth
Flaccianello Launched
Fontodi releases the first vintage of Flaccianello della Pieve in 1981 – an ambitious 100% Sangiovese Super-Tuscan (guided by famed consultant Franco Bernabei) that showcases the potential of pure Sangiovese from their best vines
Certified Organic
After decades of sustainable practices, Fontodi’s vineyards achieve official organic certification with the 2008 harvest. (The estate had farmed organically since about 1990.) This further elevates grape quality and solidifies Fontodi’s reputation for eco-conscious winemaking
Manetti Family Enters Wine
The Manetti family, traditionally terracotta producers, purchase the Fontodi estate in Panzano in 1968. They begin restoring the neglected vineyards in Chianti’s Conca d’Oro, marking Fontodi’s modern rebirth
Flaccianello Launched
Fontodi releases the first vintage of Flaccianello della Pieve in 1981 – an ambitious 100% Sangiovese Super-Tuscan (guided by famed consultant Franco Bernabei) that showcases the potential of pure Sangiovese from their best vines
Certified Organic
After decades of sustainable practices, Fontodi’s vineyards achieve official organic certification with the 2008 harvest. (The estate had farmed organically since about 1990.) This further elevates grape quality and solidifies Fontodi’s reputation for eco-conscious winemaking
Vineyard Location
Tuscany, Italy
Terroir
All estate vineyards sit in the Conca d'Oro (Golden Shell) of Panzano, a natural south-facing amphitheater at 350-500 metres altitude. The combination of marl-schist (galestro) and clay soils, significant diurnal temperature variation, and the sheltered south-facing aspect creates ideal conditions for Sangiovese. 90 hectares under vine, organically farmed since 1990 and certified since 2008.
Available Wines
Discover our curated selection from Fontodi
