Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo Fontodi 2004 (1.5L)

95 Points, Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate: "The 2004 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo is an explosive wine endowed with a layered, sumptuous expression of sweet dark fruit. Menthol, licorice and floral overtones develop in the glass, adding further complexity. This stunningly beautiful wine offers tremendous persistence yet it will require patience as its structural components are formidable. I tasted the Vigna del Sorbo several times, including alongside Felsina's Riserva Rancia, consulting oenologist Franco Bernabei's other top-notch Riserva. Both wines were exceptional, but the Vigna del Sorbo showed a touch more freshness typical of wines from Panzano. Simply put, 2004 is a phenomenal vintage for this wine." 6/08

94 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2004 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo is just starting to show early signs of tertiary notes, but only in its bouquet, as the wine remains rich, full-bodied and ample on the palate. New leather, licorice, menthol, red cherries and smoke are all layered into the tannic finish. The 2004 was an exceptional wine when it was made, but it has since been surpassed, a testament to proprietor Giovanni Manetti's drive, ambition and skill. Still, my sense is that the 2004 may be going through a bit of a closed phase. I am tempted to let bottles sit for another year or two." 2/14

90 Points, JS, Wine Spectator: "Needs air to coax out the superrich vein of black cherry and ripe plum fruit, with hints of fresh earth and herbs. Full-bodied, with a supersilky texture that firms up the finish. There's lots of new oak, but this is well-constructed. Drink now. 2,500 cases made." 10/08

93 Points, Wine Enthusiast: "This is an extremely elegant and beautiful wine that is tight and compact while being intense and generous at the same time. It offers luscious notes of ripe cherry, blueberry fruit and piquant highlights that recall Asian spices (10% Cabernet is added to the blend). It has a gorgeous mouthfeel, bright fruit flavors and silky tannins." 9/08