2012 San Fabiano Calcinaia Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany

San Fabiano Calcinaia is a historic estate in the heart of Chianti Classico, near Castellina in Chianti, where the Poggiali family has been producing wines since the early 1980s. Known for its commitment to organic viticulture and traditional Tuscan varieties, the estate crafts Sangiovese with a wonderful balance of fruit, savoury character and regional personality. The 2012 is now a mature example, with more than a decade of bottle age adding complexity to its classic Chianti character.

The warm, dry 2012 growing season produced concentrated Sangiovese with ripe fruit and firm structure. Time in the cellar has softened the tannins and encouraged the earthy, savoury qualities that make mature Chianti Classico such a pleasure at the table.

Medium garnet red with a brick coloured rim. Dried cherry, red plum and cranberry mingle with leather, tobacco leaf, cedar and a hint of balsamic herbs. The palate is supple and savoury, with mellow red fruit, fine resolved tannins and refreshing acidity. Notes of dried oregano, forest floor and gentle spice carry through a lingering, earthy finish.

A lovely wine for a leisurely Italian dinner. Try it with pappardelle and wild boar ragù, porcini and chestnut polenta, or roasted eggplant with tomato, basil and aged Pecorino. Its mature savoury character would also be excellent with slow cooked lamb and rosemary.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2028, depending on storage history. At this age, careful cellaring is important, and a well preserved bottle should be particularly enjoyable now