2021 Poggio Scalette Il Carbonaione, Tuscany

Complex and attractive aromas of blueberries, cedar, cinnamon stick and potpourri, following through to a full-bodied, concentrated palate with a firm yet velvety tannin frame. Long, deep and focused. A wonderfully perfumed and polished expression of sangiovese. Best after 2025.

95 points James Suckling

Slender and decidedly clear in its sensory profile, it displays notes of lavender, wild violet, black pepper, juniper berries, and marjoram. In the background, Mediterranean citrus fruits define the main scene of great charm and territorial character. Medium-full body, soft, fine-grained tannins, and a graceful and flavorful finish that enhances from the mid-palate onward. Infinite in beauty and personality. Drink now or age.

97 points Raffaele Vecchione WinesCritic

Widely regarded as one of Tuscany's great cult wines, Il Carbonaione is the flagship of Poggio Scalette and a benchmark for single vineyard Sangiovese. Produced from old vines planted high in the hills of Ruffoli near Greve in Chianti, the wine has earned international acclaim for its purity, depth and unwavering expression of terroir. Crafted with minimal intervention, it is a compelling reminder of just how profound Sangiovese can be.

The outstanding 2021 vintage delivered fruit of exceptional concentration, freshness and balance. The estate's galestro rich soils and elevated vineyards produced beautifully expressive Sangiovese, while careful élevage preserved the vineyard's distinctive character and refined structure. The result is a wine of remarkable harmony, precision and longevity.

Deep ruby with garnet highlights, the bouquet is captivatingly layered with Morello cherry, wild raspberry and plum intertwined with violets, dried herbs and fine cedar. As the wine unfolds, notes of tobacco leaf, leather, crushed stone and warm spice emerge, adding depth and classic Tuscan complexity. The palate is beautifully sculpted, revealing vibrant red fruits framed by silky tannins, lively acidity and a finely etched mineral backbone. Powerful yet graceful, the finish is exceptionally long, echoing with savoury spice, floral perfume and unmistakable Sangiovese purity.

A magnificent partner for bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù, roast lamb, porcini mushroom pasta or aged Pecorino Toscano. Already superb with a generous decant, this iconic Tuscan red has the pedigree and balance to reward collectors for decades.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2048.