2023 Castellare di Castellina Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany

Castellare di Castellina Chianti Classico DOCG is a beautifully traditional, elegantly structured and deeply authentic Sangiovese from one of Tuscany’s most respected estates. Castellare sits in the heart of Castellina, surrounded by steep, sun drenched hillsides rich in galestro and alberese, the classic limestone and shale soils that define the finest Chianti Classico. These vineyards are farmed without herbicides or pesticides, and each vintage the estate honours local birdlife by featuring a different endangered species on the label. The philosophy is simple and unwavering: preserve nature, respect tradition, and let Sangiovese speak with purity and precision.

The wine is crafted from Sangiovese with a small addition of native Canaiolo, all hand harvested from low yielding vines. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel with long, gentle maceration to draw out colour and fine tannin. Maturation follows in French oak barrels, mostly used, striking a perfect balance between structure and elegance, never overwhelming the fruit. The style is classic Castellina: lifted aromatics, savoury tension, red fruited clarity and beautiful length.

Aromas rise with cherry, red plum and wild berries, joined by rose petal, violet, dried herbs, sweet earth and a subtle tobacco note. As the wine opens, nuances of blood orange, cedar, spice and crushed stone emerge, carrying the unmistakable imprint of Chianti’s limestone hills.

The palate is bright, refined and quietly powerful. Juicy red cherries and plum flow across taut, chalk edged tannins, guided by zesty Sangiovese acidity. Flavours of sour cherry, pomegranate, raspberry, dried herbs and savoury earth unfold slowly, building a harmonious interplay of fruit, minerality and spice. The finish is long, clean and classically dry with lingering red fruit and a gentle bitter cherry note. It will evolve gracefully for eight to ten years, gaining deeper earthy, leathery nuance.

This wine shines with Tuscan favourites: bistecca alla Fiorentina, roast pork with herbs, tomato based pasta, grilled vegetables, mushroom ragù, pecorino, salumi, pizza or slow cooked lamb. A slight chill enhances the brightness.