2023 Castellare di Castellina Il Poggiale Riserva Chianti Classico, Tuscany

Castellare di Castellina is one of Chianti Classico's great modern estates, founded in 1977 through the union of several historic vineyard holdings in the heart of Castellina in Chianti. The winery quickly gained a reputation for championing traditional Tuscan varieties and producing wines that balance authenticity with refinement. Today, Castellare remains a benchmark producer, with Il Poggiale standing as one of its most celebrated wines, a Chianti Classico Riserva that consistently ranks among Tuscany's finest expressions of Sangiovese.

The vineyards sit on the rolling hills of Castellina, where limestone rich galestro soils and elevated sites provide ideal conditions for slow, even ripening. Il Poggiale is sourced from the estate's finest parcels and produced only from fruit capable of supporting extended ageing. The outstanding 2023 vintage has delivered a wine of concentration, elegance and remarkable balance, showcasing both the quality of the site and the meticulous work in the vineyard and cellar.

Deep ruby red with youthful crimson highlights, the bouquet is intensely aromatic, revealing layers of black cherry, wild berry and plum alongside notes of violet, dried herbs and sweet spice. As the wine opens, nuances of cedar, tobacco leaf and earthy complexity emerge, adding depth and sophistication. The palate is beautifully structured, combining vibrant dark and red fruits with savoury Tuscan character. Fine grained tannins and fresh acidity provide drive and longevity, while hints of liquorice, leather and spice carry through a long, polished finish.

This is a magnificent partner for bistecca alla Fiorentina, slow cooked wild boar ragù, rosemary roasted lamb, porcini mushroom pappardelle or aged Pecorino Toscano. While already highly expressive, the wine has the pedigree to evolve gracefully for fifteen years or more, developing further layers of complexity and savoury nuance.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2040.