2023 Tenute Rossetti Poggio Civetta Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany

Tenute Rossetti is a Tuscan family producer with deep roots in the region, crafting wines that balance tradition with an immediately appealing style. Poggio Civetta Chianti Classico comes from the historic hills between Florence and Siena, where altitude, warm Tuscan sunshine and the region’s distinctive galestro-rich soils give Sangiovese its wonderful combination of perfume, acidity and savoury bite.

The 2023 vintage produced beautifully expressive fruit, with the elevated vineyards of Chianti Classico helping preserve freshness through the growing season. Sangiovese is perfectly at home here, developing ripe cherry flavours without losing the lively acidity and slightly rustic tannin that make proper Chianti so irresistible with food.

Bright ruby in the glass, the nose opens with sour cherry, redcurrant and wild strawberry, followed by violet, dried oregano and a little orange peel. With air come hints of tobacco leaf, warm terracotta and cracked pepper. The palate is juicy and energetic, with crunchy red fruit wrapped in fine, slightly dusty tannins. Cherry skin, dried herbs and earthy spice build through the middle before a fresh, savoury finish.

This bottle practically demands Italian food: pappardelle with wild boar ragù, bistecca alla Fiorentina, fennel-flecked pork sausages, eggplant parmigiana or a proper wood-fired pizza with salami and mushrooms. For maximum Tuscan simplicity, give it pecorino, finocchiona and warm crusty bread and call lunch sorted.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2033.