Castellare di Castellina : I Sodi di S. Niccolo 2018

A seductive, fine and complex red wine from Tuscany

The estate

Founded in 1968 following the merger of 5 estates, Castellare di Castellina is one of the finest references among Tuscan wines. Renowned for their quality, the uniqueness of the estate’s wines stems from their exceptional terroir and their label that portrays a bird, which represents the estate's deep respect for surrounding nature.

The vineyard

Located in the heart of the Chianti region, the vineyard spreads across 80 hectares near the small village of Castellina. Poised atop a natural amphitheatre, this terroir, planted on clay-limestone soils, produces full-bodied, powerful wines that promise a great ageing potential.

The vintage

The 2018 vintage was marked by an early budburst, favoured by the mild weather in March and April, followed by a rainy and cool month of May. A mild summer gave way to a month of September where the sunshine and the ideal temperature variations between day and night ensured the optimal development of phenolic compounds combined with a beautiful aromatic intensity.

Vinification and ageing

The grapes are harvested by hand in the first week of October and are rigorously sorted before undergoing destemming. Alcoholic fermentation is carried out in a plot-by-plot manner in steel vats. Maceration for 20 days before carying out racking and malolactic fermentation. The wine is aged for 30 months in barrels (2/3 of which are new). Bottling is followed by an additional 10 months of ageing before being released into the market.

The blend

Sangiovese (85% - locally known as Sangioveto)

Malvasia Nera (15%).

Castellare di Castellina’s Sodi di S. Niccolo 2018: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour

The wine has a beautiful red colour with garnet highlights.

Nose

The nose reveals an intense and complex aromatic palette.

Palate

Dense and very elegant, the palate seduces with its fine tannins, its fruity and spicy aromas as well as its persistent and gourmet finish.

Food and wine pairing

Castellare di Castellina's I Sodi di S. Niccolo 2018 will complement cold meats, main courses or mature cheeses (Tuscan pecorino, parmesan).