Poderi Castellare di Castellina is a Tuscan wine estate located in the heart of the Chianti Classico area, close to the village of Castellina. It was formed in 1968 by the consolidation of five farms. Since the last 70’s, the estate has belonged to Paolo Panerai who also owns Feudi del Pisciotto, Gurra di Mare in Sicily, and a joint venture with Domaines Barons de Rothschild in Maremma called Rocca di Frassinello.

Castellare has roughly 33 hectares of vineyards, 12 hectares of olive-groves, 15 hectares of mixed cultivation, and also forest. Vine age is between 5 and 30 years. Ideal exposure to the sun, good drainage, a mixed ground of calcareous marls, galestro and little clay give both red and white wines structure and depth for a long aging in bottle.

In addition to the flagship wine, I Sodi di San Niccolo, the estate produces Chianti Classicos, Riservas, varietal and white wines.

The masterpiece of Castellare, I Sodi di San Niccolo, has twice placed in the top 100 of Wine Spectator, and has been awarded “Three Glasses” by Il Gambero Rosso.

I Sodi di San Niccolo is produced solely with native varieties: 85-90% of Sangioveto and 10-15% of Malvasia Nera, I Sodi comes from the two best crus of the farm.

The word "I Sodi" was used by the Tuscan farmers to describe those grounds which had to be processed by hand, being too hard (in fact firm) or too steep to allow for the employment of the horses, unlike the "fields" that make the grounds more easily cultivable.

Introducing the 2015 Castellare di Castellina I Sodi di San Niccolo Vino da Tavola, a remarkable red wine hailing from the renowned Tuscany region of Italy. This exquisite wine, made from a proprietary blend of Sangioveto and Malvasia Nera, is a true testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the Castellare di Castellina winery.

In the glass, this wine exhibits a deep and alluring ruby red color, hinting at the rich and complex flavors that await. With an alcohol percentage of 14.0%, it promises a well-rounded and robust drinking experience.

Upon first approach, the nose is greeted with an explosive fruit bouquet, dominated by dark cherries and plums. However, a closer examination reveals an array of fresh fragrances, including spearmint, eucalyptus, forest floor, and boysenberries. This aromatic symphony sets the stage for the pure and focused palate that follows.

The palate of the 2015 Castellare di Castellina I Sodi di San Niccolo is a masterpiece of balance and depth. The driven acidity provides a welcome counterpoint to the layers of rich, dark fruit, creating a harmonious and pleasurable tasting experience. The wine's structure is muscular, yet it remains remarkably long on the finish.

Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded this wine an impressive score of 96, praising its explosive fruit, pure palate, and layers of rich, dark fruit. Wine Spectator also lauded this wine, giving it a score of 93 and describing it as broad and deep, with a beam of black cherry at its core.

The 2015 I Sodi di S. Niccolò is a beautifully executed expression of Sangioveto and Malvasia Nera. Its generous and exuberant fruit is complemented by notes of white pepper, spice, wild rose, and toasted anise seed. The finish is soft and yielding, with sweet tannins that further enhance the overall experience.

With only 2,500 cases made and 800 cases imported, this wine is a true gem that should not be missed. It is recommended to cellar this wine until 2022 to fully appreciate its potential, but for those who can't wait, it can be enjoyed now with a roasted pheasant or other hearty dishes.

In conclusion, the 2015 Castellare di Castellina I Sodi di San Niccolo Vino da Tavola is an exceptional red wine that showcases the best of Tuscan winemaking. Its depth, complexity, and balance make it a true delight for the senses, and its rave reviews from esteemed critics only further solidify its status as a must-try wine.