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.

Castellare’s Il Poggiale Riserva is a blend of 90% Sangioveto, 5% Canaiolo, 5% Ciliegiolo from a high-elevation, low-yielding single vineyard with an average vine age of 25+ years. After fermenting in stainless steel, the wine ages for 12 to 18 months in oak barrels, half of which are new, and finally an additional year in bottle.

A testament to the huge potential of the relatively unknown Sangioveto variety, the wine is both elegant and rich, with terrific cellaring potential.

The 2016 Castellare di Castellina Chianti Classico Riserva Il Poggiale is a remarkable red wine that showcases the best qualities of Sangiovese from the Chianti region of Tuscany, Italy. With its elegant and bright character, this wine is a true embodiment of the region's winemaking traditions.

In the glass, this wine presents a deep, ruby red color that is both enticing and visually pleasing. The aromas that waft from the glass are a delightful combination of juicy cherry, strawberry, and floral notes. There is also an earthy undertone that adds complexity and depth to the bouquet. On the palate, the wine exhibits a succulent and fruit-forward profile, with the sweet fruit flavors persisting alongside a backbone of dry tannins. The balance between fruitiness and tannic structure is exquisite, making this wine a pleasure to drink.

Crafted from a blend of Sangioveto, Canaiolo, and Ciliegiolo grapes, the 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva Il Poggiale is a testament to the winemaker's skill and dedication. This wine has been aged in barriques for 18 months, allowing it to develop immense depth and dimension. The result is a wine that offers a generous array of flavors and aromas, including cherry confit, dried blackberry, spice, leather, and baked terracotta.

With a score of 92 points from Wine Spectator, 94 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, and 94 points from James Suckling, it is clear that this wine has captured the attention and admiration of wine critics. It is recommended to enjoy this wine from 2021 through 2035, as it will continue to evolve and develop in the bottle.

The 2016 Castellare di Castellina Chianti Classico Riserva Il Poggiale is a wine that demands attention and appreciation. Its intense nose, chewy tannins, and long finish make it a perfect pairing for a variety of dishes, particularly aged T-bone steak. This wine is a true gem from the Chianti region and a testament to the quality and craftsmanship of Castellare di Castellina.