#35 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2024

97pts Vinous

The 2020 I Sodi di San Niccolò is fabulous. It is a rare wine that offers power, finesse and translucent energy at once. All the elements are in perfect balance. I can’t remember a Sodi like this one, a wine that is so complete and alluring right out of the gate. Rose petal, lavender, spice, orange peel and sage open first. What impresses me most about the 2020 is the finesse of its tannin, something I have very rarely seen in Sodi at this early stage. Magical. This is remarkable in every way.

97pts Wine Spectator

Packed with ripe, juicy cherry, blackberry, pomegranate and floral aromas and flavors, this red is supple and beautifully integrated. Earth, iron and tobacco accents add detail as this winds down on the lazy, resonant aftertaste, showing terrific energy. Sangioveto and Malvasia Nera. Best from 2026 through 2043.

96pts James Suckling

Deep and dark aromas of Mediterranean herbs, restrained black cherries and stern, earthy complexity. Firm on the palate, with a full body, velvety tannins. crisp acidity and a chalky finish. Long, toasted graphite aftertaste. Sangiovese and malvasia nera. A wine intended for the long haul, yet ready to drink in a year or two.

Winemaker Notes

Intense ruby red in color and with a great olfactory concentration, thanks to the presence of a ripe red fruit that leads to notes of jam, but also spices, vanilla and licorice. In the mouth the wine is characterized by a dense and elegant texture, also supported by the important acidity of the Sangiovese, the tannins are absolutely sweet and the finish is long and of great persistence.

Excellent with cured meats and savory meats, with succulent dishes and mature cheeses. Much appreciated when paired with Tuscan Pecorino and Parmigiano.

Winery Notes

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.