Castellare di Castellina : Chianti Classico 2022

Just west of the town of Castellina, the estate’s 33 hectares of vineyards are interspersed with olive groves and forest. From a blend of southeast-facing plots, the annata is usually quite a fragrant specimen; however, this 2022 edition hints furtively at mint and tea leaf. It gains a bit of precision as it sits in the glass, bringing in sunbaked lavender. Sweet vanilla nuances suffuse the bright and breezy palate. Though modest, the tannins are assertively dry on the finish.

A juicy, velvety and seductive red with cherries, wild currants and bay leaves. Medium-bodied with fine tannins. Silky core of juicy berries at the center and a comforting, mellow finish with some crunchy character. Drink now.

Castellina. 95% Sangiovese, 5% Canaiolo. Big sour-cherry and spice nose with notes of tobacco leaf. Supple, tangy and generous on the palate, with lots of coating tannins on the finish. Ready now. (WS)

Bright ruby with a fine rim. Inviting bouquet of ripe plums and cherries, with a hint of violets and cayenne pepper. Invigorating acidity on the palate, compact, fine tannins, dense fruit core, very harmonious.