I Sodi di San Niccolò 2018 Toscana IGT - Castellare di Castellina

I Sodi di San Niccolò 2018 – Castellare di Castellina

I Sodi di San Niccolò is the flagship of Castellare di Castellina, Paolo Panerai's estate in the heart of Chianti Classico, recognisable by its labels featuring a small bird, a symbol of its commitment to environmentally respectful farming. First made in 1977, it was one of the earliest Super Tuscans built on native grapes. In Tuscan farming language "sodi" are plots too hard and steep for ox-drawn ploughs; San Niccolò is the 14th-century chapel around which the best vineyards lie.

The blend combines Sangioveto, the local biotype of Sangiovese, with a small share of Malvasia Nera, from vineyards at 350 to 400 metres on stony soils. After fermentation in stainless steel the wine ages for about two years in barriques, partly new, and then in bottle.

2018, a cooler and less extreme vintage than the ones before it, gave a Sodi of real finesse: cherry, plum, berries, spice, tobacco and silky tannins, with the acid drive typical of Castellina Sangiovese. With game, T-bone steak or aged pecorino.

At a glance: Sangioveto 85%, Malvasia nera 15% · 14% ABV · 0.75 l · Castellare di Castellina, Castellina in Chianti (SI)