"I Sodi di San Niccolò" Toscana IGT 2020

Today we are in the heart of the Chianti Classico region, in Castellina. This is the home of I Sodi di San Niccolò, the flagship wine of Castellare di Castellina. The name ‘Sodi’ comes from the Tuscan word used to indicate difficult terrain, while ‘San Niccolò’ refers to the 14th century church located on the company's property. This wine is one of the first expressions of the Supertuscan, even though it is made exclusively with native vines. Specifically, Sangiovese, which on the estate is called by the traditional name of ‘Sangioveto’, and Malvasia Nera. The percentages vary between 85 and 90% for Sangiovese, and between 10 and 15% for Malvasia. The vineyards are located at an altitude of 350-400 metres above sea level, planted in calcareous soil that gives the wine a marked minerality. The yield is limited to 40-45 quintals per hectare, guaranteeing a high quality of grapes. Vinification takes place in stainless steel, with malolactic fermentation carried out. Subsequently, the wine ages for 24-30 months in barriques, 50% of which are new, and is refined for a further 12 months in the bottle before being put on the market. It has an intense ruby red colour. It offers a highly concentrated bouquet, with notes of ripe red fruit, jam, spices, vanilla and liquorice. In the mouth it is characterised by a dense and elegant texture, supported by the acidity of Sangiovese, with sweet tannins and a long and persistent finish. I Sodi di San Niccolò is a wine for long ageing, capable of evolving for decades in the cellar. On the table it goes perfectly with salami and flavoursome meats, richly succulent dishes and mature cheeses.