Castellare di Castellina, Toscana IGT, I Sodi di S. Niccolo

About Castellare di Castellina

Castellare di Castellina is a historic wine estate located in the heart of Chianti Classico, Tuscany, established in 1968 through the consolidation of five farms. The estate covers 80 hectares, with 33 hectares dedicated to vineyards and 20 to olive groves, set on the hillsides of Castellina in Chianti at an altitude ranging from 370 to 430 meters above sea level. The unique terroir, characterized by limestone soils with a good presence of galestro and alberese, provides ideal conditions for cultivating native grape varieties, particularly Sangioveto (Sangiovese) and Canaiolo, which form the backbone of their wines.

Castellare di Castellina is committed to respecting tradition while embracing innovation. The estate was among the first in Italy to reduce yields per hectare in pursuit of higher quality and to use barriques for aging, guided by the expertise of the late winemaker Émile Peynaud. The estate’s philosophy centers on the preservation of native grape varieties and sustainable viticulture; no herbicides or chemical fertilizers are used, and the vineyards are managed with minimal environmental impact to protect biodiversity.

The estate produces a range of wines, with its flagship being the Chianti Classico, crafted from 95% Sangioveto and 5% Canaiolo. This wine exemplifies the elegance and complexity of the region, offering aromas of red fruit, floral notes, and a balanced palate with fine tannins. The Chianti Classico Riserva, made from a selection of the best grapes and aged in French oak, delivers greater depth and longevity. Another standout is I Sodi di San Niccolò, a prestigious Super Tuscan that blends Sangioveto and Malvasia Nera, recognized internationally for its structure, finesse, and aging potential. The estate also produces other labels such as Poggio ai Merli (100% Merlot), Coniale (100% Cabernet Sauvignon), and several white and rosé wines, each reflecting the estate’s dedication to expressing the character of its terroir.

Castellare di Castellina’s labels are distinctive for their illustrations of endangered bird species, a nod to the estate’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its role in protecting local wildlife. This theme underscores their approach to viticulture, which emphasizes harmony with nature and the preservation of the surrounding ecosystem.

The estate’s cellar combines tradition and technology, with vinification taking place in stainless steel and aging in a mix of French oak barriques and larger casks, depending on the wine. This careful approach ensures the wines retain their varietal purity and regional identity. The estate welcomes visitors for guided tours and tastings, offering an immersive experience into the winemaking process, the history of Castellare, and the beauty of the Chianti countryside.

Castellare di Castellina has received numerous accolades from international wine critics and publications, attesting to the consistent quality and distinctive character of its wines. The estate is part of the Domini Castellare di Castellina group, which also includes Rocca di Frassinello in the Maremma and Feudi del Pisciotto in Sicily, further extending its philosophy and expertise across Italy.

In summary, Castellare di Castellina stands out for its dedication to native varietals, sustainable practices, and a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation, producing wines that capture the essence of Chianti Classico and the broader Tuscan landscape.