Castellare di Castellina, Chianti Classico Kosher, 2019
Castellare di Castellina, Chianti Classico Kosher, 2019
- 75cl
- 13%
- Red Still
- Canaiolo, Sangiovese
- Kosher
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Optimal drinking window: 2026 - 2032
About Castellare di Castellina, Chianti Classico Kosher, 2019
This is a wonderfully pure and expressive Chianti Classico - bright cherry and red plum aromas lifted by violets and a gentle herbal note, underpinned by subtle spice and soft earthiness. On the palate it’s medium-bodied, lively and harmonious, with fine tannins and a fresh, food-friendly finish that speaks of the stony Galestro soils of Castellina.
Castellare di Castellina was born of the union of four estates (Castellare, Caselle, San Niccolò and Le Case) on the initiative of Paolo Panerai, with the aim of producing wine of the best possible quality. This was in the 1970s, when the so-called Renaissance of Italian wine had begun. Castellare has long been known for its dedication to biodiversity (every label features a different endangered bird) and its commitment to traditional Tuscan winemaking with a refined, modern touch. This kosher bottling is a natural extension of the estate’s philosophy: wines of authenticity and sense of place, made to be shared.
Currently showing its primary fruit beautifully with bright cherry and plum flavours at their peak. Over the next 2-3 years, expect the herbal and earthy elements to integrate further whilst the tannins soften completely. Secondary complexity of leather and dried herbs will emerge around 2028-2030, when the wine reaches full maturity. Beyond 2032, the fruit may begin to fade though the mineral backbone will keep it interesting for purists.
What the critics say:
"Aromas of redcurrants, raspberries, pine and cedar. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm, chewy tannins and bright acidity. Juicy and precise on the palate with good structure and a flavorful finish."
Tasting Notes
AppearanceBright ruby with garnet highlights, medium intensity and clarity.
NoseLifted aromas of bright cherry and red plum dominate, with violet florals adding elegance. Gentle herbal notes of Mediterranean scrub emerge, along with subtle spice and earthy undertones that speak of the Galestro soils.
PalateMedium-bodied with excellent balance, the wine shows lively acidity that frames the red fruit core. Fine, well-integrated tannins provide structure without heaviness. The mineral backbone from the stony soils runs through the palate, adding complexity and length.
FinishFresh and food-friendly with persistent red fruit and a clean, mineral-driven conclusion.
Overall impressionA textbook Chianti Classico that combines purity of fruit with authentic terroir expression.
Food Pairings
In Tuscany, this would traditionally accompany bistecca alla fiorentina, the region's famous T-bone steak grilled over chestnut wood, or wild boar ragu with pappardelle. Locals would also pair it with aged pecorino from the Maremma, ribollita (the hearty bread and vegetable soup), or simple grilled lamb with rosemary and garlic. The wine's bright acidity and moderate tannins make it perfect for the tomato-based sauces and herb-crusted meats that define Tuscan cooking.
We think this wine would go well with
Serve at 16-17°C to showcase the fruit whilst allowing the structure to speak. No need to decant this approachable wine, though an hour in a carafe will open up the aromatics if you prefer. Use a medium-sized Burgundy bowl to concentrate the violet and cherry aromas whilst providing enough surface area for the wine to breathe.
The vineyards sit on the distinctive Galestro soils of Castellina in Chianti, a crumbly, mineral-rich stone that provides excellent drainage and imparts a characteristic mineral backbone to the wines. At 300-400 metres elevation, the sites benefit from diurnal temperature variation that preserves acidity whilst allowing full phenolic ripeness. These stony soils stress the vines just enough to concentrate flavours whilst maintaining the elegance that defines great Chianti Classico.
Chianti Classico represents the historic heart of Chianti, covering the hills between Florence and Siena where Sangiovese has been cultivated for centuries. The DOCG requires a minimum 80% Sangiovese and enforces strict yields and ageing requirements. Unlike basic Chianti, Classico wines must show greater concentration and ageability, with the Gallo Nero (Black Rooster) symbol guaranteeing origin from this prestigious zone. The region's diverse microclimates and soils create wines with both power and finesse.
FAQs
What does this Chianti Classico taste like?
Bright and elegant with cherry and red plum fruit, violet florals, and a distinctive mineral backbone from the stony Galestro soils of Castellina.
When should I drink this wine?
Perfect now through 2032. It's showing beautifully at the moment with fresh fruit and integrated tannins.
What makes this kosher wine different?
The kosher certification doesn't change the wine's character - it's the same authentic Chianti Classico expression, just made under rabbinical supervision.
What food pairs best with this wine?
Classic with pasta and tomato-based sauces, grilled lamb, aged cheeses, or anything with herbs. The bright acidity makes it wonderfully food-friendly.
Should I decant this wine?
No need to decant, though 30-60 minutes in a carafe will open up the aromatics. Serve at 16-17°C in medium-sized wine glasses.
Is this wine worth cellaring?
Drinking beautifully now but will develop nicely until 2032. It's more about enjoying its current freshness than long-term development.
OUR GROWERS
Castellare di Castellina
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