“An unquestionable reputation for consistency and excellence.” – Wine Advocate

Castellare’s I Sodi does it, once again. 98 POINTS! Plus a gaggle of other 96-97 ratings from the pros.

By far, it’s my absolute favorite Tuscan gem under $100, for every vintage. BUT THIS AT $75?! Current vintages have crept up to over $100 and is on its way to the $150s as the ratings and the reputation climb, so THIS IS NUTS.

While the first vintage was 1977, this beacon of classicism has undergone quite the revival in popularity with the quality of the wines consistently soaring to new heights. Per Antonio Galloni’s Vinous “Castellare is the crown jewel in Paolo Panerai’s portfolio. Panerai and his long-time winemaker Alessandro Cellai, a disciple of Giacomo Tachis, make gorgeous wines at all of their estates, but Castellare has something more. And that something is a pedigree of terroirs that have proven over time to be among the most exceptional in Tuscany.”*

And what does that yield? Magic. Pure silk on the palate with a juicy core and subtly complex layers of the purest fruit with the classiest earthiness, interwoven into a texture of seamless luxury. There are many, many raves and reviews, we could only fit the top 5 here. Yet they are meaningless with the very first sip, it’s a wine of utter sensuality that caresses your palate and your mind, it just won’t let go.

We beg for an allocation every vintage, but so far we only got lucky with the 2016 and this one. A true press darling, I Sodi has won numerous ‘perfection’ Tre Bicchieri accolades from Gambero Rosso and has appeared in Wine Spectator’s Top-100 several times over the years. Here it is, in all its glory, and at an unbeatable price.

Too bad there are only a few bottles to offer as we drank some already, forgive us!

98 Points – Luca Gardini “An iconic wine by Castellare di Castellina winery, a blend of Sangioveto and Malvasia Nera grapes grown organically. It ages in barrique for 24-30 months. The result is a wine with deep ruby color, fruity aromas of red plum jam, blueberries and touches of marjoram. The palate is dense, marked by a nice acid vein that supports the fruit, with compact and elegant tannins. Balsamic finish with red fruits returns.”

97 Points – Falstaff “Clear ruby with a fine garnet sheen. Impressive nose, very finely drawn, aromas of juicy cherries, blood orange and dried thyme, some liquorice in the background. Polished and precise from the attack to the finish, finely-meshed, very well-integrated tannins, flows beautifully, finely worked out fruit, long finish.”

96 Points – Decanter “Super fragranced nose, patchouli, pot pourri, Turkish Delight, rose with caramelized red berries and a touch of smoke and incense - all quiet forward and expressive. The nose alone you could smell for hours such is its complexity and beguiling nature. Powerful and concentrated on the palate, this is broad and muscular, sinewy with depth and determination. Tannins are well integrated, really giving the support to the fruit and acidity, driving the flavours forward despite the clear weight and hold. Fragranced red berries continue on the palate with a touch of stone, graphite and matchstick. Rich and big on the mid palate, becoming more focused towards the finish. Cleary well made with lots going on. Acidity is great, it’s cool, clean, sleek and packed full of flavour. Almost too much, this is a big wine, so needs time, but has lots of appeal and mouthwatering freshness throughout. Released on the 9th March. Director and winemaker Alessandro Cellai. Drink 2023-2037.”

96 Points – James Suckling “Complex and deeply embedded aromas of ripe blackberries, spices and aromatic bark. Full-bodied and very firm for now, with impressive concentration of fruit and tannin. Very long, balanced finish. Great to taste now, but this is one for the cellar. Patience will be rewarded. Sangiovese and Malvasia Nera. This has always been a top Tuscan red. Best from 2027.”