The 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva Il Poggiale is another potent wine from Castellare, but as opposed to the Riserva, it appears to have the fruit intensity to handle the oak. Dark red cherry, lavender, rose petal mint, licorice and earthy notes abound. This is a very complete and satisfying wine from Castellare.

Dense aromas of dark plums and black fruit on the nose, as well as some aromatic oak. Medium-bodied with a lovely core of fruit-soaked, velvety tannins, providing good focus and length. This is pleasant to drink now, but will age nicely, too. Drink or hold.

Rich and evoking cherry, raspberry, iron and spice flavors, this red is backed by vibrant acidity and dense tannins. Balanced and brimming with energy on the long finish. Should hit its stride in two to three more years. Sangioveto, Canaiolo and Ciliegiolo. Best from 2025 through 2043. 1,100 cases made, 800 cases imported.

This release of 15,000 bottles is among the most pleasantly accessible wines in this portfolio from Castellare di Castellina. The 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva Il Poggiale shows soft fruit, cherry, blue flower and sweet potting soil. The wine is texturally rich but not heavy, and these native Italian grapes always have a lot of fresh acidity on offer, even in a vintage like 2020 that was characterized by hot summer weather.

Fresh and cooked cherries soaked in vibrant aromas of blood orange on the nose recall a cherry tart that is fully realized on the palate, with notes of vanilla and chocolate and a velvety texture that lingers on the palate.