This post has been sponsored by San Felice. All opinions expressed are my own. The following message is intended for those 21+.
San Felice holds a very special place in Tuscan winemaking as the birthplace of the Super Tuscan revolution, and as a "living laboratory" where forgotten ancient grapes were brought back from the brink of extinction. In the medieval hamlet of Castelnuovo Berardenga, the timeless soul of Tuscan winemaking meets the high-tech art of cutting-edge winemaking.
Located in Tuscany's Chianti Classico DOCG, Castelnuovo Berardenga is the heart of San Felice. Refined by decades of elite research and commitment to the land, Castelnuovo Berardenga's Chianti Classico is a masterclass in elegance and history, and a thorough embodiment of the Tuscan terroir.
And we'll be talking about exactly that in our interview with Francesca Giuggioli. We'll also be reviewing San Felice's 2023 Chianti Classico Borgo, in addition to providing pairings and an overview of the winery and the region itself.
Now, let's get to it.
Wine Overview
Quick Facts
- Winery: San Felice is a Tuscan winery located in the Castelnuovo Berardenga area of the Chianti Classico DOCG, just outside of Siena. One of San Felice's most significant achievements is the rediscovery and commercial revival of the Pugnitello grape, a varietal indigenous to Tuscany that was nearly extinct. San Felice's vineyards are extensive, covering some 685 hectares. The heart of the winery is their Chianti Classico estate, which covers 150 hectares. San Felice also operates the Campogiovanni estate in Montalcino, encompassing some 23 hectares, and the Bell'Aja estate in Bolgheri of 15 hectares. San Felice is also responsible for the Vitiarium Project established in the 1980s, which has worked to preserve over 270 ancient Tuscan grape varieties.
- Grape Varietals: Primarily Sangiovese, with small amounts of Colorino and Pugnitello.
- ABV: 12.5%
- Price: As of this review, this wine costs about $20-30 USD, depending on the outlet.
- Aging Potential: While this bottle is designed for immediate enjoyment, it can be cellared for about 10-15 years.
Region, Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany
The region covers the central area of Tuscany, roughly the hilly area between the cities of Florence and Siena. This area is picturesque, featuring rolling hills, olive groves, vineyards, and medieval villages. The area is graced by a primarily Mediterranean climate, boasting warm and sunny summers, with mild winters. Winters are often fairly damp. The hills are part of the Apennine foothills, meaning that the vineyards are planted at elevations between 250 and 500 meters above sea level, allowing the grapes to benefit from warm days and cool nights. This is absolutely crucial for slow and even ripening, which allows Sangiovese to develop the complex flavors and high acidity for which it is prized.
Aromatic and Tasting Notes
On the Nose
The bouquet is immediate off the top of the glass, an intense blossoming of bright red fruits with hints of acidity. Raspberry and ripe dark cherry are at the fore, with floral elements such as violet giving pleasant complexity. Deeper into the glass, notes of cranberry and sweet spices allow the aromatics to mature. Thoroughly enjoyable and memorably expressive. A delight.
One the Palate
On the palate, the wine features well-integrated tannins, while in terms of flavor, the aromatics largely carry over, with deep, ripe red fruit notes, framed in a lively acidity.
Finish
The wine ends on a lasting, harmonious finish. Very enjoyable.
Wine Score
For its pleasant and memorable bouquet, the quality of its structure, and delicious palate, I'll give this bottle a very respectable 92.
Food Pairings
Chianti Classico is a delicious pairing for heavier Italian fare and red meats. Here are some of my go-to pairings:
- Grilled Steaks: Chianti has had a lasting love affair with grilled steaks. The two are a match made in heaven due to Chianti's robust tannins and acidity. In addition, the wine's savory and earthy notes, often with hints of tobacco and leather, deliciously complement the rich, smoky flavors of a well-seared steak.
- Red Sauces: We're talking pasta with rich tomato-based sauces, and a hint of spice, such as spaghetti marinara or penne arrabbiata. Throw in some meatballs and sausages, and you've got a delicious pairing.
- Red Meat: Grilled or roasted red meats, such as steak, lamb chops, and boar, are all delicious pairings with a Chianti Classico. Consider preparing these meats thoroughly, herbed with plenty of garlic.
- Grilled Sausages: Italian sausages, with their mix of spices and herbs, harmonize beautifully with a good Chianti. Throw in some peppers, onions, and a bit of spice, and you're good to go.
- Tuscan Cuisine: This one should be obvious, but Tuscan cuisine pairs deliciously with Tuscan wine. That means dishes like bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak) or wild boar ragu.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto, with plenty of mozzarella, preferably layered with mushrooms or sausage, would be delicious.
Who is this Wine For?
The "Everyday Gourmet" is the target audience for this bottle. If you're a casual enthusiast, a serious collector, or style yourself as a value-conscious gourmet, then this wine is for you. This bottle has an excellent quality-to-price ratio, clocking in at just $30 USD despite its delicious palate, thoroughly pleasant bouquet, and lovely mouthfeel. What's more, this bottle's vibrant acidity and supply of tannins make it a blissfully food-friendly wine, whether for hearty grilling or classical Italian cuisine.
Where to Buy
As of this review, you can purchase the wine from most major retailers. Online, I would suggest Wine Transit.
And that's our review of San Felice's Chianti Classico Borgo 2023. If you enjoyed today's article, tried the wine, or have any questions or suggestions, be sure to let us know in the comments below. We always love hearing from you!
Cheers!
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