Winemaker Notes
Blend: 65% Sangiovese, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
The 2023 Le Difese includes Sangiovese from Montosoli and Rufina in Chianti Classico in the blend. The nose is fresh and pure, with a juicy, floral perfume of fresh red berries, violets, and wet stone. It’s fresh and inviting on the palate, with the very pretty elegance that the Sangiovese brings with its more defined structure and refreshing feel. This is a fabulous entry wine to drink over the coming 8-10 years.
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Decanter
A tangy raspberry and pomegranate attack is followed by some ripe dark fruits wrapped in soft, open-knit tannins. Tenuta San Guido sources the Sangiovese for Le Difese from family friends in nearby Chianti Montespertoli and Chianti Rufina, but as a result of the widespread peronospora (downy mildew) in 2023, the percentage has dropped from 70% in 2022 to 65% in the 2023. It doesn't seem to have slowed its momentum, however, as it bristles with energy. Bright and well balanced, it's a delicious introduction to the estate.
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James Suckling
A bright, fragrant and fruity wine with aromas of red cherries, violets and forest floor. Juicy and crisp on the palate, with a light to medium body and chalky tannins. Medium length and very fragrant. Easy drinking. Second wine of Sassicaia.
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Wine Spectator
This red is fresh and light-bodied, displaying cherry, raspberry, spice, tomato leaf and Tuscan scrub flavors. The tannins are nimble yet sinewy, leaving a light astringency on the earthy finish. Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2028. 2,000 cases imported.
Legendary in Italy for its Renaissance art and striking landscape, Tuscany is also home to many of the country’s best red wines. Sangiovese reigns supreme here, as either the single varietal, or a dominant player, in almost all of Tuscany’s best.
A remarkable Chianti, named for its region of origin, will have a bright acidity, supple tannins and plenty of cherry fruit character. From the hills and valleys surrounding the medieval village of Montalcino, come the distinguished and age-worthy wines based on Brunello (Sangiovese). Earning global acclaim since the 1970s, the Tuscan Blends are composed solely of international grape varieties or a mix of international and Sangiovese. The wine called Vine Nobile di Montepulciano, composed of Prognolo Gentile (Sangiovese) and is recognized both for finesse and power.