# I Sodi di S. Niccolò (2018)

- **Producer:** Castellare di Castellina
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese, Malvasia Nera
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €100
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–20 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, black cherry, red cherry, black plum, vanilla, coffee, cedar, chocolate, earth, leather

## About this wine

I Sodi di S. Niccolò 2018 is a red wine from Castellare di Castellina in Tuscany, Italy, produced under the Toscana IGT appellation. It is primarily made from 85% Sangiovese and 15% Malvasia Nera. The vineyards are situated at an altitude of approximately 430 meters, on calcareous and clay-limestone soils. The estate, founded in 1968 by Paolo Panerai, is known for its dedication to traditional Tuscan winemaking principles combined with innovative techniques and a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture. The name 'I Sodi di S. Niccolò' reflects the challenging, hand-worked nature of the vineyard plots and the proximity to the 14th-century church of San Niccolò.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'I Sodi' refers to the hard, hand-worked lands.
- The estate is located on a hilltop surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.
- The winery was founded in 1968, the same year as the moon landing.
- The bird on the label symbolizes sustainability.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and fine, sweet tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and game. Its high acidity can cut through fatty components, while the complex fruit and savory notes can harmonize with robust sauces and aged cheeses.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for I Sodi di S. Niccolò 2018 involves plot-by-plot alcoholic fermentation in steel vats at around 25°C for 7 days. Maceration lasts for approximately 20 days, followed by malolactic fermentation. The wine is then aged for about 30 months in French oak barrels, with two-thirds being new. Following barrel aging, it receives an additional 10 months of bottle aging before release. Sustainable viticulture practices are integral to the estate's approach.