Castagna 2018 Un Segreto (Sangiovese-Syrah)

The Un Segreto sees the power of Genesis and La Chiave combine in a complex, savoury red which has been called ‘the ultimate expression of the Castagna family estate’. The Sangiovese is dry and earthy, the Syrah spicy, floral and statuesque … it will age gracefully for decades.

“This is a heck of a wine. Hyper fragrant, dried roses, game meat, cherry, fresh and pickled, judicious if not liberal clove and cinnamon seasoning, a flighty, fresh herb freshness. The perfume is seduction. In the palate, tannins etch shape, dark berries and that meatiness get a dusting from clove/cinnamon and the wine rolls along with firming texture and a general sense of gourmand deliciousness. Serious wine, brilliant wine, delicious wine. More to come with cellaring too. Iconic.” ~ Mike Bennie in The Wine Front

“A confluence of Syrah and Sangiovese from the home vineyard, fidel itous to both varieties as much as it is, perhaps, Castagna’s most heartfelt expression. The spirit, levitating over Italy, while the souls of the feet are hardened by the local turf. The result is moreish, mid-weighted and extremely refined.

This is almost balletic in its grace, pirouetting across a spread of violets, five-spice, bing cherry and peppery herb. It reminds me of Schioppettino, Friuli’s spicy variety. This is the surprise of the triumvirate this vintage. Sangiovese’s tannic edginess and frisk of acidity restrain Syrah’s more flamboyant tendencies with ease. Long, compact and mellifluous. A gorgeous drink, growing in stature with each glass.” ~ Ned Goodwin MW