We decided that autumn is a wonderful time to revisit San Felice reds. The historic San Felice estate in Tuscany honors tradition while being at the forefront of innovation and research to revive nearly extinct, ancient Tuscan grape varieties. The estate is also deeply committed to sustainability and biodiversity. We were delighted to sample these four wines: 2011 Poggio Rosso Chianti Classico Riserva, 2018 Campogiovanni Brunello di Montalcino, 2022 Bell’Aja Bolgheri DOC Superiore, and 2021 Vigorello Toscana IGT. All are remarkable, and perfect to sip on by the fire or during the holidays.

San Felice Reds

These four San Felice reds are special-occasion wines from the historic estate located in the heart of Chianti Classico territory. The San Felice estate covers about 685 hectares in Tuscany’s three most prestigious production zones: Chianti Classico, Montalcino and Bolgheri. At an altitude of about 1,300 feet above sea level, San Felice credits a perfect combination of soil and micro-climate, together with a wide temperature range, for creating excellent wines. As well, the estate features a luxurious hotel, highly regarded restaurants and spa, and about 15,000 olive trees.

San Felice 2011 Poggio Rosso Chianti Classico Riserva ($80)

We’ve tasted new releases (2018 and 2019 vintages) of this beautiful Poggio Rosso Chianti Classico Riserva. But this 2011 vintage is next level. With 14 years of age on it, this is a killer Sangiovese. We poured it with spicy and savory Italian meatballs – so delicious. You could also serve it with aged pecorino cheese, truffle cheese, grilled meats, roast beef, or hearty beef stew. San Felice crafted this 100% Sangiovese from selected clones from Poggio Rosso vineyard, planted in the 1970s. The winery says “it represents the pinnacle of San Felice’s terroir.” This nuanced wine supports that statement.

2018 Campogiovanni Brunello di Montalcino ($75)

Next, San Felice Campogiovanni Brunello di Montalcino 2018 is 100% Sangiovese and classic in style. We understand why Wine Spectator named this beauty on five separate occasions to its Top 100 list. This elegant red is medium-bodied and bright, with a rich mouthfeel. Pair it with barbecued or grilled meats, or with aged pecorino cheese. However, while it is drinking well now, we suggest putting it away for a few years to experience its full potential — it’s known for longevity.

2022 Bell’Aja Bolgheri DOC Superiore ($80)

This is a powerful red, comprised mainly of Merlot with some Cabernet Sauvignon. San Felice starts with grapes from the oldest Merlot parcel of their vineyard in the Le Sondraie area of Bolgheri. Winemaker Leonardo Bellaccini notes that this wine is a true expression of a unique terroir. Decant this aromatic red if you drink it now, or better yet, put it in the cellar for a few years. We served it with our turkey feast on Canadian Thanksgiving, and it really complemented the meal. You could also pair this balanced and complex wine with grilled lamb chops, winter stews, and roasts.

2021 Vigorello Toscana IGT ($70)

In 1968, San Felice created Vigorello, 100% Sangiovese, which became the first of a new generation of Tuscan wines that subsequently became known as Super Tuscans. Likewise, Vigorello remains San Felice’s signature wine today. Over time, San Felice blended more grape varieties into Vigorello. For example, this 2021 vintage also comprises the ancient Tuscan grape Pugnitello, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot.
We loved the 2018 and 2020 vintages of this powerhouse wine, and this bottle continues that trend. It’s an outstanding, dense, rich, earthy, and structured red wine. We decanted it for several hours, and it paired perfectly with our roast beef dinner. But we recommend putting it in the cellar for a few more years.

Summary: San Felice Reds

In conclusion, these four San Felice reds are magnificent special-occasion wines that will enhance our holidays. In other words, they will grace our Thanksgiving table and be the centerpiece of our holiday parties.

Thank you for the samples, San Felice and Platinum Media Agency.

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Cheers!
Margot and Dave