About I Sodi di San Niccolò
- Style
- Red
- Grape Varieties
- Sangiovese, Malvasia Nera
- Price Range
- $77-140
- Alcohol
- 14%
Castellare's flagship wine and one of the pioneering Super Tuscans, first produced in 1977-1980 to prove that indigenous Tuscan grapes could rival Bordeaux-blend wines in power and finesse. Made from roughly 85% Sangioveto and 15% Malvasia Nera sourced from the estate's two best crus, it is a powerful, layered red with black fruit, spice, and a long, velvety finish. It has repeatedly ranked in Wine Spectator's Top 100 and is widely considered one of Italy's benchmark wines.
I Sodi di San Niccolò didn't just join the Super Tuscan movement — it helped invent the argument that indigenous grapes belong at that table.
New to wine?
A serious wine, but its ripe, generous fruit makes it a rewarding introduction to what Super Tuscans are all about.
Food Pairings
Perfect with grilled red meats, game, aged cheeses, and richly sauced first courses — a natural match for bistecca alla fiorentina.
When to drink it
Milestone celebrations, fine dining, cellar-worthy gifts
Terroir & Winemaking
Approximately 85% Sangioveto, 15% Malvasia Nera from Castellare's two top crus. Aged in oak barrels for an extended period before further bottle aging. Alcohol approx. 14%.
About the producer
Castellare di CastellinaA benchmark for elegant, terroir-driven Chianti Classico and iconic Super Tuscans.Visit the producer page →Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is I Sodi di San Niccolò considered a Super Tuscan?
- It was created in the late 1970s to show that indigenous Tuscan grapes — Sangioveto and Malvasia Nera — could match the power and finesse of Bordeaux-blend 'Super Tuscans', without relying on Cabernet or Merlot.
- What does I Sodi di San Niccolò taste like?
- Expect a powerful, layered wine with black cherry, plum, spice, and vanilla notes, a velvety texture, and a long finish built on ripe but firm tannins.
- How long should this wine be aged or decanted?
- It can be enjoyed 3-5 years after release but rewards cellaring for a decade or more; when young, decant for 1-2 hours before serving.
Want to know more about this wine?
Ask Vinami's sommelier — no intimidation, just answers.
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