At a glance

Producer

Fèlsina

Region

Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Sangiovese (100%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$45-$65

Tasting profile

Ripe cherry, dried herbs, leather and tobacco with earthy undertones and hints of spice. Structure is robust with firm tannins and fresh acidity.

Evolution: Fruit will evolve towards mature red and black berries, tobacco, balsamic, and forest floor notes increase over 10+ years.

At peak: Complex and profound aromas of dried cherry, leather, balsamic, with silky tannins and long finish.

Structure

Acidity

High, balanced to support aging

Tannins

Firm and fine-grained

Alcohol

Around 13.5-14%

Aging potential

20+ years given top producer, vintage and organic viticulture

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2055

Optimal window

2025 to 2058

Current status

Approaching early maturity, very enjoyable now with development still ahead

Current condition

The wine shows excellent structure with pronounced tannins and acidity, beginning to integrate well. Drink now if preferred fresher or cellar for several more years for fuller complexity.

Fèlsina’s Riserva Rancia is made from 100% Sangiovese on a historic vineyard; the 2018 vintage is excellent in Tuscany with ample ripeness and balanced acidity. The wine’s tannic backbone and acidity provide a strong framework for extended aging well beyond 20 years, with secondary and tertiary characteristics emerging at peak maturity.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with rich Tuscan dishes such as grilled bistecca alla fiorentina, roasted game meats, mushroom risotto, aged Pecorino cheeses, and hearty pasta dishes with red sauces.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and allow complex aromas to open fully

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Fèlsina employs organic viticulture, sustainable farming practices minimizing chemical inputs, water conservation through efficient irrigation, solar energy use at the estate, and eco-friendly packaging.

Overall, Fèlsina’s commitment to organic certification combined with sustainable farming and production practices places it among the more environmentally responsible wines in Chianti Classico. Their use of solar power and water-saving measures further reduces environmental impact. While international distribution adds carbon emissions, the producer’s efforts in sustainable agriculture partly offset this footprint.