At a glance

Producer

Podere di Castellare (Ipsus)

Region

Tuscany, Italy (Chianti Classico DOCG)

Grape variety

Sangiovese

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Bone Dry

Typical price

$250-$350 USD per bottle (2024, ex-domestic/importer retail)

Tasting profile

Aromas of wild cherry, violets, dried herbs, graphite, and subtle oak spice. Palate is energetic, with balanced red fruit, fine-grained tannins, and a mineral-driven, persistent finish.

Evolution: Expect integration of tannins and rising complexity after 2025. Tertiary notes of leather, forest floor, and truffle should develop by 2030.

At peak: At peak, the wine will show profound harmony: fruit, earth, spice, and silkiness, typical of elite Gran Selezione bottlings.

Structure

Acidity

Bright, lively, and classic for Sangiovese.

Tannins

Fine, firm, and persistent; polished yet built for aging.

Alcohol

Medium (13.5%-14%)

Aging potential

Significant; 15-20 years under ideal conditions.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2035

Optimal window

2025 to 2040

Current status

Young but approachable, entering its early drinking window; can benefit from further cellaring.

Current condition

Structured, refined tannins and vibrant acidity indicative of premium Chianti Classico Gran Selezione. Still primary, yet showing early complexity.

2028-2035 represents the ideal stage where youthful fruit and mature secondary/tertiary notes achieve perfect balance—common for top-tier Chianti Classico Gran Selezione wines.

Food pairing

Traditional Tuscan roast meats, aged Pecorino, game birds, porcini risotto, or Bistecca alla Fiorentina.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has fine, firm tannins and is built for aging, which can benefit from aeration to enhance its aromas and soften the tannins.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Vineyards managed organically with hand-harvesting; minimal intervention in winemaking; native yeast; energy-efficient operations; use of recycled/recyclable packaging materials.

Ipsus operates under certified organic viticulture across its estate and employs numerous regenerative and sustainable farming practices. There is a conscious focus on responsible energy and water management, as well as eco-friendly packaging. No chemical herbicides or pesticides are used. While not biodynamic, the estate demonstrates a strong sustainability ethos, especially by local standards. Export to non-EU markets increases carbon footprint, but supply chain improvements are ongoing. Overall, among the most sustainably produced wines of its luxury peer group in Chianti Classico.