The 2023 Le Difese is terrific and the best vintage I’ve had to date of this wine. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese, it has lovely aromas of Mediterranean scrub, lavender and sea breeze while the smooth, delicious palate doles out ripe Marasca cherry, cassis, star anise and black tea. Velvety tannins and fresh acidity keep it balanced. Round and juicy and made for early pleasure, it will also give several years of sheer enjoyment. (KO)

A tangy raspberry and pomegranate attack is followed by some ripe dark fruits wrapped in soft, open-knit tannins. Tenuta San Guido sources the Sangiovese for Le Difese from family friends in nearby Chianti Montespertoli and Chianti Rufina, but as a result of the widespread peronospora (downy mildew) in 2023, the percentage has dropped from 70% in 2022 to 65% in the 2023. It doesn't seem to have slowed its momentum, however, as it bristles with energy. Bright and well balanced, it's a delicious introduction to the estate.

The 2023 Le Difese is a gorgeous wine from Tenuta San Guido. Fresh, aromatic and inviting, the 2023 is all charm. Floral notes meld into a core of crushed red berry fruit, mint, spice and white pepper. Medium in body and gracious, Le Difese is an absolute delight. As always, Le Difese is a blend of deselected lots from Sassicaia and Guidalberto, plus some purchased Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. In 2023, Sangiovese was challenged by the growing season, so the blend includes more Cabernet Sauvignon. This is an impressive effort for a year that required constant vigilance in the vineyard because of frequent rain and elevated disease pressure. (EG)