Tenuta San Guido Le Difese Toscana IGT 2023

The entry-level stablemate of Sassicaia, Le Difese was first produced in 2002 intended solely for the local market, but its success with international customers has seen production scaled up over time. Blended from Cabernet Sauvignon and Tuscan native Sangiovese, Le Difese has a clear personality with fragrant aromas, soft tannins, sweet ripe fruits. At home on the table with a variety of foods.

92/100 - 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. - James Button, Decanter

91/100 - 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. - Antonio Galloni, Vinous