Castagna La Chiave Sangiovese 2018

Castagna, from the biodynamic vineyards of Beechworth in Victoria, Australia, has earned a reputation for producing wines that reflect both a sense of place and the traditions of European varieties. La Chiave Sangiovese 2018 continues this tradition with a beautifully crafted wine that marries the boldness of Australian terroir with the finesse of Tuscany's native Sangiovese grape. The 2018 vintage, marked by a warm growing season, has produced a Sangiovese with depth, ripe fruit, and the lively acidity typical of the variety. This wine shows Castagna’s dedication to minimal intervention and biodynamic principles, allowing the natural character of the grape to shine through.

Beechworth’s granite soils, coupled with the cooling influence of its high altitude, allow the Sangiovese to develop complexity, while still retaining its bright acidity and elegant tannin structure.

Appearance: Bright ruby red with garnet edges, showcasing both youthful vibrancy and the potential for aging.

Aroma: Lively and aromatic, with notes of red cherry, pomegranate, and wild raspberry, complemented by savoury aromas of dried herbs, tobacco, and leather. As the wine opens up, subtle hints of rose petals, black tea, and a touch of earthiness come through, adding layers of complexity.

Taste: Medium-bodied and structured, the palate is fresh with flavours of sour cherry, red currant, and cranberry, balanced by savoury undertones of dried thyme, bay leaf, and a hint of liquorice. The wine’s acidity is bright and mouthwatering, keeping the fruit in balance while the finely grained tannins provide a firm but elegant structure. There’s a subtle spiciness and minerality from the granite soils that adds depth to the mid-palate.

Finish: Long and vibrant, with lingering red fruit, dried herbs, and a savoury mineral edge. The tannins and acidity ensure a clean, refreshing finish, leaving a lasting impression of balance and finesse.

Pairings: Baked scallops with smoked cerdito, chive, parsley, and fennel. The wine’s acidity will balance the rich scallops, while its herbal notes and minerality complement the smoky pork and fresh herbs. 

Charred venison rack with mesquite, black cabbage, and caramelized pearl onion. The savoury, gamey flavours of the venison will harmonize with the wine’s earthy, herbal character, while the bright fruit and tannins will cut through the richness of the dish.

Castagna La Chiave Sangiovese 2018 is a refined yet bold expression of Sangiovese, showcasing the balance of fruit, acidity, and earthiness that the grape is known for, with an added layer of complexity from Beechworth’s unique terroir. Perfect for pairing with richly flavoured meats or herb-driven dishes, this wine will also continue to evolve gracefully over the next decade.