We lead off with a pair of new 2022s that highlight the reference-point quality found at every level in the Fèlsina range. "The 2022 Chianti Classico Berardenga is superb. Rich and deep yet also quite translucent, the 2022 is an archetype of Castelnuovo Berardenga," writes Antonio Galloni, and it comes in at an easy case-buy price that makes it a perfect candidate for your next go-to house red. The 2022 Berardenga Riserva is "is classic Fèlsina to the core," as described by Antonio Galloni. "This is impeccably done. There are many notable wines in this range, but for price, value, and accessibility, the Riserva is pretty hard to beat."
With all the hype surrounding 2021, savvy Italian fans can find some truly superb buys in the 2020 vintage as well, not least of which is the 2020 Fontalloro Toscana. With same universal praise as the rest of Fèlsina's line, led by 96 points from Wine Advocate's Monica Larner, the 2020 is "a vibrant red ...On the elegant side, despite its youthful power, with excellent harmony" according to Wine Spectator. The 2020 Rancia Riserva is also another gem for this storied cuvée, with a trio of 95-point reviews that speak to its many collectible virtues.
Finally, for savvy dessert wine fans, the Vin Santo category is a hotbed of impressive offerings that showcase singular style and character, and there are few, if any, Vin Santos that surpass that of the inimitable Felsina for quintessential character and class. We just sourced an introductory parcel of the recently released 2018 at a remarkable price, so fans can stock up, and anyone curious about this beloved style of wine can get a world-class introduction without breaking the bank.
This set from Fèlsina offers a multifaceted tour of classic Tuscan character. In short, everything that makes Fèlsina such a treasured estate is on full display in today's offer.
A firm and silky red with cherry, dried flower and orange peel aromas and flavors. It’s medium-bodied with fine tannins and a fresh and focused finish. Needs a little time to soften but I already enjoy the energy here. Drink or hold.
93 points, James Suckling (Aug 2023)
The 2021 Chianti Classico Berardenga is boisterous and expressive right out of the glass. Dark fruit, earthiness, leather, spice and tobacco convey tons of Castelnuovo Berardenga character. The 2021 keeps getting better in the glass. It's a super-classic example of the house style and a wine readers should consider buying by the case. The Berardenga bottling can be a bit wild, but in 2021 has an added touch of sophistication that is undeniable.
92 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Aug 2023)
The Fèlsina 2021 Chianti Classico Berardenga has a spicy or crunchy side that I often find with Sangiovese. There is a lot of fruit brightness here with cassis, red cherry, mineral, dried tobacco and grilled rosemary. This is an easy-drinking Tuscan red with the natural acidity and brightness to pair with a classic lasagna or eggplant parmigiana.
91 points, Monica Larner, Wine Advocate (May 2023)
This has a saline undercurrent to the cherry, cinnamon, rose hip, earth and Tuscan scrub flavors, all backed by a solid base of tannins and vibrant acidity. Long, energetic finish. Best from 2024 through 2030. 22,500 cases made, 8,000 cases imported.
91 points, Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator (Oct 2023)
In the southeastern confines of the denomination, the Fèlsina estate has been an unwavering proponent of 100% Sangiovese. Even the annata captures the wildness of this grape combined with the Mediterranean character of this warm and luminous corner of Chianti Classico. The 2021 starts with smoky nuances, earth and subtle oak, then progresses to fragrant mint and thyme. It is concentrated and ripe, yet balanced by freshness and agility. An underlying firmness releases gradually to reveal a savoury finish of sundried tomato.
91 points, Michaela Morris, Decanter (Feb 2023)
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