The 2017 Le Difese is beautifully radiant in the glass. The warm, dry vintage produced an unusually fleshy, supple Le Difese. Bright red berry fruit, spice and floral notes are all nicely pushed forward. Drink it over the next few years.

Fresh and vivid with a blackberry, currant and fresh-herb character. Medium to full body, silky tannins and a focused finish.

The 2017 Le Difese (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese) meets its immediate goals as an entry level red. This is an easy-drinking Tuscan blend from a warm vintage that shows dark, ripe fruit nuances over a short and lean mouthfeel. That said, I have always thought that more could be done with Le Difese especially considering its Tenuta San Guido pedigree. There is potential here to make this a better wine for sure.

First vintage 2002. 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Sangiovese. Sangiovese is bought in. Mid garnet. Dried rosemary and dusty earth tones, with a touch of cigar box. Light red cherry and cassis with a floral tone too. Medium bodied with a savoury, saline thread and fine acidity through the middle, though also with somewhat grainy, moderate tannins. Elegant, but just lacking a bit of fruit density and ripeness – sour red fruit. (TJ)