Review: Wines of Famiglia Casadei, 2026 Releases
Judging strictly by the documentation furnished on its website, and there’s a good deal of it, Famiglia Casadei’s commitment to authentic wines and ethical products is legitimate and uncompromising. No one has to take this on faith: the timeline and receipts are right there. The family photo at the top of the Famiglia’s website puts people on notice that they are not playing around and that there is zero interest in entertaining the cynics. They say what they mean. Even the dog appears ready to handle the toughest biodiversity questions with ease. Along with a staunch commitment to principles, the grapes used in their wines originate from numerous regions, resulting in quite a depth of portfolio. Today we’re trying three of their latest, including an Italian GSM.
2024 Olianas Cannanou DOC – 90% Cannonau (Grenache) and 10% Tintiliu. Aromas of wild berry at first, though give it a few minutes and a cigar box squeaks open, followed by a small piece of dark chocolate. Lively acidity and soft tannins support a core of dark cherry and red plum on the palate, melded together with some baking spice. It’s easy company straight out of the bottle but give this a bit of a chill and pair it with a Manchego or Gruyère to heighten the experience. B+ / $23
2021 Castello del Trebbio Chianti Rufina Riserva DOCG – Layered and restrained, with aromas of blackberry and sour cherry followed by black pepper and herbs. Dark fruit leads the charge on the palate, supported by chalky tannins and ample acidity before being accompanied by a note of licorice rope as it recedes. Straightforward, approachable and delivers the goods. There’s very little with which to find fault. B+ / $27
2023 Tenuta Casadei Sogno Mediterraneo GSM IGT – Dense and right from the onset, this one is a beast. It needs a good hour before enjoying so it can find its footing. A big blast of balsamic at first, then tar and wild mushroom as it opens up, along with a hint of violet if you are patient enough to wait for it. But it’s the palate where it gets deep and complex: currants, ripe blackberries and a drizzle of dark chocolate. A GSM blend from Italy? Quite the anomaly, but what is even more surprising is the quality found at this price point. Shockingly good, but can use a rich dinner to reinforce its quality. A- / $25
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