The 2022 San Guido Le Difese, a proprietary red blend from Tuscany, Italy, showcases an intriguing mix of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. This vintage features 55% Sangiovese sourced from long-standing partners in Chianti and Chianti Rufina and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, according to Decanter's review. The wine, crafted under the supervision of third-generation Priscilla Incisa della Rocchetta, is designed to be approachable immediately and is intended to reflect its Tuscan origins.
Decanter awarded this vintage a score of 92, highlighting its "bright red and purple scents with a creamy backdrop and herbal touches." The review notes a "soft and textured palate full of fresh, tangy cherry and dark hedgerow berries" and concludes with a "long, breezy, balsamic finish." Decanter suggests that Le Difese 2022 can be enjoyed over the next decade.
James Suckling also rated the wine highly with a score of 91, praising its "bright and attractive aromas of raspberries and cranberries with some cedar." Suckling describes it as having a "medium body, with fine tannins and a crunchy finish," noting its fresh and crisp character. He suggests drinking the wine now, emphasizing its immediate appeal.
Jeb Dunnuck provided a detailed review, giving the wine 91+ points. Dunnuck's tasting notes mention aromas of "anise, fresh leather, and spiced cherries." He describes the wine as "medium to full-bodied on the palate, with ripe tannins and a clean mineral touch." The review highlights the wine’s "supple texture" and suggests an open drinking window from 2024 to 2030.
Vinous also awarded the 2022 Le Difese a score of 92, describing it as "plump, juicy, and expressive." The review mentions flavors of "crushed flowers, succulent red cherry fruit, mint, spice, and blood orange," and characterizes it as an "exuberant yet mid-weight coastal Tuscan red." Vinous notes that this vintage benefits from a warm year and earlier bottling, making it an especially fine edition.
Overall, the 2022 San Guido Le Difese is well-received by critics, noted for its bright aromatic profile, fresh and tangy flavors, and immediate drinkability, with potential to age gracefully over the next several years.