The annual comparison of Cortona Syrah highlights an appellation still in search of identity. Alongside established realities capable of continuity and precision, qualitative discontinuities emerge. The complex 2023 and 2024 vintages amplify the differences between producers. A common vision is needed to strengthen recognition and positioning.
In the setting of the Sant’Agostino cloister, as part of the event Chianina & Syrah, was held the presentation of the new vintages of Cortona Syrah. An iconic wine of the area since the days of the D’Alessandro brothers, who pioneered the grape variety in the 1980s.
However, there remain some inconsistencies already highlighted: Sangiovese is still the most widespread grape variety, many hilly areas remain unexplored, and some of the Syrah production leaves the appellation, embracing the Igt Toscana.
The international comparison
The initiative maintains great interest thanks to the comparison with more representative Italian Syrahs and some international. This year’s focus was on the 2023 and 2024 vintages, both of which are complex and controversial. In these contexts, the difference between those with the appropriate skills and structures and those who struggle to interpret climatic difficulties becomes clear.
Continuity versus discontinuity
The most established producers confirm solidity, continuity and precision in vineyard management and winemaking, with centered and reliable wines. Others struggle to keep up with the best, creating a disconnect that is sometimes too noticeable.
Unfortunately, they show discontinuity: good isolated evidence but difficulty maintaining consistent standards. However, the quality average remains good, with wines that are often flavorful and balanced.
The challenge of identity
For the future, more incisive work by the consortium on the definition of distinctive elements of the territory, perhaps with the help of leading area producers. The goal is to build a shared recognition that distinguishes the Syrah of Cortona in the Italian landscape.
Tasting and service
In tasting 65 wines from around the world. Efficient and precise service; decidedly low wine temperatures, possibly slightly penalizing taste perception.
These are our best tastings of the Syrahs produced in Cortona:
Cortona Syrah 2023 Stefano Amerighi
Score: 93/100
Average price: € 35
100% Syrah. 12 months in large oak, cement and amphora barrels.
Classic ruby. Aromas with small dedication to Cornas Syrahs, then small red fruits (raspberry, blueberry). Elegant sip, balanced tannins, relaxed and savory progression, persistent and dynamic finish.
Tuscany Serine 2022 Stefano Amerighi
Score: 95/100
Average price: € 70
100% Syrah. 18 months in French oak barrels and tonneaux.
Ruby red. Intense and sharp nose on spicy notes (cardamom, cinnamon) with fine red fruit. Thick and elegant texture, great quality tannins, flavorful, defined and agile development, very persistent and balanced finish.
Cortona Syrah Il Castagno 2023 Fabrizio Dionisio
Score: 95/100
Average price: € 40
100% Syrah. 12 months in French oak tonneau.
Lightly discharged ruby. Crisp nose of yellow peach, floral and small berries. Fine and elegant mouthfeel, excellent tannins, with a very elegant and relaxed, enveloping and snappy finish for intensity and persistence.
Cortona Syrah Castagnino 2025 Fabrizio Dionisio
Score: 92/100
Average price: € 18
100% Syrah. Short passage in steel and part in used wood.
Bright ruby. Floral and spicy olfactory profile. Juicy, snappy and immediate sip, great drinkability, savory finish.
Tuscany Arenite 2022 Baldetti
Score: 94/100
Average price: € 30
100% Syrah. 12-14 months in French oak barrels.
Dark ruby. Complex nose son woody, smoky and spicy notes. Dense texture, energetic but well integrated tannins, intense and flavorful development, very persistent finish.
Cortona Syrah Pollux 2023 Chiara Vinciarelli
Score: 93/100
Average price: € 28
100% Syrah. 12 months in tonneau and barrique.
Purplish red. Intense, spicy nose with crisp dark fruit. Balanced mouthfeel, well-melted tannins, juicy and agile progression. Lingering finish lingers on notes of licorice.
