Rosso di Montalcino
Rosso di Montalcino is made with the same varietal as Brunello but should not be considered merely Brunello’s “little brother”. The grapes come from younger Sangiovese vines, about 15 years old, that later will be used for the production of Brunello. The wine-making style is planned from the beginning to produce a wine that drinks younger. The Rosso is released one year after the harvest.
Appellation: Rosso di Montalcino DOC
Type: Red, dry
Varietal: 100% Sangiovese Grosso
Color: Vibrant ruby red.
Bouquet: Intense and fruit-rich with notes of earth and minerality.
Taste: A dry, warm and slightly tannic palate with pretty red-berry fruit and a pleasant bite on the finish.
Alcohol: 14.5%
Food Pairings: Pasta with red sauce, risottos, light meat dishes.
Production Area: Montalcino (Siena).
Vineyard: Testucchiaia vineyard. The average age is about 15 years old with a significant portion over 25 years old.
Elevation: 365 meters (1,200 feet) a.s.l.
Exposure: Southwest.
Training system: Spurred cordon.
Soil: Mixed limestone and silica rocks.
Yield: 2.5 tons per acre.
Harvest: Early- to mid-October.
Vinification: Spontaneous fermentation thermo-conditioned in steel tanks for a maximum of three weeks with 8-10 soft daily pump-overs.
Aging: 12 months in large Slavonian oak barrels, followed by a few months in the bottle before release.
2012 Rosso di Montalcino – 90 Points – Vinous Media (Dec 2014)
“Very dark red. Smoky, earthy nuances dominate red cherry on the nose. Then big and dense on the palate, with rich red cherry and underbrush flavors that linger nicely. Finishes creamy, with a peppery nuance and a trace of alcoholic warmth. This huge Rosso is not unlike a Brunello, so those drinkers who like their wines bigger and more structured might opt for this Rosso in 2012.” ~ Ian D'Agata
2011 Rosso di Montalcino – 88 Points – Wine Spectator (2013)
“Black cherry, leather, chocolate and spice flavors grace this red. Juicy and balanced, echoing fruit and spice on the lingering finish. Just a bit astringent.” ~B.S.
