Avignonesi Rosso di Montepulciano 2024

Avignonesi farms biodynamically in Montepulciano, in the Siena hills of Tuscany, and avoids the synthetic treatments common in conventional viticulture. Its Rosso di Montepulciano DOC is the earlier drinking counterpart to the estate's Vino Nobile, made mainly from Sangiovese, here called Prugnolo Gentile, with a small share of Colorino added for colour and depth. The clay and limestone soils and the warm days and cool nights of the appellation give Sangiovese its fresh acidity and savoury red fruit, while the Colorino deepens the hue and adds a little grip. The vineyards are organic and the wine is vegan. It spends six months in oak, a short élevage that rounds the tannins through gentle oxygen exchange while keeping the fruit primary and bright. The colour is bright ruby. The nose shows cherry and red berries over dried herbs and a touch of pepper, and the palate is medium bodied and fresh, with lively acidity, soft tannin and an earthy, savoury finish. Serve at 16 degrees in a standard red glass, no decanting needed. It is an easy partner for everyday Tuscan cooking.