Biondi-Santi Rosso di Montalcino 2021 2022

Biondi-Santi, the estate credited with creating Brunello di Montalcino, makes this Rosso di Montalcino from 100 percent Sangiovese grown in Montalcino, in southern Tuscany. Once known as the white-label Brunello, it was renamed in 1983 with the creation of the DOC. The vines grow on the estate's galestro and clay soils, whose stony, mineral character gives Sangiovese its bright acidity and fine tannin, while Montalcino's warm, dry climate and elevation preserve freshness through ripening. The wine is aged in large Slavonian oak casks, a traditional format that lets the tannins settle through slow oxygen exchange while keeping the fruit and the variety's red-fruited character intact rather than adding overt oak flavour. The colour is a clear ruby. The nose is fresh and savoury, with red cherry, raspberry and plum over earth and dried herbs. The palate is medium bodied, with crisp acidity, fine tannin and a clean, savoury finish that reflects the terroir. This is Sangiovese in its more approachable form, ready to drink yet true to the estate style. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees with grilled meats, lamb and tomato-based pasta.