Ciacci Piccolomini Ateo 2023

Ateo is Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona's red from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, made in Montalcino under the Sant'Antimo appellation. The wine was created in 1989, a difficult year when the estate chose not to make Brunello, and it has remained a Bordeaux-grape counterpoint to its Sangiovese ever since. Montalcino's warm, dry climate ripens these international grapes fully, while the free-draining galestro and clay soils and the estate's elevation keep the fruit fresh and the tannins firm. The cool nights preserve aromatic detail through the long growing season. The wine is aged in wood, where slow oxygen exchange polishes the tannins and adds cedar and spice while the ripe fruit stays in front. The colour is a vibrant ruby. The nose is bright, with blackberry, ripe cherry and plum over fresh herbs, oak spice and a touch of pepper turning to leather. The palate is full and structured, the firm, fine tannin and fresh acidity carrying the fruit to a long, savoury finish. Serve at 17 to 18C, decanting an hour ahead; it suits grilled and roasted red meats and aged cheese.