Le Ragnaie Rosso di Montalcino Single Vineyard 2020

Le Ragnaie is a Tuscan estate in the Montalcino denomination, known for red wines from high-altitude vineyards that range up to over six hundred metres above sea level. This single-vineyard Rosso di Montalcino is made from Sangiovese, the great red grape of central Italy. Altitude is central to its character: the cooler conditions slow ripening, hold acidity and preserve aromatic freshness, while the calcareous, stony soils give structure and a mineral lift. Sangiovese is naturally high in acid and tannin, which is why the wine is firm and savoury rather than soft. The 2020 is aged for twelve months in oak barrels, where gentle oxygen exchange resolves the tannins and adds a light frame of spice without masking the fruit. It is a bright ruby, showing red and black cherry, raspberry and plum, dried Mediterranean herbs, liquorice and an earthy, savoury edge. The palate is medium bodied and fresh, with firm, fine-grained tannin and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, decanted briefly. It is a natural match for Tuscan food.