2021 Umani Ronchi Rosso Conero DOC San Lorenzo, Marche

Aromas of spiced blackberry jam, black tea and roasted rosemary lift from the glass of this darkly hued wine. Structured with firm, yet balanced tannins, with flavors of black cherry, licorice, clove and cedar on the lingering and giving finish.

89 points Jeff Porter wineenthusiast.com

Umani Ronchi Rosso Conero DOC San Lorenzo is a soulful, medium to full bodied red from the Marche region on Italy’s Adriatic coast, made predominantly from Montepulciano — the region’s flagship red grape — with a touch of Sangiovese. This wine takes its name from the San Lorenzo vineyard, located in the Conero hills near the sea, where limestone soils and coastal breezes create ideal conditions for deeply coloured, aromatic wines with both richness and freshness.

Vinification begins with a gentle fermentation in stainless steel, followed by ageing in large Slavonian oak casks and smaller French barriques for around 12 months. The style is classic and balanced, allowing the Montepulciano fruit to shine while adding a layer of refinement from oak and time.

The nose is inviting and dark-fruited, with aromas of black cherry, plum, sweet spice, violet and a hint of leather. On the palate, it’s generous and textured, offering ripe blackberry, blackcurrant, baking spices, cocoa and a dusting of dried herbs. The tannins are ripe but assertive, and the finish is long and savoury with a gentle earthy minerality.

Food pairing: perfect with slow-cooked lamb, grilled sausages, tagliatelle with wild boar ragù, porcini risotto, or aged pecorino. Also great with lasagna or braised beef dishes.

Cellar potential: drinking well now with a decant, but will develop added depth and softness over the next 6 to 8 years.