2022 Altesino Rosso di Montalcino, Tuscany

Spiced cherries, dried berries and touches of red dates and white pepper. Nicely generous and lightly chewy on the palate, with more ripe fruit and savoriness in the finish. Drink now.

92 points jamessuckling.com

Altesino Rosso di Montalcino offers a lively and approachable gateway into the world of Sangiovese from one of Tuscany’s most respected estates. Crafted entirely from Sangiovese Grosso—the same clone used in Brunello—this wine captures the elegance and energy of Montalcino without the wait required for its older sibling.

Altesino, a historic producer in the region, has long been at the forefront of innovation in Montalcino, being among the first to introduce the concept of cru wines in the 1970s and the use of barriques for maturation. Their estate vineyards are nestled in the rolling hills just northeast of the town, with a patchwork of soils and exposures that offer complexity and freshness in the finished wines.

The Rosso is fermented in stainless steel and aged for several months in large Slavonian oak casks, which softens the tannins without overshadowing the fruit. It opens with aromas of red cherries, dried rose petals, and a touch of earth, leading into a palate of tart cranberry, wild strawberry, hints of leather, and dried herbs. The tannins are fine and supple, balanced by a vivid line of acidity that makes this wine a joy to drink now.

Perfect with Tuscan staples like pappardelle al ragù, grilled lamb, or roasted pork with rosemary, this wine also pairs beautifully with mushroom risotto and aged Pecorino. It can be enjoyed young for its brightness and charm, or cellared for a few years to develop a touch more depth.