2023 Poderi Sanguineto Rosso di Montepulciano, Tuscany

Poderi Sanguineto Rosso di Montepulciano is Tuscany at its most honest and drinkable, made with the same care and conviction as the estate’s Vino Nobile but designed for earlier enjoyment. The vineyards sit just outside Montepulciano on gently undulating hills with sandy clay and marine influenced soils, giving wines that favour perfume, brightness and savoury detail over weight. Altitude and cooling breezes help keep everything fresh and lively.

The driving force behind the estate is Dora Forsoni, a fiercely independent winemaker who returned to her family farm in the 1980s and became one of Montepulciano’s most respected traditional voices. Farming is organic, the cellar work is minimal and nothing is rushed. The Rosso is predominantly Sangiovese, fermented naturally and aged simply to preserve fruit, energy and a strong sense of place.

This is a beautifully expressive wine. Juicy sour cherry, red plum and wild strawberry lead the way, with dried herbs, subtle earth and a gentle savoury note underneath. The tannins are fine and chalky, giving just enough grip to make it feel serious, while the acidity keeps everything fresh and moreish. It is medium bodied, vibrant and dangerously easy to drink.

At the table, this is a weeknight hero that still feels authentic and soulful. It shines with tomato based pasta, pizza, grilled sausages or simple roast chicken. Serve it with a slight chill in warmer weather and it becomes even more charming. While it is made to be enjoyed young, it will happily hold for several years, gaining extra savoury complexity without losing its lift.