2024 Argiano Rosso di Montalcino, Tuscany

Pristine with vinous aromas, red cherries, red currants and sweet, fragrant violets. The medium-bodied palate shows crisp, brilliant acidity, chewy tannins and a crunchy style. Full of energy. Drink now 

93 points Aldo Fiordelli, James Suckling Nov 2025 

Argiano has been part of Montalcino's landscape for more than four centuries, its Renaissance villa and surrounding vineyards standing as a reminder of Tuscany's extraordinary winemaking heritage. Under the direction of Bernardino Sani, the estate has enjoyed a remarkable revival, with organic viticulture and a renewed appreciation for the character of its vineyards. While its Brunellos command international attention, the Rosso di Montalcino is a particularly appealing way to experience Argiano's elegant approach to Sangiovese without waiting years for the wine to reach its stride.

Made entirely from Sangiovese grown on the estate's southwestern Montalcino vineyards, the 2024 Rosso captures the grape's brighter, more immediately approachable personality. The growing season required careful vineyard work, with a cooler, wetter start followed by more favourable conditions as harvest approached. Gentle extraction and a restrained approach to maturation preserve the fruit's freshness and aromatic character. There is a lovely sense of place here, with the warmth of southern Tuscany balanced by the natural acidity and savoury detail that make Sangiovese such a rewarding food wine.

Bright ruby red with youthful violet reflections. Fresh cherry, wild strawberry and red plum lead the aromas, followed by violet, orange peel and a little dried oregano. The palate is lively and beautifully proportioned, with juicy red fruit, fine supple tannins and refreshing acidity. A hint of liquorice, crushed stone and savoury spice adds interest, while the finish is clean, fragrant and gently persistent. It has enough structure to be taken seriously, but its easy charm makes it a pleasure to drink without ceremony.

Try it with wild mushroom pizza, tomato and basil pasta, grilled eggplant with Parmesan or a generous plate of pappardelle with porcini. Roast chicken with rosemary, grilled lamb cutlets or a selection of Tuscan cheeses would also be excellent companions. 

Cellaring: Drink now to 2031. Most appealing for its youthful fruit and freshness, although a few years in the cellar will develop additional savoury complexity.