2024 Canalicchio di Sopra Rosso di Montalcino, Tuscany

From a top Brunello di Montalcino estate comes this Rosso – in effect, a more accessible version designed to be drunk sooner. Don't underestimate its dark cherry, spice and chocolate charms, backed up by plenty of herbal interest. Perfect for grilled meats

Decanter

Canalicchio di Sopra is one of Montalcino’s benchmark family estates, founded by Primo Pacenti in 1962 and now run by the third generation of the Ripaccioli family, including Francesco, Marco and Simonetta. The family was among the original members of the Brunello di Montalcino Consorzio, and its reputation has been built on beautifully detailed Sangiovese rather than cellar theatrics. The Rosso is especially interesting because it carries much of that serious vineyard pedigree into a wine designed to be enjoyed considerably earlier.

The 2024 Rosso is 100% Sangiovese, drawing on the estate’s vineyards around Canalicchio and the northern side of Montalcino. Clay, marl and mineral rich soils, together with the area’s elevation, give the variety fragrance, acidity and fine structure. Rosso spends less time ageing than Brunello, so the emphasis shifts towards juicy fruit and energy while retaining the savoury backbone that makes Montalcino unmistakable.

Bright ruby red with sour cherry, wild raspberry and redcurrant followed by violet and blood orange. Fennel, anise and sage add savoury detail, with black tea and a cool earthy note underneath. The palate is medium bodied and beautifully energetic, with pure red fruit, lively acidity and fine, gently dusty tannins. Cherry, orange peel and subtle spice linger through a dry, appetising finish.

Pici with porcini, brown butter and Parmigiano would disappear quickly beside it. Eggplant parmigiana, duck with lentils, white beans braised with tomato and sage or a crisp mushroom and pecorino pizza would be equally comfortable. Rosso like this is exactly why a bowl of pasta and a bottle of Sangiovese remain one of Italy’s better ideas.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2035.