Belguardo Rosato 2024

Belguardo Rosato 2024, the Mazzei duo in pink

I appreciate in this rosé the blend of two grape varieties, Tuscan and Rhône, combined in equal parts, along with a profile that is both fruity and fresh. Its cherry-pink color catches the eye, while the citrus and small red fruits give it a gourmet expression, without masking a subtle herbal note. A wine I recommend for its frankness and balance.

The Maremma, between vines and Mediterranean breeze

Belguardo Rosato is produced by the Mazzei family at the Belguardo estate, in the south of the Maremma, in Tuscany. The family acquired this estate and strengthened the cultivation of the vines that had been planted there. The Mediterranean Sea is less than ten kilometers away: sea winds and the temperature differences between day and night are among the local conditions taken into account for the ripeness of the grapes. The wine is presented as IGP Toscana.

The 2024 vintage blends 50% Sangiovese and 50% Syrah. This union relies in particular on the Sangiovese from Belguardo's original vines and on Syrah clones from the northern Rhône. To preserve the expression of each grape variety, the grapes are harvested by hand, in small weekly sequences, then destemmed and crushed. Maceration is brief: one hour for the Syrah, two for the Sangiovese. Fermentation takes place at low temperature in stainless steel tanks, without malolactic fermentation, then the two wines are blended. The blend then rests for three months.

In the glass, the cherry-pink color is the first impression. The nose opens on citrus, raspberries and strawberries, with a touch of herbs that adds a slight relief. On the palate, freshness mingles with an enveloping texture; the fruit remains expressive and the whole maintains a pleasant balance between richness and liveliness. The finish prolongs the flavors without weighing down the tasting. I would choose it if you are looking for a legible, fruity rosé that is easy to share, rather than a wine dominated by power.

At the table, from vegetables to spicy dishes

I would serve it as an aperitif, where its fresh and fruity character simply accompanies the start of a meal, or with vegetables and spicy dishes. The Sangiovese-Syrah duo gives it enough presence to hold its own at the table, while its freshness keeps the pairing supple. You can also offer it at a convivial lunch where everyone nibbles and helps themselves at their own pace. Belguardo Rosato 2024 invites an unceremonious tasting: a glass to open when you feel like Tuscany, red fruits and a rosé that keeps a small herbal note in memory.