Biondi-Santi Rosso di Montalcino 2021 2022

Biondi-Santi Rosso 2022, three terroirs of Montalcino

In this Rosso di Montalcino, the sangiovese shows freshness and fruit, while oak aging brings balance without erasing its character. I like the idea of a wine that carries the memory of a historic estate, yet presents itself in a vibrant style, meant to be enjoyed right now.

A sangiovese rooted in the terroir of Montalcino

Classified as DOC Rosso di Montalcino, this wine is made from sangiovese grown in the Biondi-Santi vineyards. The grapes come from three sectors of the estate: Tenuta Greppo, southeast of Montalcino, Ribusuoli, located downhill, and Pievecchia, north of the commune. Each of these plots contributes to the identity of the wine and reflects the diversity of the appellation's lands.

The history of this cuvée goes back to the time when it was known as Brunello White Label, in reference to its white label. It took the name Rosso di Montalcino in 1983, when the DOC appellation was created. It follows the vision of Clemente Santi and his grandson Ferruccio, carried on by the estate for nearly a century and a half. In the cellar, fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, with maceration on the skins to extract aromas and structure. The wine then spends twelve months in twelve oak barrels from Slavonia.

The available notes describe a red wine with a perfumed, fruity and vibrant profile, where freshness remains in the foreground. Barrel aging aims for elegance and balance, without masking the fruit. The tasting thus evokes an expressive sangiovese, with measured oak presence and a firm structure, but without any announced heaviness. The color is not detailed in the tasting information, so I prefer to stick to what is described rather than attribute color nuances to it.

At the table, between cured meats and aged cheeses

I would serve it with charcuterie or aged cheeses, two pairings that work well with its fruit and structure. Foie gras is also among the suggested pairings: an idea worth trying if you want a richer contrast. It is a bottle to open when you feel like discovering Montalcino in an accessible expression faithful to sangiovese, without waiting for a great occasion. The vintage described here is 2022; the available information does not specify separate tasting notes for 2021.