Tucked between the picturesque landscapes of the Valle d'Arbia and the wild, sun drenched Valle d'Orcia lies the village of Montalcino. If you have ever had the occasion of visiting Siena and its environs, you would probably agree with me when I say that words cannot even begin to describe the splendor of this region. The hill upon which Montalcino sits is said to have first been settled during Etruscan times and the initial documents of a 'Brunello' red wine in the area date to the early 14th century. The reason I mention the above is because every once and a while, I come across a wine that embodies history in a glass, hence, my suggestion of Tenutua Friggiali's Rosso di Montalcino. Hailing from the much-adored 2004 vintage, this Rosso di Montalcino offers a glimpse of the early potential of Brunello's Sangiovese Grosso. Owned by the Peluso Centolani family (also landholders of Tenuta Pietranera), the vineyards of this estate lie on the southwest slope of Montalcino. The characteristics of the terroir of this region impart ample richness, acidity and great minerality to this red. With incredible balance and a vein of acidity that carries through its silky, red fruit palate, the layers of flavors of this young vine Brunello show elements of mineral, earth, tobacco, plum and wild raspberry. Rosso di Montalcino may live in the shadow of the more esteemed Brunello di Montalcino which matures slowly and regally, yet, do not neglect the appeal of one of Italy's most drinkable, complex and elegant Sangiovese bottlings!
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