Montecucco Rosso DOC
WINE RATING: 84 Points / Luca Maroni
Annuario dei Migliori Vini Italiani 2008
(Annual Journal of the Best Italian Wines 2008)
- Country: Italy
- Region: Tuscany
- District: Maremma
- Varietals: 100% Sangiovese
- Varietals: Single vineyard and vintage
- Alcohol: 13.0%
- Aging: Minimum 9 months in French oak barrels and refined minimum 3 months in bottle
- Bottle: 750ml
Winemaker: Cantine Bonacchi La Sassaia
Wine Notes:
The Maremman land which is highly regarded for the extraordinary quality of its wines, find fame and celebrity at both a national and international level. Some of the more famous wines include the Montecucco Rosso DOC and Morellino di Scansano DOCG, produced with Sangiovese grapes.
Located in the southern part of Tuscany, in the wonderful territory of Alta Tuscia Latium, the Maremma is seen as an absolutely splendid and magical land, incredibly rich in a history marked by the ancient presence of the Etruscans and Romans who built their cities here and left incredible testimonies of their lifestyle through numerous ruins and the remains of various constructions and fortifications.
The Maremma is considered as one of the most beautiful and charming lands in Tuscany and indeed, the entire Italian territory, recognized as a wonderful treasure chest of nature and environment. In fact, its landscapes are uniquely composed of the sea, with its fascinating Tyrrhenian coast; the mountains, with its impressive Monte Amiata; the central hills, home to numerous splendid and fascinating villages; and the plains, with its rivers and fields that turn a striking golden yellow during the summer.
The soil of the Maremma consists predominantly of fragmented sandstone, to which characteristically is added the lava composites from the age when Mt. Amiata still was an active volcano. The lava presence gives the vines a mineral character and tastiness typical for the area. Add to this a mild climate, with warm summers and winters and average amount of rain, and you have ideal factors for a splendid grape maturation, even in less advantaged vintages.
Winemaker Notes:
The wine is made of 100% Sangiovese, known locally as Montecucco, and is from from the ancient La Sassaia vineyards. Fermentation starts with 15 day maceration that creates the wonderfully elegant, rich, full body that is characteristic of this wine. At sight a deep ruby red color. The nose is full, wide, fruit forward, with clear persistent characteristics. The flavor is warm with excellent structure with soft well balanced tannins followed by a long lasting, smooth persistent finish.
Wines from this appellation are usually suited to moderate aging and may also be drunk young.
At its best when opened 45 minutes or longer prior to serving.
Pairing:
This is a smooth yet robust wine suitable to serve with strongly flavored dishes, roasted or grilled meats.
Price: $19.98
