2010 Rubesco Riserva Monticchio

‘August temperatures were within the norm; harvesting of the early-ripening varietals was at  least 7–8 days later than for the 2009 harvest. September was cool with some rain showers alternating with days of very dry and windy weather, thereby prolonging the maturation of later-ripening varietals up to 15 days later. Overall the harvest could be considered “cool”. The wines are pleasant with very low pH, beautiful and intense hues with excellent staying power even as they age. One of the best vintages of the decade with perfectly ripe and healthy grapes which did not suffer from hydric stress or heatwaves. The resulting wines will have excellent ageing potential with fruity notes that are always unaltered and fresh and structure  that is balanced and harmonious.’ 100% Sangiovese. Harvest: second half of September to the beginning of October. Vinification: fermentation in stainless steel with 15–20 days of maceration on skins. Maturation: about 1 year in oak barriques; after a light filtration it then matured for 4 years in bottle. Deep, lustrous, youthful ruby. White-pepper and iodine notes with hints of mint over minerally raspberry and cherry fruit. Impressive richness on the nose but at the same time contained. Compact and still-embryonic fruit on the palate with layers and layers of finely grained tannins adding a fine yet firm structure. Lots of energetic acidity melting into the finish. (WS)