2008 Poggo di Sotto, Rosso di Montalcino Tuscan Red, Italy.
This wine is frankly much more impressive than most Brunelli, and it drinks near perfectly, it is just the sticker shock when you think of Rosso di Montalcino, even if that is unfair to this fantastic Sangiovese. Usually you think of Rosso’s as nice table wine to drink young and would assume it was the second or lesser wine of the estate, and in 99% of the cases you’d be right, but this is not a wine that can be judged in that manner, even though it is a second wine, as it really is a masterpiece of pureness and complexity that will blow your mind. I must admit, I had high expectations after reading about this wine and hearing considerable buzz about their Brunello di Montalcino, but that even had not prepared me for the glorious experience of tasting the 2008 Poggio di Sotto, in fact I may have to revise my score up, as soon as I get over myself! The nose bursts to life with dried flowers, sweet herbs, fresh cherries, lavender and cassis before a vibrant palate of plum, dried currants, raspberry and complex herbs and spices with truffle, tobacco leaf and licorice. The silky tannins hold things taught and acidity keep things fresh, while a mineral note shows as classy as a fine Burgundy would and the finish goes on and on. Lingering violets, fig, plum sauce and cherries add to the delights on this stunning Tuscan red, forget the steep price and enjoy this gem, it is worth every hard earned cent.
($70-78 Est.) 94+ Points, grapelive
