Rosso di Montalcino DOC 2023

Wine Description for Rosso di Montalcino DOC 2023 by Salicutti

Character

The Rosso di Montalcino from Salicutti embodies youthful freshness and uncomplicated elegance. As the younger sibling of the renowned Brunello, this wine offers an authentic insight into the Sangiovese expression of this extraordinary vineyard site, yet with shorter maturation and thus earlier drinking pleasure. Francesco Leanza runs the small winery with an uncompromising signature – traditional, purist and without oenological tricks.

Terroir & Origin

Salicutti manages only five hectares of vineyard on the eastern side of Montalcino, in one of the cooler sites of the appellation. The calcareous soils and the altitude of around 500 metres lend the wines particular finesse and minerality. The 2023 vintage benefited from a balanced growing cycle that offered ideal ripening conditions for the Sangiovese grape. This hillside site produces wines that are less opulent, but rather more tense and lively than many of their neighbours.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Sangiovese Grosso reveals its true character here: cherry-fruited, earthy, lively. Salicutti vinifies using traditional methods with spontaneous fermentation and extended maceration, ageing takes place in large wooden barrels. The Rosso matures for a shorter period than the Brunello – usually around one year – and may be sold from the second year after harvest. This philosophy preserves the primary fruit and the characteristic Sangiovese acidity that gives this wine structure and drinking flow.

Food Pairing Suggestions

An ideal companion to Tuscan everyday cuisine: Pasta al Ragù, Ribollita, Bistecca alla Fiorentina or grilled vegetables with olive oil. This wine also harmonises beautifully with Pecorino cheese at different stages of maturity or mushroom dishes. The lively acidity makes it the perfect food companion.