Viniou Reviews
Podere Brizio’s Rosso di Montalcino 2016 is an inviting red wine from one of Italy’s most esteemed regions, made exclusively from Sangiovese, the noble grape of Tuscany. The 2016 vintage stands out for its particular freshness and harmony, resulting from a favourable growing season with balanced weather conditions. Vinified traditionally, the wine spends a short period in large oak barrels, which helps soften its youthful tannins and magnifies its vibrant fruit character. On the palate, expect notes of ripe cherry, wild red berries, delicate floral hints, and a subtle touch of spice, underpinned by a refined minerality characteristic of the Montalcino terroir.
Montalcino, located in southern Tuscany, is famed worldwide for its unique approach to Sangiovese and its exceptional ability to craft both prestigious Brunello and the more approachable Rosso di Montalcino. The terroir here is defined by a combination of galestro (marl) and limestone soils, providing the vines with excellent drainage and contributing to the wine’s elegance and structure. The Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and significant diurnal temperature shifts, allows for ideal ripening while preserving acidity and aromatic freshness. With a rich history tracing back to the Middle Ages, Montalcino has maintained its dedication to quality, making it an essential destination for any wine enthusiast.
For food pairing, Rosso di Montalcino’s vibrant acidity and supple tannins make it remarkably versatile. Enjoy it with classic Tuscan dishes such as wild boar ragù pappardelle or grilled bistecca alla fiorentina, as well as aged pecorino cheese and mushroom risotto. Its freshness also marries well with roasted poultry, herb-crusted pork loin, and even tomato-based dishes, thanks to the excellent balance of fruit and acidity.
To fully appreciate Podere Brizio’s Rosso di Montalcino 2016, serve it at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting for about half an hour is recommended to allow the wine to open up and reveal its nuanced aromatics and silky structure. This bottle can be enjoyed now for its youthful vibrancy or cellared for a few more years to develop further complexity.
