The2019 vintage started early and ended later than normal. Spring saw good levels of rainfall which helped maintain water storage levels ready for the warmer months. Summer was one of the hottest on record in Montalcino area. August was marked by cooler temperatures and some rain that replenished water reserves. This uneven trend continued until the harvest, which turned out to be one of the latest in recent years.
The fruit for the Rosso 2019 was sourced from estate vineyards of Ribusoli lying south-east of Montalcino and Pievecchia on the northern flank of Montalcino. The Rosso 2019 was aged in Slavonian oak barrels for 12 months. This wine was originally known as the Biondi-Santi “White Label Brunello”, but changed its name in 1983, when the Rosso di Montalcino DOC was established. It reflects the signature style of our high-altitude vineyards with a vibrant freshness and a distinct fruitiness which makes it thoroughly enjoyable at a young age.
94 points – James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com: “Aromas of sliced citrus, cherry and flowers follow through to a medium body, with creamy tannins and crunchy fruit at the finish. Lovely combination of fruit and acidity. Very drinkable now but will age nicely.”
92 points – Eric Guido, Vinous: “The 2019 Rosso di Montalcino keeps me coming back to the glass to take in its dusty mix of dried strawberries and currants offset by lifting nuances of shaved pine and mint. Soft and round in expression, the 2019 impresses on its lush textures and vivid wild berry fruit. Through it all, a core of saline tension builds, mingling minerals with gentle tannins, as the 2019 finishes with a staining of concentration, yet maintains a lovely freshness.”
16+ points – Tom Parker MW, JancisRobinson.com: “A bright ruby colour in the glass, this is immediate and fragrant, offering dried rose, cherry blossom, cigar leaf and dried herbs. The palate is gentle but characterful, with lightly pithy tannins and bright acidity to prop up layers of sour cherry and rosemary. Good finesse, focused length. A good introduction to Biondi-Santi’s style.”
