12,000 to 15,000 bottles per year, aged in cellars dating to 1337 inside Montepulciano’s city walls — the only place in the world where wine matures within a historic city centre. The De’ Ricci Rosso di Montepulciano 2022 is the entry-level red from this historic estate, mostly Sangiovese with a touch of Merlot from 15-year-old vines.
Vinification
Grapes partially crushed, fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. 18-day maceration for optimal extraction of colour and structure without over-extraction. Brief aging in French barriques, then bottle aging.
Tasting notes
Expressive bouquet of raspberry and wild strawberry, with guarana, passionfruit and wild thyme. On the palate orange citrus and pink grapefruit, medium body, finely extracted tannins that give structure without overwhelming the fruit.
At the table
Drinks beautifully now. Classic pairing: pappardelle with wild boar ragù. Also bistecca, braised game dishes, aged Pecorino Toscano.
Verdict
An honest, clearly made Rosso that shows the Sangiovese character of Montepulciano. Not the complexity of the Vino Nobile or a Riserva, but the right introduction to the house style. Cellar potential well over a decade.
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