2018 Cortonesi La Mannella Rosso di Montalcino is red wine produced from grapes grown on estate vineyards in the hills north of the village.  Two types of Sangiovese-based wines dominate production in this area – Rosso di Montalcino and Brunello di Montalcino. The differences between Rosso and Brunello are simple. Rosso is aged about 1 year and meant to be drunk while relatively young, Brunello is aged at least 5 years and increases in character over time when properly cellared.

Producer: Cortonesi, Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy. Cortonesi is a family-owned and operated winery that produces red wines from grapes grown around its cellar north of the village (La Mannella area) and from vineyards located not far away to the southeast (Poggiarelli).
Description: Full bodied red wine produced from 100% Sangiovese grapes. Designated DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata). Aged in French oak prior to bottle aging. Alcohol 14.5%.
Price: Retails around $25 – $30.

Tasting Notes

This wine is for those who enjoy: Italian reds that are good sips and pair well with hearty foods.
Appearance: Ruby red.
Aroma: Dark fruit medley and red cherries.
Taste: Soft on palate, dark berries well balanced.
Finish: Smooth tanins through the finish.
Pairing: Pasta with meat sauce, grilled or rotisserie meats, medium cheeses (Brie, Fontina, Gorgonzola,)

Reviewer relationship(s) with producer, distributor or retailer: None.