2022 Il Poggione - Rosso di Montalcino DOC (750ml)

Tenuta Il Poggione was founded in the late nineteenth century by Lavinio Franceschi in Sant'Angelo in Colle, and the estate remains one of the original three producers credited with establishing Brunello di Montalcino. It's now run by the fifth generation of the Franceschi family, with longtime estate manager Fabrizio Bindocci, who joined in 1976 and later took on winemaking as well, now working alongside his son Alessandro. The property spans 1,500 acres, with 350 planted to vine at elevations reaching 1,500 feet, and includes Vigna Paganelli, one of Montalcino's oldest vineyards, planted in 1964.

Unlike some Rosso bottlings that function as a simple second label, Il Poggione's comes from a distinct set of parcels vinified separately from the fruit destined for Brunello. The wine ages about twelve months across a combination of small and large oak casks, followed by roughly six more months resting in bottle before release.

The 2022 shows a deep ruby, almost magenta color, with aromas of black cherry, violet, and sweet herbs layered over plum and gentle spice. The palate is medium to full bodied and plush, with ripe tannins closing on an iron-tinged, mineral finish. It pairs well with pasta in meat sauce, grilled sausages, or firm cheeses.