Originally planted by Louis M. Martini, the Monte Rosso Vineyard is on of California's iconic estates. Long known as an outstanding source for Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel, producers from Ridge to Rosenblum among many, have made great wines from this vineyard. However, until last weekend's Sonoma Valley Vintners Holiday Fair, I had no idea that there was Sangiovese in this vineyard.
They do and you need to seek this wine out. Smoky, dark fruit with traces of block pepper, what really struck me was the firm acidity that was more typical of a great Brunello rather than a Cal Italia knock off. Never having been a great fan of the California versions of Italian varietals this one breaks the stereotype.
This is not a California knock off of Chianti Classico, but a great wine that has echos of a classic Brunello. Great stuff, and at $35 per bottle via the Muscardini web site, it is better than most Brunellos in that price range. It will go great with almost any Italian food, from assertive pasta to Italian style grilled meats. As a note, Muscardini also makes a Zinfandel from Monte Rosso as well.
No comments:
Post a Comment