Castello Banfi, Rosso di Montalcino (Tuscany, Italy) 2009

 Rosso di Montalcino is often unfairly called a “Baby Montalcino,” when it is a very nice wine in its own right.  Generally younger than Brunello di Montalcino and a lot less expensive, The Rosso is 100% Sangiovese aged for 12 months in French oak, partially in barriques and partially in large oak casks.  It has a lovely bright medium ruby color, truffles and tobacco leaf accents with low intensity berry on the nose.  The flavors are fresh and ripe berry supported by big refined tannins, 13% alcohol and a long chewy finish with loads of fruit.