Castello Banfi, Rosso di Montalcino (Tuscany, Italy) 2011

The best Rosso di Montalcino, such as this one, can truly be considered “baby” Brunello. Though they lack the complexity of Brunello, they are ready to drink sooner, provide a hint of the grandeur of the bigger brother, and are far easier on the wallet. Banfi has always produced a fine Rossi di Montalcino. This one, a result of their decades of research on which clones of Sangiovese grow best in Montalcino and the establishment of their Poggio alle Mura vineyard, is a cut above their regular one. Indeed, it’s a cut above most everyone’s Rosso. The 2011 Poggio alle Mura Rosso is only Banfi’s second vintage and is the first one imported into the U.S. We should all be happy it’s finally reached out shores. This Rosso has Banfi’s hallmark polish and class, but most importantly, it gives you an introduction to the beauty of Brunello — at half the price — with a combination of cherry-like fruit from Sangiovese and dark earthy minerality from Montalcino. A serious wine, you can enjoy it now with a hearty pasta dish or a grilled veal chop.