Harbinger Rosso 2015

Standing on the summit overlooking a hill surrounded by holly oaks, cypress trees, flourishing vineyards and olive groves is the little town of Sant’Angelo in Colle that Il Poggione calls home.  Here the Franceschi family have been wine growers and farmers since the end of the 19th century. Today the estate is run by Leopoldo Franceschi who continues the traditional practices of the estate as he was taught. With winemaker Alessandro Bindocci at the helm, Il Poggione’s wines have never been better.

I’ve had the good fortune to taste with Alessandro on many occasions and his wines reflect his personality; humble yet confident.  Poised, but aggressive.  Sturdy yet graceful.   Today, Tenuta il Poggione covers approximately 1,300 acres though only 336 are devoted to vines while the balance is attributed to olive groves, grains and livestock.  The vineyards sit between 475 and 1,500 feet above sea level and are located just 6 miles from the center of Montalcino.

~ The Tenuta il Poggione estate is one of the more picturesque in Montalcino ~

~ In 2004, Il Poggione completed a new wine cellar with vinification and storage areas located below ground ~

Today we’re looking at the newest release from this classic winery.   The 2015 Rosso di Montalcino is a shimmering medium ruby in the glass with loads of violet reflections.  Like some of the other 2015s I’ve already discussed, vitality and freshness leap to mind when discussing this wine.  That said, this Rosso walks a fine line.  The aromas are delicate but not faint.  Raspberry and vanilla aromas frame the nose of the wine while salume and spices make supporting appearances.

On the palate, the wine is medium bodied and very elegant.  Ripe berry notes are juicy and fresh and accented with fresh herb, dusty white pepper and soft sandalwood notes.  Like its 2o12 sibling, given the structure of the vintage, Bindocci chose to age the wine in a combination of large botte and barrique for up to 14 months before a short bottle maturation.  With soft tannins and acidity deftly balanced, this is a Rosso that will easily cellar well for 5-7 years from the vintage date and provide wonderful drinking while the more substantial wines in your cellar mature.  91 points.  Price varies, but this can be found for under $20 and the value is compelling in that range.  Find this wine.

~ This classic Rosso di Montalcino is worth putting 3-4 bottles or more in your cellar for drinking over the next 5 years ~

We’ve got more reviews planned for the 2015s being released to the market.  Stay tuned!