La Lecciaia - Rosso di Toscana, IGT, Italy (2019)

TASTING NOTES

Ruby garnet red in colour, with a slight amber rim. Earthy aromas of dark cherries, plum, smoke, and spices. Medium-bodied, and lively on the palate. Smooth tannins and a long finish with burnt orange peel and roasted tomatoes. With a slightly closed nose initially, this may need a few minutes to open up.

Traditional red wine fermentation, with some time in large oak barrels (botti). The Sangiovese for this wine was taken out of the ageing track for Brunello at about 2 years after harvest, however it does exhibit some of the characteristics of extended-aged Sangiovese, at a really good price. The Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon were added prior to bottling.

The vineyards and winery are situated in Vallafrico, bordering some of the oldest and most prestigious vineyards of Montalcino. The land extends to over 60 hectares: 15 hectares of which are under vine, and more than half of that is used for the production of Brunello. 

Mr Pacini purchased the property in 1983, and the winery has been rebuilt and is equipped with modern winemaking technology. Yet La Lecciaia still adheres to the old traditions.

Sadly Mr Pacini passed away in 2020, and now the winery is managed by his son and daughter - Alessandra and Riccardo.