This wine is deceptively simple until it is paired with a good steak – then the tannins kick in. The nose shows sweet cherry and violet. On the palate, though, the sweet turns to tart, with dried sour cherries, and leather. Some earthiness lingers. Tannins have a rustic grip. Drink with bistecca con salsa delle erbe. Recommended. 87 points. DBH.
WHO: Castello Banfi
WHAT: Sangiovese
DESIGNATION: Rosso di Montalcino
WHERE: Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino
WHEN: 2012
HOW MUCH: $25 (media sample)