2000 Rubesco Riserva Monticchio

‘A very dry season with rare showers, even during springtime (except for the month of March); budding was early with a hot summer except for an unusual temperature drop in the second and third weeks of July, with favourable diurnal ranges accompanying veraison; hot spells occurred in early summer and at the end of summer reaching significantly high temperatures. In September sporadic showers cooled the air resulting in excellent diurnal shifts. This was the first vintage in which the company collaborated with [French consultant oenologist] Professor Denis Dubourdieu.’ 70% Sangiovese, 30% Canaiolo. Harvest: second half of September. Vinification: fermentation in stainless steel with 25 days of maceration on skins; hourly pumping over. Maturation: in French oak barriques for approximately 12 months; it then rested for 3.5 years in bottle and was released approximately five and a half years from harvest. Dark, almost impenetrable ruby with just the beginning of orange tinges. Gorgeous nose suggesting this is approaching its peak only very slowly. White pepper, deep raspberry and a suggestion of liquorice. Supple, concentrated fruit cut through by energetic juicy acidity and superfine deep tannins clinging to the fruit. Poised and very long. Great transparency. (WS)