J. G. Benda Rosso di Montalcino DOC 2023 1,5L

The 2023 Rosso di Montalcino magnum from J.G Benda is composed of grapes from several of the estate's high-altitude vineyards at around 500 meters, where the variation in soil types—galestro, red clay, and sandstone—provides a nuanced and precise expression of sangiovese.

The vintage was marked by a challenging spring and early summer with high rainfall, which reduced yields due to mildew and hail, particularly in Pietrafocaia. Late summer and autumn were cooler and more stable, and harvesting took place in early October slightly before full ripeness to maintain freshness and balance. The result is a Rosso in a more classic style with lower alcohol and a particularly pure and harmonious expression.

In the glass, the wine presents a lively ruby red color and an aromatic profile of wild cherries, red berries, and fine floral nuances. The taste is balanced and precise with fresh acidity, silky fine tannins, and a persistent minerality that supports the wine's elegant structure.

The work in the vineyard is manual and focused, with grapes carefully sorted at harvest. After destemming, the must ferments spontaneously with the grapes' own yeast in stainless steel tanks. The fermentation in 2023 proceeded faster than usual, attributed to high activity of natural yeasts, contributing to a clean expression with low volatile acidity. Maceration lasts 2-3 weeks, after which the wine is gently pressed and aged in large Slavonian and French oak barrels from Gabellotto (20-26 hl). The wine is aged without filtration and with minimal addition of sulfur.

This is a Rosso that already appears open and accessible, and pairs well with classic dishes of poultry, veal, or a simple pasta dish.

A total of 6,219 bottles and 185 magnums were produced.