Agostina Pieri Rosso di Montalcino 2023

Agostina Pieri Rosso di Montalcino 2023

Agostina Pieri
$24.00

Grape: Sangiovese
Vintage: 2023
Type: Red

Produced in the southern hills of Montalcino, this red wine is made exclusively from hand-harvested sangiovese grapes. The estate manages its vineyards to achieve a balance between fruit density and natural freshness, allowing the regional clay soils to speak. Spontaneous fermentation occurs with native yeasts, followed by a period of aging in traditional large oak casks. This disciplined wood regimen builds structural stability while avoiding heavy wood flavors that could overpower the varietal identity.

It shows a bright ruby color, opening with aromas of crushed cherries, blood orange, and dried flowers. The medium-bodied palate is juicy and succulently structured, showcasing flavors of ripe raspberry and savory spices. Soft, integrated tannins provide a smooth frame that remains approachable early in its life. A clean, central thread of acidity keeps the profile lively and refreshing across mid-palate. It finishes long and dry, leaving a clear impression of red plum and flinty soil.

When Agostina and her son, Francesco Monaci, established Pieri in 1991, they had little idea where the project would take them. But the potential was enormous: the family’s land was in the prized southern edge of Montalcino’s plateau, and Francesco’s uncle was famed producer and former consorizo president, Giancarlo Pacenti.

Pieri’s seven-hectare vineyard is perfectly situated, with a full southern exposure that allows for consistent ripeness and balance in its old, low-vigor Sangiovese clones. Grapes are harvested by hand and strictly sorted to eliminate substandard fruit. Fermentations take 25-30 days in vat and stainless steel before racking into large Slavonian oak casks and used French demi-muids.

Interestingly, this is one domaine that takes great pride in its Rosso, treating it as an equal interpretation of Montalcino’s terroir. Unlike many estates that view Rosso as a lesser Brunello, Pieri aims to make an excellent Rosso in each vintage, and only produces Brunello when select fruit offers the structure for longer aging.