Il Poggione was one of the first estates to bottle Brunello in the late 19th century. The medieval township of Montalcino, one of the most photographic areas in Italy, has grown grapes for more than 500 years. Today, the original estate owners, the Franceschi family of Florence, work closely with fourth and fifth generation winemakers, Fabrizio Bindocci and his son Alessandro.
The 2008 Il Poggione Rosso Di Montalcino is 100 percent Sangiovese. It is nicknamed the “baby Brunello” because it is a bigger and younger version of its predecessor, Il Poggione Brunello Montacino. The Rosso is a soft, floral wine, ruby red in color, with an intense bouquet of wild berry fruit. The palate is approachable, velvety, and rich, with great structure and smooth tannins. Salute!
Both the Il Poggione Rosso and the Brunello Di Montalcino are available at Byerly’s in Maple Grove. Check for special holiday pricing.
— Wine information is courtesy of Mary Beth Gallagher, a wine sales specialist for a Twin Cities fine wine distributor. She works with several restaurants in Maple Grove.
