Ciacci Piccolomini IGT Toscana Rosso (2024) 2024

Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona is one of the most sought-after names in Montalcino, an organically farmed estate in Castelnuovo dell'Abate run by the Bianchini family since the Countess who gave it its name left it to them in 1985. Their Brunellos are benchmarks; this Toscana Rosso is the easiest, most affordable way into the house style. It earns the "baby Brunello" tag honestly. The wine is built from Sangiovese off the estate's younger plots - the same vineyards that feed the Rosso and Brunello - blended with a little Cabernet, Merlot and Syrah for flesh, and rounded out with a little of the fruit destined for the estate's other reds. Fermented in stainless steel and aged in concrete rather than oak, it's made to show fruit and freshness rather than structure. Expect bright red cherry and wild herbs, a little leather and a dusty, earthy edge - soft, medium-bodied and balanced, with the gentle grip of Sangiovese on the finish. A wine to open now, no cellaring required. Serve at 16-18°C.