# Colto Rosso di Montalcino DOC (2020)

- **Producer:** Castello Romitorio
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese
- **Region:** Tuscany, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €57
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, sour citrus, red plum, red cherry, black cherry, butter, cream, leather, tobacco, forest floor, earth

## About this wine

The Colto Rosso di Montalcino DOC 2020 from Castello Romitorio is a 100% Sangiovese wine from the Montalcino region of Tuscany. The name 'Colto' signifies a deliberate cultivation, reflecting the estate's approach. The grapes are sourced from the estate's vineyards, including a parcel of experimental clones, situated in the cooler northwestern part of Montalcino. Castello Romitorio was founded by artist Sandro Chia, whose artistic endeavors are integrated into the estate's identity, with his son Filippo Chia now involved in its management. The estate is committed to low-impact farming practices and began its path towards organic certification in 2020.

## Interesting facts

- 'Colto' means 'cultivated' or 'harvested' in Italian.
- The estate began its journey toward Organic certification in 2020.
- Artist Sandro Chia's work adorns the wine labels.
- Vineyards are situated at elevations ranging from 200 to 500 meters.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and medium-high tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and proteins, helping to cut through fat and cleanse the palate. The wine's acidity provides a refreshing counterpoint to savory dishes, while potential herbal or earthy notes can echo those found in classic Tuscan cuisine.

## Wine making process

The Colto Rosso di Montalcino DOC 2020 is produced from 100% Sangiovese grapes. Fermentation occurs in cement tanks, followed by natural malolactic fermentation. The wine is then aged in a combination of wood and cement, with specific aging noted in large oak barrels and second-pass tonneaux. The grapes are sourced from the estate's vineyards, including a dedicated parcel of experimental Sangiovese clones, situated in the cooler northwestern climate of Montalcino. The estate practices low-impact viticulture and began its transition towards organic certification in 2020.