# Donatella Cinelli Rosso di Montalcino (2021)

- **Producer:** Donatella Cinelli Colombini
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €27
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, red plum, red cherry, cloves, vanilla, leather, earth

## About this wine

The Donatella Cinelli Rosso di Montalcino 2021 is a 100% Sangiovese from the Rosso di Montalcino DOC in Tuscany. Produced by Donatella Cinelli Colombini, the wine is a reflection of her pioneering spirit and commitment to gender equality in wine, exemplified by the 'Prime Donne' project. The estate's vineyards in Montalcino are farmed using sustainable and organic practices. The 2021 vintage benefited from favorable weather conditions, contributing to the wine's character. This Rosso di Montalcino stands out for its purity and elegance, embodying the world-class virtues of Sangiovese from its esteemed region.

## Interesting facts

- The 'Prime Donne' project features an all-female winemaking team.
- Vineyards are certified organic since 2018.
- Donatella's great-grandfather co-founded the Brunello di Montalcino consortium.
- The 2021 vintage received 4 Tralci from the AIS Vitae guide.

## Food pairing

The wine's balanced acidity and medium tannins complement the richness of red meats and savory sauces, cutting through fat and cleansing the palate. The fruit-forward character of the Sangiovese harmonizes with tomato-based sauces and earthy flavors found in traditional Tuscan dishes.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Donatella Cinelli Rosso di Montalcino 2021 begins with hand-harvested grapes, carefully selected and placed in small crates. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats and cement tanks, employing techniques like pumping over and cap breaking for gentle extraction of polyphenols. The wine is then aged for a minimum of 12 months in large stainless steel vats, followed by 6 months in Slavonian oak barrels, and a further 6 months in bottle. The producer's approach prioritizes minimal intervention, aiming to preserve the vineyard's natural expression. Sustainable and organic farming practices are integral to the estate's operations, with official organic certification achieved in 2018.