The Wine of Poets

~ A poetic vista ~

Bottega, SPA is a large wine producer based in Conegliano about 45 kilometers North of Venice.  Traditionally a producer of Amarone, Valpolicella and Prosecco, Bottega has been expanding over the last few years and recently acquired vineyards in the Castelnuovo dell'Abate area of Montalcino.  

From 12 acres of vineyards, winemaker Andrea Agostinelli produces Brunello, Rosso di Montalcino and Sant'Antimo Rosso.  The Brunello will be featured as part of my larger report on the 2010s this Fall.  Today, we're focusing on the soon to be released 2014 Sant'Antimo Rosso. 

~ The Historic Abbet at Sant'Antimo ~

The 2014 Bottega Il Vino dei Poeti Sant'Antimo Rosso is an easy drinking red that will be accessible early in its evolution.   The wine is vinified in stainless steel, where the maceration lasts 10-15 days after which the wine is transferred to French Tonneaux for 12-14 months of barrel aging.   A blend of predominantly Sangiovese, with some added Colorino, the 2014 displays a medium ruby color all the way to the rim of the bowl.   From the glass, fresh aromas include strawberry, light forest floor notes and soft vanilla accents.  

On the palate, the wine is fresh and medium bodied.  Given the difficulty of the 2014 vintage, the amount of concentration to the strawberry and spice flavors is acceptable, but clearly not the best of what Montalcino and the surrounding area can produce.  Soft spice and toast notes appear on the finish.  A nice red for easy drinking, but nothing to contemplate.  Plumped up slightly with grilled karobuta pork chops and broccoli rabe. 84 points. SRP ~$12-$17  Disclosure:  This wine was a producer provide sample.

~ The Wine of Poets:  A good showing in a difficult vintage, but very representative of the struggle ~

Salute!