Country: Italy  Region: Tuscany   Vintage: 2020 Category: Red Wine  Color:  Red Producer: Marilisa Allegrini Grapes for this wine come from hillside vineyards in the Montalcino area, and are grown at altitudes between 300-450 metres above sea level. The altitudes provide some relief from the hotter summer temperatures which can hit the region. The vineyards face south, and this exposure means vineyards enjoy excellent levels of sunshine. Soils there are rich in calcium and clay. Winter was mild and very dry, as was the spring. This led to bud burst occurring about two weeks earlier than normal. The frost that came in the middle of April caused enormous damage across much of Europe, but thanks to the location of San Polo's vineyards, with their southern exposure, altitude and abundant air circulation, their vines suffered no damage. The summer that followed was marked by elevated temperatures and almost no rain, which created difficult conditions for the vines. Again, at this stage, San Polo appreciated the advantages of a particularly well-suited wine growing area, which enjoyed daytime breezes and excellent day to night temperature variations, creating conditions which gave the vines some relief and allowed them to avoid symptoms of heat-related stress. The rain that fell at the end of August and the beginning of September not only restored the land's water reserves, but also gave the Sangiovese the boost it needed at the most important stage of its ripening.   Vinification: Grapes were hand harvested during the second half of September. After careful selection of the bunches, soft pressing took place and cryomaceration followed. Fermentation then took place in stainless steel at 28/30°C for 5-6 days. The wine was aged in stainless steel tanks for 10 months and then for four months in bottle before release. Tasting Notes: Brilliant ruby red in colour, this wine opens with intense and persistent aromas of red cherries, violets and blackcurrants, followed by subtle spicy notes. This wine is well-structured and balanced with satisfying tannins and excellent length. The flavours of forest fruits and cherries make Rubio easy to drink, yet still intense and elegant. Food Suggestion: various cold cuts, salami, pasta dishes, sausages, grilled meats and medium-matured cheeses such as the renowned Tuscan pecorino. Closure:  Natural Cork  ABV: 14%