Brothers Enrico and Dario Pierazzuoli run two properties in Tuscany. One is in Carmignano, known to us as “Le Farnete.” The other is in Chianti Montalbano, bottled locally under the traditional rooster label. Unfortunately, here in the States, we cannot use the Italian word for rooster in wine marketing, as a California vinous powerhouse copywrites the name. So, they use their name for our market for these wines. The 2019 vintage in Tuscany was outstanding, and the Pierazzuoli Chianti Montalbano Riserva is a special wine. Made from 100% Sangiovese, it is a deep, dark, concentrated Chianti. Its ethereal aromas are an amalgam of brooding black and purple fruit, fine suede, earth, tobacco, and clove. The palate is medium to full-bodied, and the finish is concentrated, long, and seamless. We know it says Chianti Riserva, not Brunello, though both are made of 100% Sangiovese. One can feel the similarities between the two by tasting a bottle of the 2019 Chianti Montalbano Riserva from Pierazzuoli. It’s best paired with hearty Italian dishes and rich, zesty red sauces.
