Selciaia Rosso di Montepulicano 2004
Italy, Tuscany, Montepulciano ($10)
If I have to wait more than 30 minutes for a delivery pizza I prefer to place the order, then walk to the corner liquor store for a bottle. Most likely I will be looking for an Italian red under $10. I don't like any of the Montepulciano D'Abruzzo bottles at this particular store so that takes care of that. A best buy Chianti would do but there's nothing exciting about that. This time I was torn between a Nero d'Avola or a new addition there of a Rosso Di Montepulciano. I've commonly seen Vino Noble Di Montepulciano around but the plain old rosso version is something I don't usually find.
This Tuscan Sangiovese based red was aged in French oak barriques for 120 days. The name Selciaia comes from the flinty soils located at the family-owned Fassati vineyard estate. The label looks respectable enough. It says this wine pairs well with red meats, game, pasta with meat sauces, and cheeses. I had ordered a "grandma" style tray cheese pizza from the local pizza joint. I think this wine wanted a meaty topping though.
Ruby red in color. Aroma of cherries primarily. Somewhat fizzy texture I assume comes from its youth. Ripe red fruit flavor with notes of licorice. The taste is overly tart and not very complex. Short finish that left me wondering If I should have stayed away from such a young vintage. My grade: C+
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