When we released the 2007 Muscardini Sangiovese, we were completely unprepared for how popular it was going to be, and our allocation sold out quickly. Luckily, we were able to secure an allocation of Muscardini’s 2008 Sangiovese, sourced from one of Sonoma’s great vineyards, Monte Rosso, high above the Sonoma Valley in the Mayacamas Mountains. With iron rich soils, Western exposure for maximum sunlight, and high elevation to keep temperatures down, this is an intriguing site for Sangiovese, and if this wine is any indication, a potentially great site for this tricky varietal as well.
Medium ruby in color, the 2008 Monte Rosso Sangiovese offers beautiful aromas of black cherry, raspberry, slate, damp earth, and tobacco leaf. This combination of fresh fruit and earthy flavors is one of Sangiovese’s signatures, and is on display wonderfully in this wine. The palate echoes cherry flavors from the nose, along with blackberry, vanilla, and a spicy, almost floral undertone. Medium bodied, with a silky mouth-feel and a lively, vibrant finish, this is a lovely example of Old World meets New, resulting in a wine perfect for enjoying ever so slightly chilled on warm summer evenings, or a little warmer on cold winter nights. Sangiovese always seems to work with tomato-based dishes, but this one has an extra, earthy element that makes me think it would pair beautifully with venison or rabbit. Don’t miss your chance to stock up on this low production, versatile and unique wine!
Cases Produced: 559
Harvested: September 18, 2008
Bottled: August 27th, 2009
pH: 3.65
Alcohol: 14.6
94 Points
Opens up with an aromatic burst of black cherry jam, wild huckleberry, and a hint of crushed espresso bean. On the palate, the fruit is lush and primary, but it's the secondary notes—toasted nutmeg, dark chocolate truffle, and the signature 'Dry Creek Dust'—that provide a long, savory finish.
95 Points
Aromas of wild berries, black fig and ripe dark fruits are intertwined with hints of fresh mountain herbs, mineral, leather, savory spices, and cigar box. On the palate, the rich fruit flavors of dark cherry, ripe plum, blackberry, red currants and cassis are layered with notes of wild sage, dark chocolate truffle, cinnamon, clove, and a kiss of oak.
96 Points
Aromas of blackberry, black cherry, huckleberry, floral violet and savory spice. The palate is full and layered, with robust, age-worthy tannins and gorgeous flavors of dark berries, mocha and chocolate-covered cherries mingling with hints of graphite, fig and fine leather. Smooth tannins, firm structure and silky texture coat the palate on route to a long, generous finish.
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