Product Description:
Youthful Sangiovese with serious pedigree. Canalicchio di Sopra’s 2020 Rosso di Montalcino is a masterclass in how expressive, food-friendly and vibrant young Sangiovese can be. Sourced primarily from the estate’s younger vines in the prized northern zones of Canalicchio and Montosoli, this magnum-sized release channels the same DNA as their age-worthy Brunello, but with an upfront charm that’s ready to pour.
The 2020 vintage brings lifted florals, energetic red fruit and a savoury, balsamic thread—thanks to a growing season that delivered excellent ripeness and balance. This is no simple “second wine”; it’s a snapshot of terroir-driven precision, aged in traditional Slavonian oak and crafted with the same hands that shape their flagship Brunello.
Ideal with anything from grilled meats to mushroom risotto, it’s a standout pick for dinner parties or cellaring short-term. This 1.5L format makes it all the more shareable.
The Maker
Founded by Primo Pacenti in 1962, Canalicchio di Sopra has been a family-run estate for over six decades. In 1987, Primo was joined by his son-in-law Pier Luigi Ripaccioli, and since 2001, Pier Luigi's children—Francesco, Simonetta, and Marco—have taken the helm. The estate produces both Rosso di Montalcino and Brunello di Montalcino, drawing from the esteemed Canalicchio and Montosoli parcels on the northern side of Montalcino, which together total 19 hectares of vineyards.
The soils in the Canalicchio parcels are predominantly clay with pebbles and a strong mineral content, resulting in wines with aromatic intensity, opulence, and minerality. The Casaccia parcel is particularly notable for its extraordinary elegance, latent power, balance, and silky tannins, which often see it bottled separately. The Rosso di Montalcino is made from the estate's younger vineyards and represents the winery's calling card—a fresh, fruity, and versatile expression of Sangiovese. The first vintage was produced in 1975, when it was still referred to as "Red Wine from Brunello vines.
"The soils in the Canalicchio parcels are predominantly clay with pebbles and a strong mineral content, resulting in wines with aromatic intensity, opulence, and minerality. The Casaccia parcel is particularly notable for its extraordinary elegance, latent power, balance, and silky tannins, which often see it bottled separately. The Rosso di Montalcino is made from the estate's younger vineyards and represents the winery's calling card—a fresh, fruity, and versatile expression of Sangiovese. The first vintage was produced in 1975, when it was still referred to as "Red Wine from Brunello vines."
Philosophy
For over 50 years, Canalicchio di Sopra has pursued the quest for elegance, which lies at the core of their winemaking philosophy. From cultivating their own Cru vineyards to choosing unique microclimates that naturally limit grape yields, every step is taken with care and precision to highlight the distinctive characteristics of their terroir.The estate focuses solely on Sangiovese, embracing the grape’s ability to express the unique traits of their Canalicchio and Montosoli vineyards. By working closely with these differences in terrain, exposure, and microclimates, Canalicchio di Sopra has built a strong identity, defined by their classical yet distinct wines. Their 19 hectares of vineyards yield wines that are elegant, powerful, mineral-rich, and refreshing, with notable acidity and purity—a true reflection of the land, climate, and people who shape them.
Tasting Notes
NOSE
– Fresh and aromatic
Wild cherry, violet, dried herbs and a balsamic lift.
PALATE
– Bright and structured
Juicy red berries meet fine tannins and a mineral core.
FINISH
– Savoury and elegant
Lively acidity carries notes of cranberry, forest floor and spice.
Reviews & Accolades
“The 2020 Rosso di Montalcino offers a very pretty bouquet of pure raspberries, a hint of anise, pepper spice, and gravelly earth. Medium-bodied, it’s light on its feet with ripe tannins and a great finish. A wonderfully elegant wine.” – Audrey Frick, Wine Enthusiast, 92+/100
“The 2020 Rosso di Montalcino is deep, dark and almost sensual in the glass, as black cherries and minty herbs give way to hints of worn leather and spice. It coasts along the palate with silken waves of ripe red berries, kept in balance by saline-tinged acids. Rosy florals and licorice linger on the refined, fresh finish. Elegant beauty.” – Vinous, 92 Points
“The warm-vintage Canalicchio di Sopra 2020 Rosso di Montalcino is supple and rich. This wine shows rich fruit weight and soft aromas of baked cherry and plum.” – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, 91 Points
Finer Details:
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Sangiovese
Country - Italy
Region - Montalcino, Tuscany
Vintage - 2020
Bottle Size - 1.5L
ABV - 14.5%
Closure - Cork
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