There are few people in the world who can boast about the fact that they are the 30th generation of Tuscan winemakers and that their family has been involved in making wine since the 13th century. Lamberto Frescolbaldi of Marchesi is too modest and humble for that, but his achievements in Tuscan winemaking are a testament to family’s continuing success. With seven estate properties spread throughout Tuscany, Lamberto professes that his wines are trying to capture the uniqueness and diversity of each place. "In the last 20 years there has been a great evolution. To explain, there is something beyond sweetness, beyond oak and there are layers of aromas. The moment you focus and enjoy what you are tasting, you are doing a trip around the world eating a certain dish and tasting a certain wine."

This property in Montalcino is near Siena and was purchased by the Frescobaldi's in 1989. Situated at an elevation of nearly 1,000 feet, these vineyards are planted in galestro soils with a warm southwestern exposure. The wine has a glistening ruby garnet hue with fresh aromas of dried cherry, rose petals and wild herbs. On the palate there is a mosaic of mature undertones with red plum, tart cherry, pomegranate and earth with hints of crushed minerality in the silky background. As you delve deeper into the wine, there are gentle underpinnings of savory spices and dried tea leaf. The finish is caressing and lengthy. This wine invites to take a leisurely journey through the rolling hills of Montalcino in Tuscany.

By W Peter Hoyne