Derek Rohlffs Single Vineyard Dry Creek Valley Syrah 2020 vs Patrizia Cencioni, Rosso Di Montalcino 2021

Patrizia Cencioni, Rosso Di Montalcino 2021

This female star-studded cast of winemakers is an admirable family-run operation that dates back to 1989 when life force of the estate, Patrizia, decided she wanted to make Brunello. What was once a deteriorating property is now a winery buzzing with life and passion. Beyond the hectares of land freckled with olive groves are Sangiovese vines dedicated to producing Brunello di Montalcino. They aim for the highest quality, with all vineyards meant for Brunello production, whilst they also produce a hidden gem Rosso here that is effectively a "baby Brunello" for early drinking. The vineyards can be found in the southeast at a high altitude with soil composed of volcanic rock and compacted clay (or Galestro). They are harvested by hand and then fermented with indigenous yeasts.