Style Light red Old World Country Italy Price $12
Vintage tasted 2006 Grapes Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
Website www.monteanticowine.com

Overview Once upon a time, most serious producers in Tuscany adhered rigidly to the region’s strict guidelines, which stipulated that high-level reds be made of regional grapes (mainly Sangiovese). Then it was discovered that wines that included international varieties such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon could be sold for enormous sums, even if they were legally designated as IGT or table wines—and so was born the so-called “Super Tuscan.” While the Monte Antico red is below the price point associated with the name, and is thankfully less concentrated as well, it does take the Super Tuscans as its model.

Nose Our blind tasters identified dirt, black cherry, smoke, and leather.

Mouth There are more cherries here, along with earth, herbs, and a nice hit of tannin.