Fonterenza, Alberello 1,5 L 2018

Fonterenza Alberello 2018 in magnum is a captivating expression of Sangiovese from the hills of Montalcino, capturing both the grape’s innate finesse and the wild energy of its Tuscan home. Crafted by the Fonterenza sisters from vines trained in the traditional single-stake “alberello” system, it offers a more lifted, ethereal take on Sangiovese than their Rosso or Brunello. In this large-format 1.5 L bottle, the wine gains an extra dimension of harmony and aging grace.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the Alberello 2018 shows a vibrant, translucent ruby-red hue with garnet reflections at the rim, signaling both youth and subtle evolution. The nose is perfumed and precise, with a core of red cherry, wild strawberry and redcurrant layered with notes of blood orange zest, dried rose petals, fennel seed and a gentle dusting of Tuscan herbs and spice. On the palate, it is lighter on its feet than many Montalcino reds, yet still clearly Sangiovese: juicy red fruit flows over a fine, savory backbone, with hints of sour cherry, pomegranate, white pepper and a delicate, earthy minerality. The tannins are refined and powdery rather than burly, and the acidity is mouthwatering, giving the wine energy and lift. This 2018 is already highly enjoyable, but in magnum it has the structure to evolve beautifully over the next 8–12 years, gaining more tertiary notes of leather, dried flowers and forest floor while retaining its elegant frame.

Production
Alberello is sourced from Fonterenza’s organically and biodynamically farmed vineyards in the Montalcino area, where Sangiovese vines grow in a mix of galestro (friable marl), clay and limestone that lends both finesse and tension to the wine. The name references the traditional single-stake “alberello” training system used on some of the parcels, which naturally limits yields and concentrates flavor. Harvest is carried out by hand, with strict selection of bunches in the vineyard. Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts, usually in concrete or large neutral vessels, to preserve purity of fruit and a sense of place, followed by aging in large old oak casks (and/or neutral containers) to gently shape the tannins without adding overt wood influence. Minimal intervention and restrained sulfuring ensure that the character of Sangiovese and its terroir remains front and center.

Food & Serving
This elegant, lighter-bodied Sangiovese is a versatile table partner, particularly with dishes that highlight savory depth rather than sheer richness. Think classic Tuscan fare like pappardelle al ragù, grilled pork chops with rosemary, herb-roasted chicken, bistecca tagliata, or simple grilled lamb with olive oil and sea salt. It also marries beautifully with mushroom risotto, aged Pecorino Toscano, and charcuterie featuring finocchiona and prosciutto. Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to keep the aromatics vivid and the structure in balance. A gentle decant of 30–45 minutes can help the wine open up, especially in its youth, but in magnum it will also slowly unfurl over the course of a long meal.

Producer
Fonterenza is the project of twin sisters Francesca and Margherita Padovani, who settled in the southern reaches of Montalcino in the late 1990s with a clear vision: to farm Sangiovese with deep respect for nature and to let their vineyards speak with minimal cellar intervention. Working organically and along biodynamic principles from the outset, they quickly gained a following among sommeliers and enthusiasts for their intensely characterful, terroir-driven wines. While their Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino are now modern benchmarks of artisanal Sangiovese, cuvées like Alberello demonstrate their willingness to explore traditional training systems, small parcels and alternative expressions of the grape. Today, Fonterenza is regarded as one of the most thoughtful and authentic small estates in Montalcino, emblematic of the region’s new generation of sensitive, terroir-focused producers.

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