1974 Rubesco Riserva Monticchio

70% Sangiovese 30% Canaiolo. This was an exceptional vintage thanks to the particularly sunny conditions during the summer. The harvest was carried out in optimal conditions with a dry north-easterly wind, favouring the fermentation with skins, which was slow, and produced little lees. Malolactic fermentation occurred spontaneously and very early, as is the norm in our area, due to the favourable climate. Refined in Slavonian oak casks which had been renewed, for about one and a half years, it was bottled towards the end of 1976 where it then remained for bottle aging until the release in 1982. This vintage of Rubesco Riserva was selected by the late Italian President of the Republic, Sandro Pertini, to represent fine Italian wines during the official luncheon for the late Emperor Hirohito held at the Italian Embassy of Tokyo in March 1982. The 1974 vintage is the first where, in accordance with vinicultural legislation, the topographic name Vigna Monticchio appears on the label. Plenty of red showing still – pretty similar colour to the 1971. Much more pruney and raisined fruit on the nose, less delicate and fragrant but there's still that camomile perfume. Sweet dark cherries and a touch of leather. Fresh and lively on the palate. A little more grip than the 1971 but still silky smooth Not as elegant/delicate as the 71, a little more toned and muscular. Later: a minor dairy/cheesy note and a touch of coffee. The firmer texture makes is very moreish and surprisingly juicy. (JH)