($55, Artisans Wines, Inc.): Since Montenidoli is one of the star producers of Vernaccia di San Gimignano, their red wines, such as this IGT Toscana, are often overlooked.  That’s a mistake, since this one, labeled redundantly Sono Montenidoli for emphasis, is a sleeper of a Super Tuscan.  The winemaking team, led by Elisabetta Fagiuoli, has a pure and precise style that shines in this wine made exclusively with Sangiovese.  Not overdone, the firm, black cherry-like fruit of Sangiovese radiates elegance. An alluring but subtle bitterness in the finish balances its tightly-wound power.  Though it certainly needs another several years of age before it blossoms fully, it’s a treat now with a simply grilled steak.
94 Michael Apstein Feb 24, 2015