2017 Cosimo Maria Masino ‘Matilde’ Toscana Rosato IGT

Region: San Miniato < Tuscany < Italy

Grapes: 80% Sangiovese, 20% Sanforte

Vineyard/Cellar Stats: Demeter certified biodynamic wine; clay and limestone soil with many calcareous fossils in the vineyard, 600 meters altitude, certified biodynamic and organic, fermentation in concrete; bottled unfined/unfiltered with no added sulfur; 12% ABV

Winemaker: Francesco De Filippis

NEW VINTAGE ALERT: 2017 is here! Another great wine from our friends at Cosimo Maria Masini, where grapes have been grown since the 1600’s.  The Masini family acquired the estate in 1997 (though Napoleon Bonaparte was a previous owner) and made several exciting discoveries when they began rehabilitating the property, including a very few, old, Sanforte vines. Sanforte, unique to Tuscany, was previously thought to be Sangiovese, and produces a wine that is slightly more full-bodied. The Masinis lovingly restored these vines and converted the entire property to biodynamic viticulture in 2005.  The Matilde rosato, certified biodynamic and organic, is 80% Sangiovese + 20% Sanforte that is fermented in concrete, unfined/unfiltered, and no added SO2 in this vintage, because it didn't need it. More than just a summer quaffer, it’s savory, watermelon notes, plush, fuzzy peach and typical Sangiovese sour cherry reveal themselves as the wine opens up in your glass. This one goes both ways – an excellent food wine, and so delicious on its own.