2019 Cab Sav, Cab Franc & Petit Verdot, Tenuta Monteti - Tuscany

The 2019 Monteti from Tenuta Monteti is a bold and elegant expression of Tuscany’s Maremma coast — a perfect blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The estate, founded in 1998 by Paolo and Gemma Baratta and now run by their daughter Eva with Javier Pedrazzini, tends ~28‑30 hectares of vines. The vineyards sit about 140‑145 metres above sea level with a south/south‑west exposure, planted on stony soils over clay, offering great drainage but enough moisture retention to keep freshness. 

In this vintage the blend is roughly 55% Petit Verdot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, with yields in 2019 of about 35 hl/ha.  After a fairly mild and rainy winter, a cooler and wet spring delayed vegetative growth; summer warmed up nicely, giving good ripeness overall.  On the nose you’ll find deep garnet red tones with violet reflections, aromas of black cherry and dark fruit, undergrowth, graphite, palo santo, coffee and violet.  The palate is full‑bodied, with taut yet well‑woven tannins, real structure, and a long persistent finish. 

As for food pairings, this wine loves hearty fare. Think slow‑roasted beef ribs, strong game like venison, or richly sauced lamb. It’ll also shine alongside aged cheeses (Pecorino, Parmigiano‑Reggiano) or dishes with earthy mushrooms, perhaps a porcini risotto or truffle‑infused polenta. Serve around 16‑18 °C, and if possible decant to let those tannins soften and all that complexity bloom.