Cantaloro Rosso Toscana IGT

Avignonesi's Cantaloro emerges from the volcanic clay and limestone slopes surrounding Montepulciano, where the estate has farmed since 1971. The vineyard sits at 300–400 meters elevation on south-facing aspects that capture afternoon sun while retaining morning freshness from the Valdichiana valley.

The blend—primarily Sangiovese Grosso with Canaiolo—ferments in temperature-controlled stainless steel before aging 18 months in large Slavonian oak casks (not barriques), a choice that preserves varietal character over oak imprint. This format allows the wine to develop complexity without the vanilla-forward signatures of French oak or new wood.

Cantaloro occupies a deliberate middle ground: structured enough for cellaring, immediate enough for current enjoyment. The Slavonian aging softens Sangiovese's natural tannin architecture while the volcanic terroir imparts mineral precision and red-fruit focus absent in riper Tuscan expressions.

Drink 2024–2032.