Tenuta Santi Giacomo e Filippo FortErcole 2017

Sangiovese is an interesting soloist, but can play incredibly well in ensembles. It’s bright, red-fruited, and plays in the treble clef. That’s why it can be exceptionally dynamic when paired with something bassy and deep. In the case of this FortErcole from the Marche region of Italy, it’s counterpart is Montepulciano. 

The Montepulciano grape is often made into a chunky, overripe wine for early consumption that gets sold for €4 a bottle at an Italian gas station. But when farmed and vinified with care, it can produce something of incredible texture and richness. Pair the deep, black-fruited quality of Montepulciano with the tart red brightness of Sangiovese and it’s a perfect match.

Santi Giacomo e Fillipo is an organic family farm in the Marche region that’s been practicing regenerative farming for more than two decades. This wine is named after the Bruscoli grandfather, Ercole.

This wine is showy and lush, with tart fruit notes soaring over the rich bassy fruit. Prosciutto, dried herbs, and sour cherry followed by fennel and toasted black pepper. You’ll want to eat good food while drinking this wine–red sauce pasta, pizza, roast meat.