Rosso di Montalcino is the baby bother wine of the world famous Brunello di Montalcino. Produced from Sangiovese around the town of Montalcino in Tuscany, and often blended with some Merlot, the wines tends to be soft, approachable and ready to drink a year or two from the vintage.
Montalcino is known throughout the [Italian](/country/italy) wine world and beyond for its exceptional [Brunello](/appellation/brunello-di-montalcino-docg) wines, produced from [Sangiovese](/sangiovese). These wines are created from the area's best fruit and have the potential to age and improve for many years. As such, rules and regulations for the [DOCG Brunello](/appellation/brunello-di-montalcino-docg) are strict and in order to maintain quality, the consorzio are very active in upholding these regulations. The Rosso di Montalcino appellation exists therefore as a second tier for producers wishing to produce wines that are ready to drink a little earlier. Ageing requirements are lower and additional grape varieties are permitted in the blend. In 2015 the consorzio decided to move with the time and permit the use of screwcap closures.