Cerbaiona for Today
To wine nerds and collectors, Cerbaiona needs no introduction. This tiny estate in Montalcino has long been whispered about in reverent tones, producing some of the most coveted and classical Brunello of the modern era. When Cerbaiona releases anything, people pay attention. Which brings us to this rather delicious surprise:
NV Cerbaiona Rosso di Toscana
This is not Brunello.
This is not from their estate vines.
Yes, it is indeed non-vintage dated.
And it may very well be the most drinkable, joyful thing Cerbaiona has ever made.
This blend is anchored by 85% Sangiovese from the 2022 vintage, layered with 15% Cabernet Franc from 2023 and a final seasoning of 5% Merlot from 2023. While the fruit is sourced rather than estate grown, the hands, the decisions, and the standards behind the wine are unmistakably Cerbaiona. The same obsessive attention, the same refusal to compromise, the same pursuit of balance and purity.
In the glass, it drinks like Tuscany on its best behavior.
The Sangiovese brings sour cherry, wild strawberry, dried rose and that unmistakable Tuscan earthiness. Cabernet Franc adds lift — fresh herbs, graphite, a gentle green note that keeps everything taut and energetic. The touch of Merlot rounds the edges with subtle plushness, making the wine dangerously easy to enjoy. It is medium-bodied, beautifully proportioned, and ready right now. The kind of wine that disappears far too quickly on a dinner table and makes you wish you’d ordered two bottles instead of one.
This is Cerbaiona unburdened by Brunello’s rules and timelines. This is a wine made to be poured, shared, and enjoyed without ceremony, while still carrying the unmistakable signature of one of Montalcino’s great estates.
93 Points, Wine Advocate
The Cerbaiona NV Rosso V.D.T. is a real beauty. This mysterious blend opens to a sultry, dark appearance with some deep ruby shine that shows from within. The bouquet has elements that remind me of a classic Tuscan Sangiovese (made in a hands-off and transparent manner) on the one hand, and fragrant, blue flower elements on the other. It also has some carbonic-adjacent aromas and a whole lot of freshness, with mint and medicinal herb. Dusty earthenware or baked terracotta also appear. The wine is certainly beautiful, and I'm excited to recommend it. (ML)