The entry-level Montevertine 2018 Pian del Ciampolo is a blend of mostly Sangioveto (otherwise known as Sangiovese) with the complimentary grapes Canaiolo and Colorino. This is a delicate and almost subdued expression that reveals itself slowly, peeling back veils of tart raspberry, wild cherry, blue flower and candied orange peel along the way. After you've played the veil game for a while, there is a point of ripe plum or blackberry confit at the very core of the wine that reflects the vintage warmth. This is a lean-bodied wine with a smooth and polished finish. You might pair it with a Tuscan favorite such as ribbon pasta with wild boar, pappardelle al sugo di cinghiale. The gamey flavors of the dish will offset the wine's racy acidity.

The 2018 Pian del Ciampolo is a glorious wine. The purest essence of Radda emerges in a wine with striking translucence and captivating balance. The 2018 offers notable depth with less opulence and more freshness than the 2017. Crushed flowers, sweet red berries, mint and spice are all finely knit in a wine of extraordinary beauty. Readers who may be new to Montevertine and want to explore the wines should start here. Pian del Ciampolo is a real gem in 2018. It will drink well to age twenty, maybe beyond.