Alessandro Stefani 2024 Yarra Valley Sangiovese 'La Vignola'

"Pouring a ruby tinged mid-violet, the 2024 vintage of the 'La Vignola' Sangiovese from Alessandro Stefani is particularly serious in tone. Black pepper, dried rose petals, and souk-market spices wreathe around red fruits: cherry, raspberry, and plum. Mint, watermelon, and blood orange nuances add freshness and intrigue. Light to medium-bodied, brimming with fresh acidity, the palate is a delight with faint chalky phenolic and a fine, powdery tannin presence at close. The lingering effect is one of freshness; the mouth waters! Blood orange and pink grapefruit, fresh slightly tart raspberry and cherry, fine cured fat, and dash of black pepper. A slightly naughty salted watermelon note blends with fresh tarragon, mint, and fennel nuances on the close. One just wants to take another sip. Easily the finest iteration of 'La Vignola' yet." — David