Monte Antico — a modern Tuscan red that overdelivers

Monte Antico sits in the world of Super Tuscan–style wines — modern Tuscan reds that move beyond the old rules, where only traditional local grapes were allowed. Instead, they often blend Sangiovese with grapes like Cabernet and Merlot, focusing on quality, balance, and drinkability. The result is generous, comforting reds that are very easy to love.

I first came across Monte Antico while chatting with Master of Wine Beans Boughton — a real expert when it comes to navigating the (often confusing) world of Italian wine — and it immediately stood out as a brilliant example of the style.

The bottle I've picked is Monte Antico, Toscana IGT 2021. Ripe cherry and plum, a gentle smoky note, and a hint of liquorice and spice. Smooth, comforting and easy to enjoy, with a lovely sense of warmth and depth without feeling heavy.

The kind of bottle that works just as well alongside a simple dinner as it does opened and shared with friends — one of those dependable Italian reds you'll happily come back to.