Il Bastardo Sangiovese Tuscany IGT, Tuscany, Italy

Ruby-red fruit, violet, blackberry, and cherry open with bright, uncomplicated freshness. 2024 Il Bastardo Sangiovese Toscana IGT is made from 100% Sangiovese, with consulting winemaker Paolo Masi using a 10-day skin maceration in stainless steel to emphasize color, fruit, and the grape's naturally lively structure. Medium-bodied and accessible, it reflects the Masi family's long-standing focus on delivering clear Tuscan character with strong value and straightforward drinkability.

Product Details:

• Owner: Masi Family
• Winemaker: Paolo Masi, Consulting Winemaker
• Grapes: 100% Sangiovese
• Maceration: 10 days on the skins
• Fermentation: Stainless steel
• ABV: 13%

Sensory Description:

The wine shows a ruby-red color and an aromatic profile led by tart red cherry, blackberry, and violet. The palate is medium-bodied and fruit-forward, with fresh red fruit carried by lively acidity and approachable tannins. Cherry and darker berry notes remain at the center, while the relatively lean structure keeps the wine energetic rather than heavy. The finish is clean, lightly savory, and driven by Sangiovese's fresh fruit and gentle tannic grip.

Awards & Accolades:

• Score: Wine Enthusiast 88 Points, 2026

Winemaker's Background:

Renzo Masi is a family-run Tuscan wine company rooted in Rufina, where the Masi family has worked in wine for three generations. The family's approach combines its own estate production with long-term relationships with selected growers, allowing it to work closely with vineyard sources while maintaining a consistent house style. Paolo Masi, the son of Renzo Masi and a trained agronomist, serves as consulting winemaker for Il Bastardo Sangiovese, shaping the wine around stainless steel production and a relatively short maceration designed to preserve freshness and fruit. The Il Bastardo name is also used today on a separate Sangiovese and Syrah blend in Italy, while this Toscana IGT bottling remains the 100% Sangiovese expression found in the U.S. market.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at approximately 60 to 65°F in a medium-sized red wine glass to highlight the wine's cherry, violet, and blackberry character while keeping its acidity fresh. Pair with pizza, tomato-based pasta, grilled sausages, roast chicken, meatballs, charcuterie, or moderately aged pecorino. Its medium body and accessible tannins also make it a flexible choice for casual Italian dishes and weeknight meals.