Assisi is a beautiful place, perched high above the rambling plains of Umbria on a throne like hill.  The story of St. Francis is one of the better ones in all of Catholicism and inspires many a pilgrim to seek out the gorgeous Basilica named in his honor.  

Tonight we are enjoying a bottle of Sportoletti Assisi Rosso 2006, that I came upon through Garagiste.  The picture abve shows a row of Umbrian vines in the shadow of Assisi, and I remember taking in the same view as I walked past these vineyards just over seven years ago in anticipation of reaching the town on the hill.

This vino is a 90+ pointer in a recent review from one of the glossy wine magazines, but I think its better than that.  The 2006 Assisi Rosso is a blend of mostly Sangiovese, a good part Merlot, and just a little Cabernet that retails between $14 and $20, and brings the typical dryness combined with black cherry you’d come to expect from an Italian Sangiovese.  The Merlot and Cab balance this wine out and make it ever more enjoyable.  This Italian rosso is versatile enough to be served with pizza or veal and can be enjoyed everyday or on a special occasion.