Sangiovese (80%) and Alicante (20%) are the blending components of the 2015 Belguardo Serrata. This IGT Toscana red sees ten months in oak but otherwise offers a very easy and accessible approach. Red cherry and blackberry flavors are backed by fresh acidity and a mid-weight style. This is a great value option for pasta and pizza.

The 2013 Belguardo Serrata is 80% Sangiovese with 20% Alicante thrown in to intensify its fruity perfumes. The grape is also used to darken this wine's color and thicken its concentration. This is a fragrant red wine with bold cherry, plum pudding and Christmas spice. The wine is aged in oak for ten months and this process serves to further fix its color and flavor profile.

A blend of mostly Sangiovese with some Alicante, the 2011 Maremma Toscana Belguardo Serrata opens to a lovely dark garnet color and extremely focused aromas of dark cherry, spice, moist earth and a touch of dark chocolate. That same precision and attention to detail is evident in the mouth where the wine is fresh, cheerful and very lively. It’s ready for immediate consumption. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2016. Tenuta Belguardo is the Maremma-based property of Chianti Classico icons, Filippo and Francesco Mazzei of Castello di Fonterutoli. The property is located between Grosseto and Montiano near the Parco dell’Uccellina national park, about ten kilometers from the Tyrrhenian Sea. Importer: Palm Bay International; www.palmbay.com

The 2010 Maremma Toscana Serrata is quite pretty. Bright red fruit, flowers, spices and licorice jump from the glass as this delicate, floral Sangiovese/Alicante blend shows off its considerable charm. If served slightly chilled, the Serrata would make a delicious warm weather red. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2014. Tenuta Belguardo is the Mazzei family’s winery in Maremma. These entry and mid-level priced wines are quite attractive. Unfortunately, the last few years haven’t been easy here. The estate decided against bottling their flagship Tenuta Belguardo in 2009. Importer: Palm Bay International, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 362-9642

The 2009 Serrata is 80% Sangiovese and 20% Alicante. Sweet red cherries, flowers and tobacco are some of the nuances that flow from this plush, inviting wine. The warmth and radiance of the fruit flows effortlessly to the harmonious finish. The Serrata is a gorgeous, entry-level red from Maremma. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2015. Importer: Palm Bay International, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 362-9642