January 31, 2025
Giodo Brunello di Montalcino 2020 - Case Special
"Upon meeting Carlo Ferrini for the first time some 15 years ago, I remember vividly when he described himself as a Sangiovesista, or an adherent of the school of Sangiovese. Many years later, and perhaps to cement that self-appointed moniker, the wine consultant has now settled in Montalcino, or the ultimate holy ground to Sangiovese." - Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
Carlo Ferrini, the distinguished Italian winemaking consultant with an illustrious history of collaborations including Casanova di Neri, Castello Romitorio, Poggio Antico, and Talenti, embarked on his personal viticultural journey in Montalcino nearly two decades ago. In 2002, Ferrini found a 2.5-hectare plot that beckoned with the promise of outstanding Sangiovese cultivation. Ferrini's own oenological narrative began to flourish with his first vintage in 2009, a year that yielded a modest 3,000 bottles but marked the inception of a remarkable legacy.
Today, the Giodo estate encompasses 6.0 hectares, divided between elite Brunello vines and a broader IGT Toscana Rosso designated primarily for Sangiovese grapes. Poised between 300 and 400 meters above sea level, the estate's vines are neighbours to the storied Lisini vineyards and are cradled within the fertile Sesta region. The clonal selection within these vineyards is a heartfelt homage to heritage, with Ferrini choosing only the finest Sangiovese clones he has encountered, drawing from the wisdom he garnered over his career. The vineyards boast a range of ages, from three to sixteen years, with the elder vines exclusively contributing to Giodo's Brunello, whilst the younger stocks form the basis of its refined IGT Tuscany red.
The Giodo name is derived from Carlo’s parents, Giovanna and Donatello, encapsulating the family heritage at the heart of his venture.
The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino vintage stands out for its balance and charm, offering fresh, fruit-forward wines with silky textures and bright acidity. Unlike previous warm vintages, 2020 benefited from well-timed rain and evolving vineyard practices, shaping a more refined expression of Sangiovese. Read our 2020 vintage report here.
One of the top scoring wines of the vintage from both the Wine Advocate and James Suckling was Giodo and this week only we have a case special price representing a nice saving from the RRP.
Sangiovese lovers, grab them whilst you can.
Giodo Brunello di Montalcino 2020
97 Points | James Suckling
A more elegant than powerful Brunello here. Intensity and depth to this wine, with a fresh profile of strawberries, red cherries and peonies. A cinnamon note adds a touch of grace. The attack is graceful as well, with velvety tannins, medium to full body, persistent and refreshing acidity and a long, very flavorful finish. Elegant sample. Drinkable now, but it will last for decades with ease.
96 points | Wine Advocate, Monica Larner
From vintner Carlo Ferrini, the Giodo 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is a balanced, medium-plus intensity wine that delivers excellent focus and sharpness. You get the generosity and softness of the vintage with Mediterranean tones of lavender and rosemary that frame a pretty core of cherry and blackcurrant. You also get a savory note of something that reminds me of fragrant tea leaf. The tannins are expertly managed, and the wine's texture builds steadily in the mouth. It shows superb phenolic ripeness with no sharp edges. The finish is fleshed out, contemporary and generous. Production is 16,000 bottles.