Wine from Brunello di Montalcino - Tuscany

Located in the heartland of Tuscany, the prestigious Brunello di Montalcino region is celebrated for crafting some of the world's most renowned and long lived red wines. Perched atop a hill encircled by the undulating hills of Tuscany, the town of Montalcino forms the epicentre of this illustrious winemaking territory, distinguished by its deep historical roots, breathtaking scenery, and viticultural expertise.

The term "Brunello" refers specifically to the local variant of the Sangiovese Grosso clone, the sole grape used in crafting Brunello di Montalcino. Brunello stands alongside Chianti as one of Tuscany's premier DOCG wines, offering the richest interpretation of the Sangiovese grape. Brunello is to Italy what Vosne-Romanee is to Burgundy producing ethereal, long aging, silky and sexy wines.

Characteristics of Brunello Wines

Brunello di Montalcino is celebrated for its robust structure, complexity, and earthy flavors that combine notes of black cherry, blackberry, chocolate, leather, and violets. These wines are known for their ability to age gracefully, developing deeper nuances over time.

Aging of Brunello di Montalcino:

Brunello di Montalcino is subject to a mandatory aging period before it goes on sale, requiring at least five years from the harvest time, or six for the Brunello di Montalcino Riserva variant. This aging process includes a minimum of two years in oak barrels, and a subsequent period of at least four months of bottle aging (extending to six months for the Riserva versions). The production yield for these wines is capped at 55 hectoliters per hectare.

On the other hand, Rosso di Montalcino, which is essentially Brunello di Montalcino that has been downgraded, is made available for purchase a year and a half after the grapes have been harvested. Some producers Rosso di Montalcino’s like Poggio di Sotto’s are arguably of higher quality than the average Brunello produced in the region.

Geographical Features and Climate of Brunello di Montalcino

Brunello di Montalcino is enshrined in a warm, dry climate with a significant variation in temperature between day and night, which helps the Sangiovese grape—the sole varietal used in Brunello production—reach its full potential. The terrain is a mix of rocky, nutrient-poor soils, from schist and volcanic to marl and limestone, which stress the vines and in turn encourage them to produce more concentrated and flavorful fruit.

Gianfranco Soldera - a legend who shaped the region

One cannot talk about the Brunello di Montalcino region without mentioning Gianfranco Soldera who’s influence on the region and legend still lives on. Gianfranco Soldera transformed the Brunello di Montalcino region through his estate, Case Basse, elevating its global prestige. Arriving in the 1970s, his visionary approach focused on respect for nature and an uncompromising dedication to quality. Soldera's commitment to organic farming and minimal intervention in winemaking set a new standard, influencing subsequent generations. His wines, celebrated for their purity and complexity, redefined expectations of Sangiovese, sparking a renaissance in the region. Soldera's legacy is a testament to the impact one passionate individual can have, solidifying Brunello di Montalcino's reputation as a producer of world-class wines.

Recommended Brunello di Montalcino producers:

Biondi-Santi:

Often credited with the birth of Brunello di Montalcino, Biondi-Santi's wines are known for their refined elegance and aging potential. Their Brunello and Brunello Riserva’s are some of the regions best.

Il Poggione:

This historic estate is renowned for creating rich, robust Brunellos that stand the test of time. Il Poggione is a staple in any wine collection as it also comes in at a very fair price.

Le Ragnaie:

Situated in one of the highest-altitude vineyards in Montalcino, Le Ragnaie's winemaking philosophy is a blend of traditional and modern techniques that yield elegant, complex Brunellos, prized for their balance and expression of terroir. Their single vineyard Cru's are highly sought after.

Poggio di Sotto

Known for their meticulous vineyard management and minimalist approach in the cellar, Poggio di Sotto produces Brunellos with a remarkable purity of fruit, silky tannins, and an extraordinary aging capacity, making them among the most sought-after wines in Montalcino.

Il Marroneto

Founded in 1974, Il Marroneto is a jewel among Montalcino wineries, crafting some of the most luminous and refined Brunellos. Their dedication to detail and passionate adherence to traditional winemaking methods result in wines of exceptional elegance and complexity. Their Madonna delle Grazie is amongst the best wines produced in the region.