Best Brunello Wines & Pairings

Best Brunello Wines & Pairings

Brunello di Montalcino is a prestigious red wine from the Montalcino region of Tuscany, Italy. Here’s a detailed overview of Brunello wines, including their production, types, and food pairings.

Types of Brunello Wines

1. Brunello di Montalcino:
– Grape: 100% Sangiovese (locally known as Sangiovese Grosso).
– Aging: Must be aged for at least four years (five for Riserva).
– Flavor Profile: Rich flavors of dark cherry, plum, leather, earth, and herbs, with high acidity and tannins.
– Pairing: Pairs well with red meats, game, hearty stews, and aged cheeses.

2. Brunello di Montalcino Riserva:
– Grape: 100% Sangiovese.
– Aging: Aged for a minimum of five years.
– Flavor Profile: Often more complex and deeper in flavor than regular Brunello, with greater aging potential.
– Pairing: Excellent with robust dishes like truffle risotto, braised meats, and fine charcuterie.

3. Rosso di Montalcino:
– Grape: 100% Sangiovese.
– Aging: Aged for a minimum of one year.
– Flavor Profile: Lighter and more approachable than Brunello, with bright fruit flavors and softer tannins.
– Pairing: Versatile; pairs well with pasta, grilled meats, and lighter cheese.

 Production

– Location: Montalcino is located south of Siena in Tuscany. The climate is ideal for grape growing, with hot summers and moderate winters.

– Vineyards: Grapes are grown on hillsides with various soil types, contributing to the wine’s complexity. Many producers practice sustainable or organic farming.

Winemaking Process:

– Harvesting: Grapes are hand-harvested, usually in late September to early October.
– Fermentation: Fermented in stainless steel or large oak vats, allowing for controlled temperatures.
– Aging: After fermentation, wines are aged in large oak barrels (botte) or smaller barrels (barrique) for varying lengths, depending on the style.

Food Pairings

1. Brunello di Montalcino:
– Grilled or roasted lamb
– Rich, meaty sauces (like Bolognese)
– Aged cheeses (like Parmigiano-Reggiano)

2. Brunello di Montalcino Riserva:
– Wild game (like venison)
– Truffle dishes
– Rich stews (like cinghiale, wild boar)

3. Rosso di Montalcino:
– Pasta with tomato sauce
– Pizza with various toppings
– Grilled vegetables

Notable Wineries

Here are some notable wineries in the Montalcino region, along with specific acclaimed vintages and wines:

1. Biondi-Santi
– Notable Wine: Brunello di Montalcino
– Acclaimed Vintages: 2010, 2015
– Notes: Often credited with creating the Brunello style, known for its longevity and elegance.

2. Castello Banfi
– Notable Wine: Brunello di Montalcino
– Acclaimed Vintages: 2013, 2015
– Notes: A modern winery with a focus on innovation and quality; produces wines with a rich and fruit-forward profile.

3. Casanova di Neri
– Notable Wine: Brunello di Montalcino “Tenuta Nuova”
– Acclaimed Vintages: 2006, 2010, 2015
– Notes: Known for intense flavors and a balance of power and finesse; often highly rated by critics.

4. Le Ragnaie
– Notable Wine: Brunello di Montalcino
– Acclaimed Vintages: 2012, 2015
– Notes: Emphasizes terroir, producing wines that reflect the unique characteristics of their vineyards.

5. Poggio di Sotto
– Notable Wine: Brunello di Montalcino
– Acclaimed Vintages: 2006, 2010, 2012
– Notes: Known for producing low-yield, high-quality wines with complexity and aging potential.

6. Siro Pacenti
– Notable Wine: Brunello di Montalcino “Pelagrilli”
– Acclaimed Vintages: 2010, 2015
– Notes: Focuses on sustainable practices, known for elegance and depth.

7. Il Poggione
– Notable Wine: Brunello di Montalcino
– Acclaimed Vintages: 2010, 2013
– Notes: A historic estate with a reputation for high-quality, traditional Brunello.

8. Fattoria dei Barbi
– Notable Wine: Brunello di Montalcino
– Acclaimed Vintages: 2010, 2012
– Notes: One of the oldest wineries in the region, known for consistent quality and traditional winemaking techniques.

Summary of Notable Vintages

– 2010: Widely regarded as an exceptional vintage, producing complex and age-worthy wines across many producers.
– 2012: A balanced year, yielding wines with good structure and fruit.
– 2013: Known for its elegance and finesse, producing wines that are approachable yet capable of aging.
– 2015: A warm vintage that produced ripe, fruit-forward wines with robust character.

These wineries and vintages represent the best of Brunello di Montalcino, each offering unique expressions of Sangiovese.

Conclusion

Brunello wines are a hallmark of Italian winemaking, showcasing the versatility and depth of Sangiovese. Whether you opt for the more robust Brunello or the approachable Rosso, each offers unique flavors and experiences, making them ideal for various culinary pairings.

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