Brunello di Montalcino

Brunello di Montalcino wines are among the most esteemed red wines in the world, hailing from the picturesque hills of Montalcino in Tuscany, Italy.  They are also the wines that Italians use to celebrate a joyous occasion (like a child graduating from college). 
 
Montalcino sits in the shadow of its medieval fortress, built in the 1300s, and just over 200 wineries share the slopes of the hill. The wines are exclusively made from Sangiovese grapes, locally known as Brunello or Sangiovese Grosso. The rigorous aging process, which requires a minimum of five years, including at least two years in oak barrels, produces wines with remarkable complexity and aging potential. The result is a robust wine with bold fruit flavors, high tannin, and high acidity, which evolve over time to reveal a more nuanced bouquet of earthy and sweet notes. 
 
Most Brunello producers also make Rosso di Montalcino wines, often referred to as the younger sibling of Brunello. They are made from the same Sangiovese grapes but require only one year of aging. This shorter maturation period results in a more approachable and fruit-forward wine, retaining the signature freshness and layered spices of the region’s terroir. Rosso di Montalcino serves as an excellent introduction to the flavors and style of Montalcino wines, offering a glimpse into the character that fully matures in Brunello di Montalcino. The Rosso versions are also more affordable than their big bother Brunello, which can get pricey, especially older vintages.