Brunello di Montalcino is a red wine made in vineyards surrounding the town of Montalcino in Tuscany, Italy. It is one of the most famous and highly regarded red wines in Italy and was the first to be awarded the first DOCG designation (modelled on the French AOC) back in 1980. Brunello di Montalcino first appeared in the 19th century when Clement Santi made a wine from a selection of Sangiovese Grosso grapes. It wasn't until the 20th century, however, that it became known outside the region. Due to its rich, intense flavour and very long life, it has remained particularly popular. It makes the perfect accompaniment to meat and cheeses and is suited to a range of cuisines internationally.
If you want to see where this wonderful wine comes from, go on tastings and take tours, why not find a luxury villa in Montalcino?
The Biondi-Santi family remained the only producer of Brunello until after World War II but today there are 220 growers and over 150 bottlers. The Consorzio of Brunello producers, incorporating almost all of the Montalcino estates, was established in 1967.
They help establish and administer production codes and market Brunello internationally. By merit of the fact that almost all producers are involved, the brand of Brunello has been coherently and very developed.
The Biondi-Santi family remained the only producer of Brunello until after World War II but today there are 220 growers and over 150 bottlers. The Consorzio of Brunello producers, incorporating almost all of the Montalcino estates, was established in 1967.
They help establish and administer production codes and market Brunello internationally. By merit of the fact that almost all producers are involved, the brand of Brunello has been coherently and very developed.
Montalcino itself is a small, rather typical, hilltop town to the south of Siena. The micoroclimate of the area is perfect for Sangiovese grapes, and combined with the maturation time of five years before the wine is sold, makes something rather special and unique and is why Brunello is so admired. Tours of the estates are popular and easily arranged for any wine lovers. Typically, they begin by passing through the fields before visiting the cellars and producers and ending in a tasting session where experts can answer any questions you might have. Often, the tours are combined with dining experiences to bring out the flavours and learn even more about the region and its culinary delights and heritage.
Though parts of the Italian economy have suffered in recent years, her vineyards remain successful, producing more than France and selling exceptionally well. Production has only been increasing for Brunello, in particular, which is become more and more well-known internationally. With a younger generation behind the reins that is passionate about their product, their star only continues to rise. Be one step ahead of the crowd and visit Montalcino, go on a tasting and learn all about Brunello now – you can impress your friends with your knowledge later!
Though parts of the Italian economy have suffered in recent years, her vineyards remain successful, producing more than France and selling exceptionally well. Production has only been increasing for Brunello, in particular, which is become more and more well-known internationally. With a younger generation behind the reins that is passionate about their product, their star only continues to rise. Be one step ahead of the crowd and visit Montalcino, go on a tasting and learn all about Brunello now – you can impress your friends with your knowledge later!
Photo credits
picture 1: O.S. / CC BY-SA 3.0;
picture 2: O.S. / CC BY-SA 3.0;
picture 3: Giovanni / CC BY 2.0
picture 1: O.S. / CC BY-SA 3.0;
picture 2: O.S. / CC BY-SA 3.0;
picture 3: Giovanni / CC BY 2.0
