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Brunello di Montalcino

4 hours ago2 min read

Brunello di Montalcino

By Master Chef Gianluca Deiana Abis

1. History

Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy’s most prestigious wines, hails from the sunlit slopes surrounding the medieval town of Montalcino in southern Tuscany. Its name derives from the local nickname for Sangiovese, “Brunello,” which translates to “little dark one.” The wine’s history dates back centuries, but its modern fame began in the late 19th century when Clemente Santi and his grandson Ferruccio Biondi-Santi recognized the unique qualities of Montalcino’s terroir and its potential for producing exceptional, age-worthy wines. In 1980, Brunello di Montalcino was the first Italian wine to earn DOCG status. Crafted from 100% Sangiovese Grosso, Brunello is known for its long aging requirements—at least five years before release—resulting in a wine of remarkable complexity, elegance, and longevity. With its layers of cherry, spice, leather, and earth, Brunello di Montalcino has become synonymous with the pinnacle of Tuscan winemaking.

2. Pairing

Brunello di Montalcino’s full body, firm tannins, and nuanced flavors make it an outstanding partner for robust, richly flavored dishes.

Bistecca alla Fiorentina: The wine’s cherry and herbal notes complement the charred crust and juicy, marbled texture of a Tuscan T-bone steak.
Slow-Braised Short Ribs: Brunello’s earthy and spicy profile enhances the deep, savory richness of tender, slow-cooked beef.
Wild Boar Ragù with Pappardelle: Its vibrant acidity and ripe fruit elevate the gamey, hearty character of the ragù, creating a harmonious balance.
Aged Pecorino Toscano or Parmigiano Reggiano: The wine’s complex layers and long finish pair beautifully with the nutty, salty intensity of these aged cheeses.
Truffle-Based Dishes: Brunello’s earthy undertones and elegant structure make it a natural companion to dishes infused with black or white truffles.

3. The Top Wineries

Biondi-Santi: Widely regarded as the founding estate of Brunello, Biondi-Santi sets the standard for age-worthy, traditional Brunello di Montalcino.
Casanova di Neri: Known for crafting refined, polished Brunello that combines modern winemaking techniques with a deep respect for terroir.
Il Poggione: One of the most historic producers, Il Poggione is recognized for its classic style and long-lived wines that consistently rank among the best.
Siro Pacenti: A family-run estate producing Brunello with a balance of power and finesse, reflecting both tradition and innovation.

4. The Notes of Master Chef Gianluca Deiana Abis

Brunello di Montalcino is a wine that exemplifies the heart and soul of Tuscany. Its elegance, complexity, and ability to age gracefully make it a joy to pair with refined dishes and to savor on special occasions. For me, Brunello represents a perfect balance between tradition and innovation, showing how careful craftsmanship and respect for the land can create a truly world-class wine. Whether paired with a rich ragù or enjoyed on its own, Brunello di Montalcino never fails to deliver a memorable experience, making every moment feel extraordinary.