Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2020 375ml

Col d'Orcia sticks with classic ageing, and the 2020 shows grandeur, depth and complexity while already feeling inviting. On the nose, black cherry, barberry, raspberry, plum and blood orange, along with mint, cedar, cherry stone, dried violet flowers, a touch of cinnamon and vanilla, and behind that crushed stone, underbrush and foliage.

The grapes grow in Col d'Orcia's south-facing vineyards in Montalcino, on a hill overlooking the Orcia river, around 300 metres above sea level. The estate in the Val d'Orcia farms 142 hectares of vines, 108 of them dedicated to Brunello, organic since 2010: sheep and goats graze between the rows, and compost from its own cycle nourishes the soils.

Pure Sangiovese, hand-picked and strictly selected, first in the vineyard and then on the sorting table in the cellar. About 15 days of fermentation on the skins below 28 °C, in wide, shallow 150-hectolitre steel tanks built specifically for gentle extraction of tannin and colour. After malolactic fermentation, four years of ageing: 32 months in 25, 50 and 75-hectolitre botti of Slavonian and Allier oak, followed by at least twelve months of bottle ageing at controlled temperature. 14.5% vol., dry.

Dense, juicy and ripe, supple yet with character: sweet red and dark berry fruit, cherry, baking spices, a touch of quatre épices, crushed stone and foliage. The finish is long and coating, with hints of liquorice and candied orange peel.

Bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù with pappardelle, rack of lamb or aged Pecorino Toscano, as well as mushroom dishes and hearty stews.

In September 2020, the temperature swings between day and night favoured the synthesis of polyphenols; phenolic ripeness was well balanced and the aromatics pronounced. The estate received the Slow Wine Guide's SNAIL Award for sustainable viticulture in 2023. The 375ml bottle is also available in a smaller format.