2017 Altesino Brunello di Montalcino

Classic in Style
Woman Winemaker

Brunello is perhaps the most recognized Italian appellation and Altesino is consistently among the top producers. Their wines never disappoint.

Sustainable farming practices and hand-harvested.

Red
  • Tasting Notes wild berries, sweet violet, tobacco, chocolate, vanilla
  • Variety Sangiovese
  • Region Italy, Tuscany
  • Volume 750ml
  • Alcohol Volume 14.5%

$65.00

Out of stock

Near the end of 2002, Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini, owner of nearby Tenuta Caparzo, purchased the Altesino winery. Amid the eastern hills of Montalcino near Siena in central Tuscany, stands the magnificently elegant 14th century-built Palazzo Altesi, home to the Altesino winery and a marvelous resort. The ancient coat of arms, carved in white Carrara marble, is still visible above the antique oak portal. The stunning Palazzo Altesi beautifully reflects Altesino’s charm and refinement.

Winemaking Philosophy
Though the worldwide reputation of Brunello has encouraged some conservatism among Montalcino estates, Altesino has always been a leader, unafraid of innovation. The estate pioneered the technique of aging its IGT wines in small French oak barrels, limiting the time spent in oak to enhance each wine’s personality. The resulting wines were a groundbreaking improvement over those produced by traditional methods. No longer overwhelmed by wood, they were able to display the unique characteristics of the fruit, with softened tannins and perfect balance.

Not content to rest on its laurels, Altesino became the first Montalcino estate to introduce the concept of cru wines, made with a special selection of grapes from a single vineyard. Its Montosoli Brunello, named after the prestigious vineyard, was the first of these wines and is still considered among the regions finest. Altesino also pioneered the concept of Brunello futures (wine purchased before its release) with its 1985 vintage. This commitment to innovation led to many modern wines in the estates portfolio, including Alte d’Altesi, Palazzo Altesi and Rosso di Altesino. Elegance, finesse, and a fruitier, richer style are the trademarks of Altesino’s wines and have earned the estate a position among the very top producers of Brunello. This achievement is even more impressive considering Brunello is perhaps the most recognized Italian appellation.

SANGIOVESE
Sangiovese is Italy’s most planted grape varietal and can taste quite different throughout, depending on the region it is grown in. It is the key grape variety of Tuscany’s distinguished Chianti and Montalcino regions. Sangiovese is generally higher in acidity with hints of local earth and herbs including roasted tomato, balsamic and oregano making this wine a great match for you guessed it: tomato sauce. It is sure to stand up beautifully with your home-cooked Italian meal. AKA “Prugnolo Gentile” in the Montepulciano region within Italy.

TUSCANY, ITALY
Tuscany, within Central Italy, lies on the western side of the country. Tuscany is famous for its rolling hills, the popular region of Chianti and the black grape variety, Sangiovese. Sangiovese wines here usually produce high levels of acidity and tannin with aromas of red cherry, plum, and died herbs. Sangiovese does so well throughout Tuscany as it needs a warm climate to ripen fully. Designated regions to keep an eye out for are Chianti DOCG, Chianti Classico DOCG, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG. Additionally, Bolgheri DOC, for bold reds from the coast of Central Italy.