2019 Ciacci Piccolomini Brunello di Montalcino ‘Pianrosso’
This single-vineyard bottling is what Ciacci’s outstanding reputation was built upon. It is their most allocated and praised wine and the 2019 received an extremely rare 100 points from KERIN O’KEEFE. Enough said. Get it while you can.
Organic farming practices and hand-harvested.
$110.00
Out of stock
Ciacci Piccolomini is one of the most sought-after producers in all of Italy. This ancient estate has 35 hectares of superior holdings in the prized Castelnuovo dell’Abate zone, including the ‘Pianrosso’ vineyard (meaning ‘red field,’ a reference to the iron rich soils) and the ‘Fonte’ vineyard, which produces grapes for the Rosso di Montalcino.
Plantings of Syrah, Cabernet, and Merlot are to the south, where the Orcia river provides a milder microclimate. The non-traditional wines are as exciting as the Brunello and Rosso: ‘Ateo,’ which means ‘atheist,’ is a statement against the restrictive laws that govern winemaking in Italy; the wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. 100% Syrah ‘Fabius’ is one of the greatest expressions of that variety in Italy and Parker once called it “the finest Italian Syrah I have tasted.”
Brunello di Montalcino is one of Italy’s most prestigious and renowned red wines, hailing from the picturesque hilltop town of Montalcino in Tuscany. Here are some key points about Brunello di Montalcino:
Grape Variety: Brunello di Montalcino is made exclusively from the Sangiovese grape variety, known locally as Sangiovese Grosso. This particular clone of Sangiovese is prized for its thick skins, which contribute to the wine’s rich color, intense flavors, and tannic structure.
Terroir: The Montalcino region benefits from a unique combination of climate, soil, and topography that is particularly well-suited to growing Sangiovese grapes. The region’s warm and dry summers, cool nights, and significant diurnal temperature variation help to ripen the grapes fully while preserving acidity and freshness. The soils in Montalcino are diverse, ranging from clay and limestone to sandstone and volcanic rock, which adds complexity and character to the wines.
Aging Requirements: By law, Brunello di Montalcino must be aged for a minimum of four years, with at least two years in oak barrels and four months in the bottle before release. Riserva wines, which are produced in exceptional vintages, must be aged for a minimum of five years, with at least two years in oak and six months in the bottle. This extended aging period allows the wines to develop complex aromas, flavors, and textures, as well as soften the tannins and integrate oak nuances.
Flavor Profile: Brunello di Montalcino is known for its bold and complex flavor profile, which typically includes notes of dark cherry, plum, raspberry, leather, tobacco, and earthy undertones. The wines are full-bodied, with firm tannins and a long, lingering finish. With age, Brunello di Montalcino wines can develop additional nuances of dried fruit, spice, and forest floor, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
Food Pairing: Brunello di Montalcino pairs beautifully with a wide range of foods, including grilled and roasted meats, game, aged cheeses, and hearty Tuscan dishes such as wild boar stew and pappardelle with porcini mushrooms. Its robust flavor profile and firm structure allow it to stand up to rich and savory dishes, while its acidity and elegance make it a versatile companion at the table.
Prestige and Recognition: Brunello di Montalcino is considered one of Italy’s most prestigious wine appellations, and its wines consistently receive high praise from critics and enthusiasts worldwide. The region’s commitment to quality, tradition, and terroir-driven winemaking has cemented its reputation as a benchmark for excellence in the wine world.
Overall, Brunello di Montalcino represents the epitome of Italian winemaking craftsmanship, with its age-worthy wines offering a glimpse into the unique terroir and heritage of the Montalcino region. Whether enjoyed in its youth or after years of aging, Brunello di Montalcino wines are sure to leave a lasting impression on any wine lover’s palate.
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