Podere Brizio Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2017

Podere Brizio Riserva 2017, patience in Montalcino

In this Brunello Riserva, the Sangiovese undergoes extended aging: forty-eight months in French oak barrels, according to the available information. I recommend it to those who love wines with character and want to take the time to appreciate them, rather than looking for a light or immediate wine.

An organic Sangiovese south of Montalcino

Podere Brizio is located in Montalcino, in southern Tuscany, and owns its own vineyards south of the town, between 300 and 350 meters above sea level. The estate is presented as deeply attached to the tradition of the appellation. Its history is linked to Roberto Bellini, who reportedly kept some fine plots after selling his shares in Pieve di Santa Restituta. The winery then had modern equipment, while its roots remained those of Brunello.

The wine is made from Sangiovese, the grape variety associated with Montalcino and the identity of Brunello. The product sheet presents it as organically farmed and bears the DOCG Brunello di Montalcino Riserva designation. Altitude and the southern position of the vines matter here: the available description links these plots to a naturally tannic and robust Sangiovese. The long barrel aging supports this structure, giving the tannins time to soften. The indications on bottle aging do not match across the passages provided; I therefore prefer not to state a precise duration for this stage.

For tasting, the information provided does not describe the color or the aromas: I will not attribute fruit, spice or forest-floor notes that are not documented. What one can expect from the description is a structured palate, marked by present tannins and a robust body, with the effect of extended aging meant to make them more supple. Serve it in a large glass and give it some time to open up; this advice is a tasting precaution, not an official note from the estate.

At the table, for food with character

I would choose a table able to match its structure: a braised dish, a braised meat or an aged cheese can offer pairings consistent with its tannins and robust profile. You can also save it for a meal where time is taken, opening the bottle in advance and watching it evolve in the glass. This 2017 Brunello Riserva appeals mainly to lovers of Sangiovese and of reds shaped by long aging. If this idea appeals to you, Podere Brizio deserves a place on your table.