Gianni Brunelli Brunello di Montalcino 2020

Gianni Brunelli 2020, the Brunello between two hillsides

In this Brunello di Montalcino 2020, the Sangiovese draws on two vineyards with different exposures and altitudes. I also appreciate the contrast that animates its tasting: ripe cherry and wild red berries meet spice, then a touch of menthol extends the finish.

Two vineyards to tell the story of Montalcino

Gianni Brunelli Brunello di Montalcino is produced in Montalcino, in Tuscany, under the DOCG Brunello di Montalcino appellation. It comes from Podernovone, at 500 meters above sea level and facing southwest, and from Canalicchio, located at 250 meters and oriented northwest. The vines were planted in 1998 and 1989 respectively. The soils mix galestro, calcareous marly schist and white clay: this diversity supports the sought-after balance between complexity, tension and elegance.

The grape is Sangiovese. After a 23-day maceration and fermentation, the wine matures for 30 months in large oak casks of 25 to 30 hectoliters; the aging is also described as taking place in 30 Slavonian oak barriques. The label adds an intimate story to this origin: "Elvira con sombrero", a work by Richard M. Goodwin, a Harvard economist and painter and friend of the family. It pays tribute to Elvira, Gianni's mother, as well as to Laura, his partner. Elvira was a familiar presence at the family osteria and in the life of the project. This detail does not reveal the taste of the wine, but gives a face to its story.

The color is an intense, bright ruby red. On the nose, ripe cherry is accompanied by a subtle hint of orange zest. On the palate, the texture is silky and enveloping, carried by flavors of wild red berries and a spicy nuance. The elegant tannins lead to a complex and intense finish, where wild strawberry lingers with an unexpected minty note. Its profile sits at 7 on a scale of 9 running from fruity to spicy: a reference point that matches the tasting impressions without masking the freshness of the fruit.

At the table, with flavors of character

I would serve it with red meat, game or a fine charcuterie, pairings that suit this Brunello and are generous enough to support its structure. You can also make it the companion of a meal where you take the time to follow its evolution, from the cherry nose to the strawberry and menthol finish. If you are looking for a Sangiovese from Montalcino that is fruity, spicy and marked by its two places of origin, this 2020 deserves a place at your table.