Altesino Brunello di Montalcino 2018

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1970, Altesino is a historic estate located in the northeastern hills of Montalcino, Tuscany. The winery gained prominence in 1975 by introducing the concept of “cru” wines to Brunello di Montalcino with their Montosoli vineyard. Altesino is renowned for producing elegant and age-worthy wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. The estate combines traditional winemaking practices with modern techniques to craft wines of exceptional quality.

Producer and Winemaker

Altesino is owned by Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini, who also oversees other notable Tuscan estates. The winemaking team, including Simone Giunti and Alessandro Ciacci, focuses on expressing the purity of Sangiovese through meticulous vineyard management and careful vinification. Their approach emphasizes balance, elegance, and the distinctive characteristics of each vintage.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The estate’s vineyards span approximately 44 hectares across various sites, including Altesino, Macina, Pianezzine, and Castelnuovo dell’Abate. These vineyards are situated at elevations ranging from 200 to 400 meters above sea level and feature calcareous sandy-loam soils. The region’s Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm days and cool nights, allows for optimal ripening of Sangiovese grapes, contributing to the wines’ complexity and structure.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo fermentation in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures. The wine is then aged for a minimum of two years in large Slavonian oak barrels, followed by at least four months of bottle aging before release. This traditional aging process enhances the wine’s depth, complexity, and aging potential.

Tasting Notes

The 2018 Altesino Brunello di Montalcino displays a ruby-red color with a garnet rim. The bouquet offers aromas of violet, wild berries, tobacco, chocolate, and vanilla. On the palate, the wine is rich, full-bodied, and velvety, with flavors of plum, cherry, iron, and eucalyptus. The wine’s structure is supported by firm yet integrated tannins, leading to a lingering, fresh finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Brunello pairs excellently with rich meat dishes such as osso buco, pot roasts, and barbecued meats. Its robust structure and complex flavors also complement aged cheeses and hearty stews. For an optimal experience, serve alongside traditional Tuscan cuisine like pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar pasta).

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve the 2018 Altesino Brunello di Montalcino at a temperature of 18°C to 20°C (64°F to 68°F) to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and balance. Decanting the wine for about 30 minutes before serving can help open up its bouquet and enhance its flavors. Using large, tulip-shaped red wine glasses will concentrate the aromas and allow the wine to express its full character.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. The 2018 vintage has the potential to age gracefully over the next 10 to 15 years, developing additional complexity and depth. With proper cellaring, expect the emergence of tertiary notes such as dried fruits, leather, and earthy nuances, enhancing the wine’s richness and character.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Sangiovese

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5%

Scores

• James Suckling: 95 points

• Wine Advocate: 93 points

• Jeb Dunnuck: 93 points

• Wine Spectator: 92 points