Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona Brunello di Montalcino 2019

Winery Background and History

Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona is a historic estate located in the southern part of Montalcino, Tuscany. The estate’s origins date back to the 17th century, but it gained prominence in the 20th century under the guidance of Countess Elda Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona. In 1985, the estate was inherited by Giuseppe Bianchini, who transformed it into a renowned winery, emphasizing traditional winemaking methods and sustainable viticulture. Today, the Bianchini family continues to uphold the estate’s legacy, producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of Montalcino.

Producer and Winemaker

The Bianchini family, led by Paolo Bianchini, oversees the operations at Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona. Paolo, along with his children, continues the family’s commitment to quality and tradition. The winemaking philosophy focuses on expressing the purity of Sangiovese, utilizing large Slavonian oak barrels for aging to preserve the grape’s character. The family’s dedication to excellence has positioned the estate as one of the leading producers in the Brunello di Montalcino appellation.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The estate’s vineyards are situated in the southern part of Montalcino, benefiting from a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm days and cool nights. The soils are predominantly composed of marl and limestone, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the complexity of the wines. The combination of altitude, exposure, and soil composition creates an ideal environment for cultivating Sangiovese grapes, resulting in wines with depth, structure, and elegance.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is crafted from 100% Sangiovese grapes. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks with temperature control to ensure a slow and steady process, preserving the grape’s aromatic qualities. The wine is then aged for over 24 months in large Slavonian oak barrels, followed by additional aging in bottle before release. This traditional aging process imparts elegance and depth to the wine.

Tasting Notes

The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino exhibits a deep ruby red color with garnet reflections. On the nose, it offers intense aromas of ripe red berries, cherries, and plums, complemented by notes of Mediterranean herbs, violets, and subtle spices. The palate is full-bodied and harmonious, featuring well-integrated tannins, balanced acidity, and flavors of red fruits, licorice, and a hint of toasted oak. The finish is long and persistent, showcasing the wine’s complexity and aging potential.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Brunello pairs excellently with rich and hearty dishes. Ideal accompaniments include grilled red meats, game, and aged cheeses. Traditional Tuscan dishes such as wild boar ragù, bistecca alla fiorentina, or pappardelle with truffle sauce complement the wine’s robust character. The wine’s structure and depth also make it a suitable partner for mushroom-based dishes and savory stews.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the nuances of the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino, decant the wine for at least one hour before serving. Serve at a temperature of 18°C (64°F) in large, tulip-shaped glasses to allow the aromas to fully develop. This serving method enhances the wine’s bouquet and allows for a more expressive tasting experience.

Storage and Aging Potential

With its solid structure and balanced acidity, the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino has the potential to age gracefully for 15 to 20 years under proper cellaring conditions. Store the wine in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature and humidity to preserve its quality and allow it to develop additional complexity over time.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 100% Sangiovese

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

• 15%

Scores

• James Suckling: 94/100

• Wine Advocate: 95/100

• Decanter: 92/100