Brunello of Montalcino

Brunello di Montalcino is a red DOCG wine produced in Tuscany, in the municipality of Montalcino. Brunello di Montalcino can be considered, together with Barolo, the Italian red wine with the greatest longevity. Brunello is the name that was given locally in Montalcino to what was believed to be a variety of grape. In 1879 the Ampelographic Commission of the Province of Siena determined, after several years of controlled experiments, that Sangiovese and Brunello were the same variety of grape. In Montalcino the name Brunello was therefore transformed into the designation of the wine produced purely from Sangiovese grapes. Brunello di Montalcino must be subjected to a period of refinement of at least two years in oak containers of any size, and of at least four months in the bottle, and cannot be released for consumption before 1 January of the year following the end of five years calculated considering the year of the harvest. Brunello di Montalcino can be labeled "Riserva" if released for consumption after January 1st of the year following the end of six years, calculated considering the vintage of the harvest, while maintaining a minimum of two years of aging in oak containers, but at least six months in the bottle. The 6% of wine from the vintage being aging, to be used exclusively for topping up, can be kept in containers other than oak. The elegance and harmonious body of the wine allow pairings with very structured and composite dishes such as red meats, game, possibly accompanied by mushrooms and truffles. It also pairs well with international cuisine dishes based on meat or with sauces. Brunello is also a wine that pairs well with cheeses: matured toma and structured cheeses. Furthermore, due to its characteristics, it is also enjoyable as a meditation wine.