Description
Founders of the Brunello di Montalcino appellation, Biondi-Santi produced the first Brunello in history in 1888 at the hands of Ferruccio Biondi Santi. Since then, this fabled estate has ensured the excellency of its wines, known for their extreme longevity, through seven generations.
The 150-hectare property, which neighbours Costanti’s estate, comprises 32 hectares of vineyard split over five sites. Tenuta Greppo, at 500 metres above sea level, is where the historical winery and estate villa are situated and where the oldest plot, planted in 1936, is to be found. The other vineyard sites, Scarnacuoia, Pievecchia, I Pieri and Ribusuoli, are located respectively to the west, north, east and south-east of the town of Montalcino, all preserving a predominantly eastern exposition and high elevations. They are instrumental in preserving Biondi-Santi’s signature style, driven by elegance, fresh acidity and moderate alcohol. The oldest vineyards, aged over 25 years old, are the source of grapes for Biondi-Santi’s Riserva, while the 10 to 25-year-old vineyards are used for the Brunello di Montalcino and those younger than 10 years are used for the Rosso di Montalcino.
The gateway into the Biondi-Santi universe passes through the Rosso di Montalcino, a true standout in its category. Aged for 12 months in large Slavonian oak casks, the resulting wine offers brilliant fruit and is perfect for enjoying young, while preserving the typical Biondi-Santi depth and character.
Today Biondi-Santi is owned by Christopher Descours, of Charles Heidsieck, Piper-Heidsieck, Rare Champagne and Château La Verrerie. He has entrusted the leadership of this famed estate to Tuscan-born Giampiero Bertolini and head winemaker Federico Radi. Together they aim to bring the heritage of this iconic winery into the future, exploring new peaks of excellence while preserving the estate’s historic style and vision.
This wine is bright ruby red in colour with an intense bouquet of raspberries, wild strawberries and redcurrants, intertwined with sour cherries that are typical of a cool vintage Sangiovese. The bright fruit flavours mingle with scents of violet and Mediterranean herbs. Elegant and distinguished, the palate reveals its impressive structure with a lively freshness and a centered, fruity core. Fine-grained tannins lead to a fragrant and deliciously savoury finish.