Antinori - Pian delle Vigne - Brunello di Montalcino

Antinori is the most famous name in Italian wine and the influence of Piero Antinori in the last 25 years has been nothing short of revolutionary. Antinori's flagship wine, Tignanello, first appeared in 1971 and caused a sensation by its use of Cabernet Sauvignon in a Sangiovese blend and with its practice of ageing in small French barriques. Antinori was accused of vinous treachery and treason but soon barrique-aged blends of Sangiovese and Cabernet began appearing all across Tuscany.

Brunello di Montalcino is a prestigious wine appellation located in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. This region is known for producing some of the finest wines in the world, and Brunello di Montalcino is no exception. The history of this appellation dates back to the 14th century, when the first vineyards were planted in the area. Today, Brunello di Montalcino is recognized as one of the most important wine regions in Italy, and its wines are highly sought after by wine enthusiasts around the world.

The style of production for Brunello di Montalcino is very traditional, with a focus on quality and attention to detail. The grapes used to make this wine are exclusively Sangiovese, which is known for its rich, complex flavors and aromas. The vineyards in this region are located at high altitudes, which helps to create a unique microclimate that is ideal for growing Sangiovese grapes. The grapes are harvested by hand and carefully sorted to ensure only the best quality fruit is used in the wine.

The wines produced in Brunello di Montalcino are typically full-bodied and complex, with rich flavors of dark fruit, leather, and tobacco. These wines are aged for a minimum of two years in oak barrels, which helps to add depth and complexity to the wine. The aging process also helps to soften the tannins in the wine, making it more approachable and enjoyable to drink.

There are several different types of Brunello di Montalcino wines, each with its own unique characteristics. The most common type is the Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, which is made from 100% Sangiovese grapes and aged for a minimum of two years in oak barrels. This wine is known for its rich, complex flavors and aromas, and is considered one of the finest wines in Italy.

Another type of Brunello di Montalcino wine is the Rosso di Montalcino DOC, which is made from the same Sangiovese grapes as the Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, but is aged for a shorter period of time. This wine is lighter and more approachable than the Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, and is often enjoyed as a more casual wine.

Overall, Brunello di Montalcino is a wine appellation that is steeped in history and tradition. Its wines are highly sought after by wine enthusiasts around the world, and are known for their rich, complex flavors and aromas. If you are looking for a truly exceptional wine, Brunello di Montalcino is definitely worth trying.