Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino Annata

About this wine

Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino Annata is the historic benchmark for Brunello, crafted at the Tenuta Greppo estate. As the originators of the Brunello style, Biondi-Santi utilizes 100% Sangiovese Grosso from their own vineyards, selected from vines too young for the Riserva. The wine undergoes traditional fermentation in concrete vats, followed by long aging in large Slavonian oak botti (minimum 3 years in barrel, 2 years in bottle). Characterized by notes of dried cherries, forest floor, leather, and subtle spices, it balances power with extraordinary finesse. Unlike the Riserva — released only in exceptional vintages — the Annata is produced every year from qualified vintages, making it the essential introduction to the Biondi-Santi style.

Sommelier's Note

"The gold standard of Brunello — experiencing this wine at least once is essential to understanding the true potential of the Sangiovese grape and Italian fine wine culture."

Food Pairings

Pairs exceptionally well with roasted red meats, game birds, wild boar, and aged pecorino or parmigiano-reggiano. Its high acidity and structured tannins also complement umami-rich Japanese dishes — grilled wagyu beef, soy-glazed duck, charcoal-grilled lamb, and richly seasoned braised burdock.

When to drink it

Ideal for milestone celebrations, formal dinners, or the centerpiece of a serious collector's tasting. A wine to uncork on the most meaningful occasions in life.

Specs

Grape Varieties

Sangiovese Grosso

Style

Red

Price Range

¥15,000-25,000

Terroir & Winemaking

100% Sangiovese Grosso (Brunello) from Tenuta Greppo estate in Montalcino, Tuscany. Grapes are selected from vines not old enough for the Riserva. Fermentation in concrete vats with indigenous yeasts. Long maceration to extract color and tannins. Minimum 3 years aging in large Slavonian oak botti, followed by minimum 2 years in bottle. No barriques used. Released approximately 5 years after harvest. Total minimum aging: 5 years (DOCG requires 5 years for Brunello Annata, 6 for Riserva).

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Biondi-Santi Brunello Annata taste like?

It features a complex profile of dried red berries (cherry, plum), dried herbs, leather, and earthy notes with firm, elegant tannins and vibrant acidity. With age, it develops secondary notes of tobacco, sandalwood, and forest floor.

What is the difference between the Annata and the Riserva?

The Annata is produced every qualifying vintage from younger vines and requires a minimum of 5 years aging before release. The Riserva is made only in exceptional vintages from vines at least 25 years old, with a minimum 6 years aging — resulting in greater concentration, complexity, and longevity.

When is the best time to drink it?

It requires at least 10 years from the vintage date to reach its peak, though it can age gracefully for 20–30 years or more. Decanting for a minimum of 2 hours before serving is essential to fully open the wine.

Does it need decanting?

Yes, decanting for at least 2 hours is essential to allow the wine to breathe and reveal its full aromatic complexity. For older vintages, 3–4 hours is recommended, and a fine mesh strainer or Coravin can help manage any sediment.

What is the history and significance of the Biondi-Santi estate?

The Biondi-Santi family is credited with creating Brunello di Montalcino as a wine category. In 1870, Ferruccio Biondi-Santi selected a Sangiovese clone — now called Brunello — on his Tenuta Greppo estate. The estate has maintained virtually unchanged winemaking traditions for over 150 years, making it one of Italy's most historically important wine producers.