Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino Riserva

About this wine

Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is the legendary wine that birthed the Brunello appellation. Produced exclusively at the Tenuta Greppo estate in Montalcino, this wine is crafted from the oldest Sangiovese Grosso vines when the vintage is deemed exceptional. It is renowned for its extraordinary longevity, structural elegance, and complex aromatic profile, featuring notes of dried cherries, leather, tobacco, and forest floor. This is a benchmark of Italian viticulture, representing the pinnacle of traditional winemaking in Tuscany.

Sommelier's Note

"This is an absolute masterpiece of Italian wine history. You must experience this wine at least once in your life to understand the true potential of Sangiovese."

Food Pairings

Pairs perfectly with roasted game, aged pecorino cheese, and truffle-based dishes. Its high acidity and tannins also make it a sophisticated match for rich, savory dishes.

When to drink it

Ideal for milestone celebrations, formal dinners, or as a centerpiece for a serious collector's tasting.

Specs

Grape Varieties

Sangiovese Grosso

Style

Red

Price Range

¥40,000-100,000+

Terroir & Winemaking

The wine undergoes long maceration on the skins and is aged for several years in large Slavonian oak barrels. It is bottled without filtration to preserve its structural integrity and aging potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it taste like?

It offers a complex profile of dried red fruits, balsamic notes, leather, and refined earthy undertones, with firm but polished tannins and vibrant acidity.

When is the best time to drink it?

It requires at least 10 to 15 years of aging from the vintage date to reach its peak maturity. The finest vintages can evolve beautifully for 50 years or more.

Does it need decanting?

Yes, decanting for at least two hours is essential to allow the wine to breathe and soften its tannins. For older vintages, careful decanting to separate any sediment is recommended.

What makes the Riserva different from the regular Brunello?

The Riserva is produced only in exceptional vintages from the oldest vines at Tenuta Greppo. It receives extended aging — at least 6 years before release — and represents the absolute pinnacle of Biondi-Santi's production.

How should I store this wine?

Store horizontally in a cool, dark cellar at around 12–14°C with stable humidity. Given its extraordinary aging potential, proper cellar conditions are essential to allow it to reach its full expression.