What is special about Brunello di Montalcino?
Following a decade of maturation, the original fruit flavors of Brunello di Montalcino gracefully transform. There are secondary flavors and aromas such as a delightful blend of sweet dried figs, candied cherries, roasted hazelnuts, and sun-drenched leather.
Hence, whenever I can enjoy Brunello di Montalcino, I do, and you should do too!
Col d’Orcia Brunello di Montalcino Vertical Tasting
On a pleasant Thursday evening on the 7th of September, 2023, I had the pleasure of attending a Col d’Orcia vertical tasting session hosted by Santiago Marone Cinzano. The intimate event was at Corkbuzz, which Taub Family Selections meticulously organized. Santiago, a member of the renowned Cinzano family, presented a range of current and library vintages of his family’s illustrious Brunello di Montalcino. The selection included the 2018, 2004, and 1995 vintages, all of which have been highly regarded by wine enthusiasts and critics alike. In addition, Santiago showcased their highly acclaimed “Poggio al Vento” Brunello di Montalcino Riserva, which included the 2016, 2015, and 2004 vintages.
The tasting session was an enriching experience as Santiago provided in-depth insights and shared interesting anecdotes about each bottle. The attendees enjoyed sampling the various wines and comparing the flavors and aromas of the different vintages. The event was a testament to the expertise and dedication of the Cinzano family, producing top-quality wines for generations.
Santiano Marone Cinzano and “Poggio al Vento”
Santiago hosted the wine tasting, and you could tell how passionate he was about his vineyards. He embodies his family’s legacy gracefully refined and unique. His grandfather pioneered Montalcino to grow Sangiovese in sandy soil; now, the new generations have taken the mission of regenerating the most iconic of their Vineyards, “Poggio al Vento,” one vine at a time.
I was very impressed by “Poggio al Vento” Brunello di Montalcino Riserva during the masterclass with the vintages from 2015 to 2016. We can’t deny the flavor profiles of both vintages and aging potential, and we can agree that Brunello is well worth the wait! It has attracted many followers over the last thirty years due to its character, mild tannins, and pairing perfection with the Italian classics.
Santiago had many fascinating stories to share about each vintage. After reviewing the technical sheet, he even shared how he discovered the late harvest date for the 1995 vintage. Although we cannot change the past, it is crucial to continue preserving and advancing the Cinzano family’s legacy. They have taken their mission seriously across generations and have focused on regenerative practices and biodiversity.
Pairings that work
Did you say Pizza and Pasta?
Pair it with Col d’ Orcia Brunello di Montalcino Riserva
It’s worth noting that all these wines are now available for purchase in the United States through Taub Family Selections as part of Col d’Orcia‘s library program so that we can savor the experience of these world-class wines in the comfort of their homes.
As one of the original estates of Montalcino and now the largest certified organic vineyard in Tuscany, Col d’Orcia represents a benchmark for outstanding Brunello di Montalcino. The Marone Cinzano family strongly emphasizes biodiversity. Their entire estate includes vineyards, gardens, olive groves, tobacco, and wheat fields, all of which have been farmed organically since 2010. From the 2013 vintage, all Col d’Orcia wines are certified organic.
