Brunello di Montalcino Riserva (1982)

About this wine

This 1982 Il Grappolo Riserva Brunello di Montalcino presents a deep garnet hue, indicative of its maturity. On the nose, it offers a complex bouquet of dried cherries, leather, and earthy undertones. The palate reveals flavors of stewed plums, tobacco, and a hint of spice, supported by well-integrated tannins and balanced acidity. The finish is long and lingering, with subtle notes of dried herbs and a touch of minerality. This wine exemplifies the aging potential of Brunello di Montalcino, reflecting the exceptional quality of the 1982 vintage.

About the grape

Sangiovese, Italy's most widely planted red grape, has deep roots in Tuscany, particularly in the Montalcino region. In the mid-19th century, Clemente Santi began experimenting with a local clone of Sangiovese, known as Sangiovese Grosso or Brunello, aiming to produce a wine with greater aging potential. His grandson, Ferruccio Biondi-Santi, continued this work, leading to the creation of Brunello di Montalcino, a wine made exclusively from this clone. The 1982 Il Grappolo Riserva Brunello di Montalcino is a product of this tradition, showcasing the unique qualities of Sangiovese Grosso cultivated in Montalcino's distinctive terroir.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 1982 vintage of Brunello di Montalcino was exceptional, characterized by a hot, dry summer with refreshing August rains, leading to perfectly ripened Sangiovese grapes harvested in early October.
• 🕰️ Brunello di Montalcino Riserva wines are aged for at least five years before release, with a minimum of two years in oak barrels and six months in the bottle, contributing to their complexity and longevity.
• 🌑 The name 'Brunello' translates to 'little dark one,' referring to the Sangiovese Grosso grape's dark skin, which is exclusively used in Brunello di Montalcino wines.
• 🏅 Brunello di Montalcino was among the first Italian wines to receive the prestigious DOCG status in 1980, recognizing its superior quality and strict production standards.
• 🏞️ The town of Montalcino, where Brunello di Montalcino is produced, is situated at nearly 1,800 feet above sea level, providing a unique terroir that contributes to the wine's distinctive character.

Palate profile

Producer

Il Grappolo is a winery located in the Brunello di Montalcino region of Tuscany, Italy. The estate's vineyards are situated on a broad terrace with south-facing slopes, benefiting from rocky, mineral-rich soils that contribute to the character of their wines. The winery practices rigorous sustainable farming and utilizes native yeast fermentation, aging their Brunello in large traditional Botti and neutral French barrels for a minimum of 30 months. The estate is owned by Aldo Giovannelli, with winemaking led by Stefano Tofanelli.