Brunello di Montalcino (1981)

About this wine

This 1981 Brunello di Montalcino from Livio Sassetti's Pertimali estate showcases the depth and complexity that comes with over four decades of aging. On the nose, it offers a rich bouquet of dried cherries, leather, and earthy spices, reflecting its time in the bottle. The palate reveals a harmonious blend of mature red fruit flavors, complemented by notes of tobacco and a hint of balsamic. The tannins have softened beautifully, providing a smooth and lingering finish. This wine is a testament to the longevity and elegance of traditional Brunello di Montalcino.

About the grape

Sangiovese, whose name means "blood of Jupiter," is a grape variety with deep roots in Italy, particularly in Tuscany. In the mid-19th century, Clemente Santi of Montalcino began isolating Sangiovese clones to produce a wine capable of long aging, leading to the creation of Brunello di Montalcino. Livio Sassetti, a co-founder of the Brunello Consortium in 1967, recognized the potential of Sangiovese in the Montosoli area, acquiring vineyards there in 1960. The unique terroir of Montosoli, with its calcareous clay soils and favorable climate, provides ideal conditions for cultivating Sangiovese, contributing to the distinctive character of wines from this region.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The Sassetti family has been producing wine in Montalcino for over a century, with Livio Sassetti being a co-founder of the Consorzio del Brunello di Montalcino in 1967.
• 🏞️ The Pertimali estate, owned by the Sassetti family, is located on the Montosoli hill, renowned for its exceptional terroir for Sangiovese grapes.
• 🍇 Brunello di Montalcino, including the 1981 vintage from Pertimali, is made exclusively from 100% Sangiovese grapes, known locally as 'Brunello.'
• ⭐ The 1981 vintage of Brunello di Montalcino was rated as 'pregevole' (commendable) by the Consorzio del Brunello di Montalcino, indicating a high-quality year.
• ⏳ Brunello di Montalcino wines are known for their remarkable aging potential, with well-made examples from exceptional vintages developing for several decades.

Palate profile

Producer

The Sassetti family has been producing wine in Montalcino, Italy, for over a century. In 1967, Livio Sassetti co-founded the Consorzio del Brunello di Montalcino, playing a pivotal role in establishing the region's reputation. In the late 1970s, he acquired the 16-hectare Podere Pertimali vineyard in the Montosoli area, renowned for its exceptional Sangiovese grapes. Today, the estate is managed by Livio's son, Lorenzo Sassetti, and his wife, Sabina, who continue the family's tradition of producing high-quality wines. The winery also expanded in 1999 by acquiring vineyards in La Querciolina along the Tuscan coast.