Brunello di Montalcino (2018)

About this wine

The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino from Vasco Sassetti presents a deep garnet red color. On the nose, it offers intense aromas of ripe black cherry, complemented by earthy undertones and hints of tobacco. As the wine opens, subtle notes of cedar and balsamic emerge, adding complexity. The palate is structured yet refined, with firm but polished tannins supporting flavors of ripe red berries and a subtle mineral edge. A long, persistent finish lingers with spice, leather, and dried fig hints. This wine is crafted from 100% Sangiovese grapes, showcasing the unique terroir of Montalcino.

About the grape

Sangiovese, whose name is believed to derive from 'sanguis Jovis' or 'blood of Jupiter,' is a red grape variety with ancient roots in Italy, particularly thriving in Tuscany. In the mid-19th century, Clemente Santi of Montalcino identified a specific clone of Sangiovese, known as Sangiovese Grosso, which he used to produce wines capable of extended aging. This clone became the foundation for Brunello di Montalcino, a wine made exclusively from Sangiovese Grosso grapes. The unique terroir of Montalcino, with its varied soils and favorable climate, allows Sangiovese to develop a distinctive profile, contributing to the wine's renowned complexity and longevity.

Quick facts

• 🍇 Brunello di Montalcino is crafted exclusively from the Sangiovese grape, locally known as 'Brunello,' ensuring a pure expression of this varietal.
• 🍷 The 2017 vintage of Vasco Sassetti's Brunello di Montalcino is noted for its deep garnet hue and complex aromas of dark cherry, dried rose petals, and earthy undertones.
• ⏳ Brunello di Montalcino wines are renowned for their exceptional aging potential, with well-made examples from outstanding vintages developing for several decades.
• ☀️ The Montalcino region, where Brunello is produced, has one of the warmest and driest climates in Tuscany, contributing to the full and consistent ripening of Sangiovese grapes.
• 🏅 Brunello di Montalcino was among the first wines awarded the prestigious DOCG status in 1980, highlighting its significance in Italian viticulture.

Palate profile

Producer

Founded in 1900 by Vasco Sassetti in Castelnuovo dell'Abate, Italy, the winery began with just four hectares of vineyards and a small cellar. In 1985, Vasco expanded the estate with the help of his cousin Terzilio Lanzini and wife Giovanna, increasing the vineyard area to 20 hectares. After Vasco's passing in 2009, the Lanzini family continued managing the winery, adding agritourism activities and maintaining a strong presence in Montalcino Salumi Srl. The modern cellar, built in 2004 with a stone façade, seamlessly integrates into the landscape and plays a key role from vinification to bottling.