Pian delle Vigne Brunello di Montalcino (2020)

About this wine

The 1995 Pian delle Vigne Brunello di Montalcino by Antinori presents a deep ruby red color with garnet reflections, indicative of its maturity. On the nose, it offers complex aromas of ripe berries, Indian spices, and subtle hints of tobacco and cocoa. The palate is full-bodied and well-balanced, featuring silky tannins that lead to a long, persistent finish. This vintage marked Antinori's debut in Brunello production, showcasing their commitment to quality and tradition. The wine's structure and depth reflect the unique terroir of Montalcino, making it a noteworthy example of Sangiovese's potential in this region.

About the grape

Sangiovese, whose name means "blood of Jove," is a red grape variety that has been cultivated in Italy for centuries. In the mid-19th century, Clemente Santi of Montalcino identified a particular clone of Sangiovese, known as Sangiovese Grosso or Brunello, which produced wines with deeper color and greater aging potential. This clone became the foundation for Brunello di Montalcino wines, which are made exclusively from Sangiovese Grosso grapes. The unique terroir of Montalcino, with its varied soils and favorable climate, allows Sangiovese to fully express its characteristics, resulting in wines renowned for their complexity and longevity.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The 1995 Pian delle Vigne Brunello di Montalcino was the inaugural vintage from Antinori's Pian delle Vigne estate, marking the family's first venture into Brunello production.
• 🚂 The estate is named after a 19th-century railway station located on its grounds, adding a unique historical charm to the vineyard.
• 🌟 The 1995 vintage received a 90-point rating from Wine Spectator, praised for its 'gorgeous aromas of Indian spice and ripe berries.'
• 🍇 Brunello di Montalcino wines, like the 1995 Pian delle Vigne, are made exclusively from Sangiovese grapes, showcasing the varietal's full potential.
• 🪵 The 1995 vintage was aged in large oak casks for over three years, a traditional method that enhances the wine's complexity and aging potential.

Palate profile

Producer

Marchesi Antinori, established in 1385 when Giovanni di Piero Antinori joined the Florentine Winemakers' Guild, is one of the world's oldest family-owned wineries, now led by the 26th generation. The family has been instrumental in the 'Super Tuscan' movement, notably with the introduction of Tignanello in 1971, which blended Sangiovese with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, challenging traditional Italian winemaking norms. In 2012, they inaugurated the Antinori nel Chianti Classico winery, a state-of-the-art facility seamlessly integrated into the Tuscan landscape, reflecting their commitment to innovation and sustainability. Beyond Tuscany, Antinori has expanded globally, including establishing the Antinori Napa Valley estate in California's Atlas Peak AVA, showcasing their dedication to producing high-quality wines worldwide.