# Armatura Brunello di Montalcino (2019)

- **Producer:** Urban Wines
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €25
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, plum, redcurrant, rose, violet, herbaceous, vanilla, cedar, chocolate, smoke, leather, tobacco, forest floor, mushroom

## About this wine

Armatura is a collaborative project between the Swedish importer Urban Wines and the historic Tuscan estate Pietranera, owned by Società Agricola Centolani. Located southwest of the historic village of Montalcino, the vineyards sit on a sheltered, southeast-facing plateau. The microclimate here is highly influenced by Mount Amiata, which acts as a protective barrier, ensuring slow and stable grape ripening. This partnership was created to deliver an authentic, classical style of Brunello di Montalcino that remains accessible and food-friendly, celebrating the traditional identity of the region.

## Interesting facts

- Armatura is a unique collaboration between Swedish importer Urban Wines and the historic Tuscan estate Pietranera.
- The Pietranera estate name translates to 'black stone,' referencing the dark volcanic stones and mineral-rich soils of the vineyard.
- The wine is aged for 36 months in traditional Slavonian oak casks, far exceeding the minimum aging requirements for the appellation.

## Food pairing

This classic Brunello di Montalcino demands rich, savory dishes with high protein and fat content to soften its structured tannins. The vibrant acidity of the Sangiovese cuts through rich meats and pairs beautifully with tomato-based sauces, while the earthy, herbal notes of the wine complement rustic Tuscan herbs like rosemary and sage.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Armatura follows highly traditional, non-interventionist methods. Grapes are gently destemmed, crushed, and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. Traditional long skin macerations of up to 30 days are utilized to optimize structure, color, and tannin extraction. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 36 months in large, traditional Slavonian oak casks, preserving the bright, savory character of the Sangiovese grape. It then undergoes an additional 12 months of bottle aging before its commercial release.