# Badia al Colle Brunello di Montalcino DOCG (2018)

- **Producer:** Tenute Piccini Srl
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €35
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, plum, raspberry, violet, black pepper, vanilla, cloves, cedar, smoke, leather, tobacco, forest floor, dried cranberry

## About this wine

Badia al Colle is a proprietary label crafted by the renowned Piccini family, utilizing premium Sangiovese Grosso grapes from their dedicated Montalcino estate, Villa al Cortile. Located in the southern part of the Montalcino appellation, the vineyards benefit from a warmer microclimate and maritime breezes, producing wines of exceptional structure, elegance, and complexity. This wine represents the pinnacle of Tuscan winemaking, showcasing the unique terroir of one of Italy's most prestigious DOCG regions.

## Interesting facts

- Badia al Colle is sourced from Villa al Cortile, a boutique estate in Montalcino owned by the historic Piccini family.
- Brunello di Montalcino was the very first wine in Italy to be awarded the prestigious DOCG status in 1980.
- By law, Brunello cannot be released to the market until five years after the harvest year.

## Food pairing

The high acidity and robust, structured tannins of this Sangiovese cut beautifully through rich, fatty meats and savory sauces. The wine's earthy and tertiary notes complement game, mushrooms, and truffles, while its intense fruit profile stands up to aged cheeses without being overpowered.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for this Brunello di Montalcino follows strict DOCG regulations. Hand-harvested Sangiovese Grosso grapes undergo temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks with extended maceration on the skins to extract color, structure, and fine tannins. The wine is then aged for a minimum of 24 months in traditional oak casks, followed by additional refinement in the bottle before release, ensuring a harmonious integration of wood and fruit characteristics.