# Brunello di Montalcino DOCG (2019)

- **Producer:** Castello Romitorio
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese
- **Region:** Tuscany, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €98
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–20 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** rose, bilberry, black cherry, sour cherry, plum, red cherry, violet, ripe strawberry, spice, leather, toasted almond, grilled herb, tea, wild thyme, dried rose petals, stony mineral elements, lavender, rosemary

## About this wine

The Brunello di Montalcino DOCG from Castello Romitorio is a 100% Sangiovese wine from Tuscany. The estate, acquired and revitalized by artist Sandro Chia, is managed by his son Filippo Chia, who upholds a philosophy of enhancing the vineyard's inherent qualities. Located in the northwest of Montalcino, the vineyards draw nutrients from clay and alberese soils. The estate is on a path towards organic certification, with farming practices focused on low impact and sustainability. The artistic vision of the Chia family is also reflected in the wine's labels.

## Interesting facts

- Wine Spectator ranked this wine #28 in its Top 100 Wines of 2024.
- The estate's vineyards are integrated with local vegetation.
- The artwork on the wine labels is created by the owner, artist Sandro Chia.
- The journey towards organic certification began in 2020.

## Food pairing

The wine's robust tannins and full body are well-suited to complement the richness and protein of red meats, creating a balanced palate. Acidity helps to cut through fattier dishes, while the wine's herbal and spice notes can echo or contrast with similar elements in the food.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Brunello di Montalcino Castello Romitorio begins with hand-harvested and meticulously sorted Sangiovese grapes. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, preceded by a short cold maceration on the skins. The wine then matures for an extended period, typically 24 months in French oak barrels or a mix of French tonneaux and Slavonian casks. Following barrel aging, the wine refines further in the bottle for at least six months before release, allowing for integration and development.