# Colombaio di Montosoli Brunello di Montalcino (2023)

- **Producer:** Baricci
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 18–20 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red cherry, red plum, black cherry, cedar, smoke, vanilla, leather, earth, tobacco, forest floor, dried fruit

## About this wine

Baricci Colombaio di Montosoli Brunello di Montalcino is a 100% Sangiovese wine from Montalcino, Tuscany. The producer, Baricci, is uniquely positioned as the only winery with all its vineyards located on the prestigious Montosoli hill. This northern Montalcino cru is known for its cooler microclimate and Pliocene-era soils, contributing to wines with notable elegance and complexity. The winery's history is deeply intertwined with the origins of Brunello di Montalcino, with founder Nello Baricci being the first signatory of the appellation's consortium. The 2023 vintage is not yet released, adhering to strict aging regulations.

## Interesting facts

- Baricci holds the very first membership badge (#1) from the Brunello di Montalcino Consorzio.
- The Montosoli hill is often referred to as the 'Grand Cru' of Montalcino.
- Baricci is the only producer with all its vineyards exclusively on the Montosoli cru.
- Nello Baricci, the founder, was born in 1921 and passed away in 2017.

## Food pairing

The wine's robust tannins and full body are well-suited to rich, protein-heavy dishes, where they can soften and integrate. Its bright acidity cuts through the richness of meats and fatty cheeses, cleansing the palate. Earthy notes often found in Brunello complement game and root vegetables.

## Wine making process

Baricci's Brunello di Montalcino is crafted using traditional methods. Grapes are fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for 18-25 days using natural yeasts. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for a minimum of 36 months in large Slavonian oak casks (20-40 Hl). A further 6-8 months of bottle aging precedes release. Vineyard management is characterized by meticulous handwork, and the estate is progressing towards organic certification. The focus remains on preserving the unique character of the Montosoli cru.