What makes a Brunello di Montalcino Riserva special?

The term “Riserva” is not just a marketing term, but is strictly regulated by Italian wine law. For a wine to be called Riserva, it must meet stricter requirements than the regular Brunello di Montalcino:

1. Selection of the grapes: Only the very best Sangiovese grapes are selected for the production of a Riserva. These grapes often come from old vines or from the most favourably situated plots, where the quality and concentration of the grapes are at their best.
2. Longer maturation: Where a regular Brunello must mature for at least four years (two of which in wood), a Riserva must mature for at least five years, of which at least two years in oak barrels and at least six months in bottle. This longer maturation process gives the wine more complexity and depth.
3. Limited production: Because the Riserva is only produced in the best years and exclusively from top quality grapes, production is often very limited. This contributes to the exclusivity of the wine.

The production process of Brunello di Montalcino Riserva

The process begins in the vineyard, where there is a strict selection for grape quality. During the harvest, only the perfectly ripe and healthy bunches are picked. After fermentation in stainless steel tanks or concrete vats, the young wine is transferred to large Slovenian oak barrels or smaller French barriques.

The longer maturation period in wood helps to soften the tannins and develop complex aromas, such as dried fruit, spices, leather and tobacco. After the wood maturation follows a mandatory bottle maturation, during which the wine further integrates and refines.

What does a Riserva bring extra?

The extra time and care put into a Brunello di Montalcino Riserva results in a wine that is richer, more complex and more structured than regular Brunello. Here are a few reasons why the Riserva offers an extra dimension:

1. Complexity: The longer maturation provides a wide range of aromas and flavors. In addition to the typical notes of cherries and plums, secondary and tertiary aromas such as spices, cedar and truffle develop.
2. Lifespan: A Riserva has enormous storage potential. Due to the higher concentration and maturation, this wine can often mature for decades, developing more and more nuances.
3. Exclusivity: The limited production makes a Riserva not only scarce, but also sought after by collectors and wine lovers. It is a wine that is often seen as a showpiece in a wine collection.
4. Depth and balance: Thanks to the refinement during the long maturation, a Riserva is generally better balanced and offers a harmony between fruit, acidity, tannins and wood influences.

Why is a Riserva made?

The production of a Riserva reflects the winemaker's ambition to make a top wine that captures the essence of the terroir and craftsmanship. It is a tribute to tradition and a means to achieve the highest level of quality. In good vintages, when nature offers optimal conditions, winemakers seize the opportunity to produce a Riserva.