Poggio di Sotto - Brunello di Montalcino 2020

The grapes for this wine come from the prestigious Poggio di Sotto estate, located in the southern part of Montalcino, near Castelnuovo dell'Abate. The vineyards are located at 200 to 450 meters above sea level, which ensures significant temperature differences between day and night. This favors the slow ripening and increases the aromatic complexity of the grapes.

The soil consists of a rich mix of galestro (friable claystone), sandstone and clay, which forces the roots of the vines to dig deep. This contributes to the minerality and structure of the wine.

The harvest took place in early October 2019 and was carried out entirely by hand. Only the best bunches were selected, so that only the most concentrated and healthy grapes were used.

After fermentation with indigenous yeasts in large open wooden vats, the wine was aged according to the traditional method of Poggio di Sotto: Maturation: 30 months in large Slavonian oak barrels. Additional bottle aging: Minimum 6 to 12 months before release.

This long maturation allows the wine to maintain its freshness, complexity and elegance, while refining its tannins. The influence of the wood is subtle and supports the wine without overpowering it, which is characteristic of the refined style of Poggio di Sotto.

The Poggio di Sotto Brunello di Montalcino 2019 is a textbook example of finesse and terroir expression. The combination of refined aromas, lively acidity and a silky structure makes this wine a pleasure to drink now, but it will continue to develop over the next 20 to 30 years. A must-have for lovers of classic and elegant Brunello di Montalcino.

98+/100 Points Robert Parker

The Poggio di Sotto 2019 Brunello di Montalcino remains a little closed, even rigid, at the moment. It can be compared to the cool 2013 and 2016 vintages that both required an extra five or six years before they started to shine. However, there's no escaping the power that remains just under the surface. You feel it budding and yearning to break free. Dark fruit aromas fold into crushed stone, grilled rosemary and blue flower. It's fun to taste this wine next to the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva because you really see how much further this vintage will require in the cellar. Both wines remain tight and nervous at this point but are full of potential.

96/100 Points James Suckling

Sweet cherry and flower aromas with some orange peel and lilac character. Medium-bodied with pretty depth and focus. Ripe, fine tannins and an attractive finish. Subtle richness and class. From organically grown grapes. Give this three or four years to come around. Best after 2025.