2021 Altesino - Brunello di Montalcino DOCG (750ml)

Altesino is one of Montalcino's most influential estates, based at the historic Palazzo Altesi in the hills northeast of town. Owned since 2002 by Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini, also proprietor of nearby Tenuta Caparzo, the winery has a long reputation for innovation, having introduced Italy's first single-vineyard Brunello cru in 1975 and pioneered the use of small French barriques in the region in 1979.

This Brunello is made entirely from Sangiovese Grosso, hand-harvested from the Altesino, Castelnuovo dell'Abate, Macina, and Pianezzine vineyards, sites chosen for the elegance and finesse they bring to the blend. By law, Brunello di Montalcino must age a minimum of four years before release, and Altesino follows tradition here, aging the wine in large Slavonian oak casks for at least two years before further refinement in bottle.

The 2021 pours a bright ruby red and opens with citrus-tinged aromatics of tangerine, red cherry, dried herbs, and pressed flowers. On the palate it is medium-bodied and precise, with well-defined tannins, brisk acidity, and a savory, mouthwatering finish. It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted lamb, or aged pecorino.