The Benchmark Brunello, Vintage After Vintage

The 2020 Cerbaiona Brunello di Montalcino is an exquisite expression of refined winemaking rooted in terroir and tradition. Sourced entirely from Sangiovese Grosso vines planted across three small vineyard parcels (established in 1978, 1983, and 2000) on Cerbaiona’s northeast-facing hillsides near Montalcino, the vineyards benefit from clay-limestone (galestro) and sand-rich soils at around 350–400 meters above sea level. Since 2015, the estate has been farmed organically under its new ownership, with dense planting (approximately 3,600 vines/hectare) and selected Sangiovese clones to maximize expression of the site. Hand-harvested grapes undergo spontaneous fermentation in open- topped wooden or vitrified concrete vats using native yeasts, with gentle extraction via manual punch-downs and minimal remontage. After fermenting and completing malolactic conversion, the wine matured for an extended period—over two years—in large Slavonian oak casks of 10, 17, and 20 hectoliters. The result is a Brunello of remarkable balance and nuance: deep garnet in color with layered aromas of red berries, forest floor, and sweet spices; a palate that marries power and elegance with fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity; all underscored by a mineral tone and poised for long-term evolution.