Size: 750ml
Grape: Sangiovese
Producer: Owned and operated by twin sisters Margherita and Francesca Padovani, who have been managing the estate since 1997.
Region: Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy. The vineyards are located in the southeastern part of the Montalcino zone, near Poggio San Polo, at an elevation of approximately 444 meters above sea level.
In the cellar: The grapes are hand-harvested between late September and October 10th. Fermentation occurs spontaneously with indigenous yeasts in conical oak vats, followed by an extended maceration period of 30 days. The wine is then aged in large oak barrels ranging from 20 to 50 hectoliters for up to 60 months prior to bottling. This extended aging process contributes to the wine’s depth, complexity, and elegance. The sisters don’t release their Brunello until they are ready to drink.
Farming method: Fonterenza practices certified biodynamic farming; the estate comprises approximately 4.2 hectares of contiguous vineyards, with soils varying from clay-loam to clay-schist. The vineyards are surrounded by forests, benefiting from the unique microclimate influenced by the nearby Mount Amiata and marine currents from the south.
Tasting notes: Spiced and expressive, the 2016 Brunello Di Montalcino pours a deep ruby with a purple tinge and has enveloping aromas of fresh pine, pressed violets, blackberry, and scorched earth. It is full-bodied, though not heavy, with notes of black plum, tea leaf, leather, and freshly turned soil. Its ripe tannins are present but not drying and fill a long arch of fruit throughout the finish. Pair with gamey dishes like wild boar tagliatelle or braised beef stew.