2019 Tenuta San Giorgio Ugolforte Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany, Italy

Taste: In the glass, the 2019 vintage shows a deep ruby hue with garnet reflections. Aromas unfold in layers of wild cherry, plum, violet, and dried herbs, interwoven with balsamic and mineral notes. The palate is complete and balanced, marked by polished tannins and a vibrant spine of acidity. Flavors of red fruit, sweet spice, and earth evolve toward a long, resonant finish. This is an elegant and expressive example of Brunello with both immediate drinkability and long-term cellaring potential.

Pairing: Brunello’s firm tannins, acidity, and earthy undertones make it an excellent companion for dishes with depth, umami, and some fat. It pairs classically with bistecca alla Fiorentina, slow-braised wild boar ragù over pappardelle, or roasted leg of lamb with garlic and anchovy.

About: The current era of Tenuta San Giorgio starts in 2016, when it was bought by the Tipa Bertarelli Family, founders of the ColleMassari Estates group, which also includes Poggio di Sotto in Montalcino, Grattamacco in Bolgheri, and Castello ColleMassari in Montecucco. Their leadership brought a renewed focus on precision, sustainability, and the nuanced expression of Sangiovese. Under their direction, the estate underwent major renovations, including a new cellar and expanded vineyard plantings. Today, it encompasses 360 acres (about 146 hectares), with 62 acres (25 hectares) under vine, about 10 to 20+ years old, and surrounded by over 110 hectares of natural forest that sustain local biodiversity and create protective buffers for the vines.