Though the birth of Brunello of Montalcino dates to the 19th century, the Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino that advances and protects its heritage is, relatively, a mere teenager. Founded in 1967—a year after Brunello of Montalcino was granted Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) status— today, the Consortium is integral to the ongoing education, promotion and relevance of the worldclass wines made in and around Montalcino. What is now a celebrated grape began as a simple red wine, traditionally produced by local farmers for daily consumption as part of the meal. Fifty years later, Sangiovese, the signature grape variety of the Brunello di Montalcino and Rosso di Montalcino (a DOC since 1983), is acclaimed for its elegance and versatility with a diversity of cuisines.
Thanks to a group of early producers who experimented with soils and vineyards, today Sangiovese makes terroir-driven wines that are both modern and reflect their Tuscan roots. The success of Brunello—now a DOCG, an added guarantee of quality and authenticity—and Rosso has led to two other appellations achieving DOC status: Moscadello di Montalcino, which specializes in white wines, and Sant’Antimo, a historic area that excels in wines made from international varieties. All bottles carry a guarantee of their origin. One of Tuscany’s most famous hill towns, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Montalcino has introduced wine lovers the world over to Brunello. Wineries here were the first to open their cellars for tours, creating a tradition of hospitality that continues to expand beyond the cellar. The Consorzio recently launched a free Smartphone app (“Brunello”) that maps out wine-related activities for travelers, including tasting rooms, shops, tours, restaurants, winery lodging and luxury services. Now, visitors to the region can easily access the new and old, small and large wineries that are bound together by their respect for nature, heritage and wine of the highest quality. Before visiting the land of Brunello, please visit www.consorziobrunellodimontalcino.it for ideas on how to experience this remarkable slice of Italy.
BRUNELLO AT A GLANCE
BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO
Made from 100% Sangiovese grapes. Bright garnet color with intense perfume. Dry, earthy and persistent on the palate. Capable of long aging. Enjoy with red meats, game, mushrooms, truffles, cheese.
ROSSO DI MONTALCINO
Made from 100% Sangiovese grapes. A younger dry wine featuring superb structure, vitality and fresh fruit aromas. Enjoy with international cuisine, sauced pastas, poultry and other light meats.
MOSCADELLO DI MONTALCINO
Made from the ancient and highly versatile white Muscat grape, the still and sparkling wines can be drunk young, and the luscious late harvest wine will become more savored over time.
SANT’ ANTIMO
Ready-to-drink, pleasant red and white wines as well as high-end, quality wines that will age. Pair these wines with a wide range of cuisines and courses.
Last Updated: May 4, 2023
