Region and Vineyards
South of Siena, Montalcino is one of Tuscany's most celebrated terroirs, known for its limestone-rich soils and striking elevation variations. Fattoria dei Barbi cultivates its Brunello vineyards between 300 and 500 m, facing primarily south, on a geological mix of galestro (friable marl) and alberese (compact limestone). These soils ensure drainage, moderate vine vigor, and concentration of flavor while retaining remarkable freshness and perfume.
The vines, planted between 1975 and 2017, are trained using the cordone libero system at approximately 5,000 vines per hectare. Yields average 65 q/ha, a balance aimed at purity and structure rather than extraction. The 2020 growing season began with a rainy spring, followed by a dry, sunny summer. A brief warm spell in July provided moderate stress that intensified ripening, while cool nights through August and September ensured slow phenolic maturity. Harvest took place between 15 September and 2 October, under ideal weather conditions.
Winemaking
Fattoria dei Barbi's Brunello 2020 is crafted from 100% Sangiovese grown exclusively on the estate's Montalcino vineyards. The grapes are destemmed and crushed, then subjected to a cold pre-fermentation maceration at 16 °C under CO₂ to extract delicate aromatics and color. Fermentation lasts 16-17 days at 27-28 °C. After malolactic fermentation, the wine is racked and begins its oak maturation.
Aging occurs in a combination of small and medium barrels (2.25-15 hl), followed by larger Slavonian oak casks. The total aging period is a minimum of two years in wood, followed by four months in bottle before release. This classical regime ensures both aromatic definition and structural refinement.Analytical data: 14.6% vol alcohol, TA 5.5 g/L, pH 3.45, residual sugar <1 g/L.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Bright ruby red of medium intensity with youthful garnet reflections.
- Aroma: Layers of red cherry, raspberry, violet, mint, nutmeg, and pepper, joined by subtle hints of tobacco and forest herbs.
- Palate: Full and harmonious, with supple yet firm tannins. The core of red fruit and spice is lifted by vibrant acidity, leading to a long, savory, and mineral finish of exceptional balance.
Did you know?
Fattoria dei Barbi holds one of Italy's most complete historical wine libraries, with nearly every Brunello vintage since 1892 preserved in its cellars. These bottles are often used by historians and sommeliers to trace the stylistic evolution of Montalcino's wines.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Roasted lamb with rosemary: The herbal perfume and richness of the dish echo the wine's red fruit and spice.
- Wild boar ragù with pappardelle: Brunello's tannins and earthy notes stand up beautifully to the gamey depth and umami of the sauce.
- Porcini-rubbed Florentine steak: The meat's charred crust and juicy core mirror the wine's robust structure and mineral backbone.
- Aged Pecorino Toscano: The cheese's nutty, salty edge pairs elegantly with the Brunello's savoury and spicy length.
