Introduction:
A beautifully poised and structured Brunello di Montalcino, the 2019 Altesino embodies the region’s hallmark finesse and depth. With precise balance, layered nuances, and refined elegance, it delivers a compelling evolution of Sangiovese from one of Tuscany’s most respected producers.
Terrior:
Sourced from Altesino’s mature vineyards on south-facing hillside terraces around Montalcino, planted in galestro and calcareous clay soils. Its elevation and optimal aspect offer excellent drainage and sun exposure, while cool evenings preserve natural acidity and support aromatic intensity.
Appearance:
Deep ruby transitioning to a garnet rim—bright, clear, and indicative of graceful aging.
Nose:
Composed and layered, the bouquet offers ripe cherry, sour red plum, and blackberry, intertwined with dried rose petal, tobacco leaf, and licorice. Secondary aromas of cedar, forest floor, and warm spices (clove, cinnamon) deepen the complexity, conveying earth, age, and elegance.
Palate:
Full-bodied yet finely tuned, the palate reveals lush layers of black cherry, Morello plum, and dark raspberry, balanced by a savory core of leather, dried herbs (sage, thyme), and crushed stone. Fine-grained, polished tannins provide structure, while lively acidity keeps the wine fresh and focused.
Finish:
Long and graceful, with lingering fruit tones, herbal echoes, subtle spice, and a mineral thread that carries through to a poised, sustained close.
Overall Impression:
Altesino’s 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a majestic and patient wine—classic yet compellingly modern. It offers immediate enjoyment with a swirling glass, yet promises depth and evolution over 10+ years. Perfect with grilled red meats, wild game, rich pasta dishes, and aged Tuscan cheeses.
Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: Altesino
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: Italy
Region: Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany
Grape Varietals: 100% Sangiovese Grosso
Vintage: 2019
Wine Style: Dry Red; Full-bodied with refined tannins, bright acidity, and layered complexity
Winemaking Techniques: Fermented in stainless steel with controlled maceration; aged 24 months in large Slavonian oak barrels, followed by at least 12 months of bottle aging before release
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Glass Bottle
Closure Style: Natural Cork
95 points, Jeb Dunnuck:
"Pouring a rich ruby color, the 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino offers an attractive nose of cherry candies, sweet herbs, polished leather, and orange oils. It moves seamlessly to the palate with equally harmonious structure and a great, long finish. Medium to full-bodied, it lasts for ages. This is one of those wines that’s going to have a very wide drinking window and is exceptional already. Drink 2026-2046." (2/28/24)
95 points, Decanter:
"Altesino was the first producer in Montosoli, helping to elevate the fame of this cru. Montosoli undergoes extended aging of 28 months in large 60hl French and Slavonian oak casks. Very classic, here the typical smoky woodland aroma mingles with cherry and strawberry fruit; fresh and elegant. Liquorice, leather, and tobacco lend a dark profile to the wine. The broad palate has fierce acidity and velvety tannins, with a long, stern finish." (9/3/23)
95 points, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:
"The Altesino 2019 Brunello di Montalcino boasts a rich and savory side that this wine wears very well. There is a beautiful level of dark fruit that folds into the wine's velvety texture. Blackberry and plum envelop the palate, adding elegant full-bodied volume and fine tannins along the way. The wine is aged in traditional Slavonian casks, and production reaches 110,000 bottles annually (which is very ambitious considering this level of quality)" (12/14/23)
94 points, Vinous:
"A dark ruby color in the glass, the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a beguiling blend of dusty earth, crushed rocks, savory herbs, and dried roses. This is racy and sleek, with vividly ripe wild berry fruits elevated by orange and sage, all guided by vibrant acidity. Grippy tannins take control through the finish, yet the mouth is left watering for more as a licorice tinge and dark chocolate adds a crunchy sensation." (11/23)
93 points, Wine Spectator:
"Though solidly structured, this red displays macerated flavors of cherry, plum, earth and wild herbs, backed by vibrant acidity. A hint of chocolate graces the finish alongside dense tannins. Best from 2026 through 2039. Tasted twice, with consistent notes." (6/30/24 edition)
93 points, James Suckling:
"A medium-bodied red with pretty plum and berry aromas and flavors. Fine tannins and a fresh finish. Very fine and focused. Not the most structured but this is all about finesse and polish. Drinkable but better in two or three years." (9/25/23)