Drive south from Firenze and through the Chianti heartland and you come to the lovely old town of Montalcino. Surrounding this ancient enclave are the rolling hills of Brunello di Montalcino – and here the noble Sangiovese grape (as used to make Chianti) reaches layers of richness and body found nowhere else in Tuscany.
The first region to be granted DOCG status, and much smaller than Chianti, Brunello has built a formidable reputation. The clone of Sangiovese used here is called “Grosso” or “Brunello”, which was isolated in the mid 19thCentury by Clementi Santi (of in time Biondi-Santi fame) which, allied to the warmer and drier growing conditions, generally makes wines of greater power and structure than in Chianti. There are now over 200 growers in the DOCG.
Already with a high reputation, San Polo was bought by the Allegrini family in 2006 and they have invested heavily in the vineyards and winery. Made in a “modernist” style, with French oak, San Polo is always one of the more refined wines in the DOCG.
“This is a fantastic effort with a mouth feel that is as delicate and light as it is meaningful and long-lasting. The overall effect is one of elegance and finesse. This is a highly recommendable achievement from a classic vintage.” Monica Larner – Wine Advocate
Drink now with decanting – simply wonderful!
Nick Adams MW
£45 each
