At a glance

Producer

Castelli Martinozzi

Region

Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Sangiovese (Sangiovese Grosso)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40-$60 USD (as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Mature notes of sour cherry, dried plum, balsamic, forest floor, leather, with underlying orange peel and tobacco; integrated oak, subtle spices, elegant earthy finish.

Evolution: Tertiary structure emerging—earth, mushroom, and savory dried herb components layered with mature fruit. Tannins further softened compared to youth.

At peak: Peak was likely 2019-2024; currently elegant, harmonious, showing classic mature Brunello profile. Further storage will increase earth/tobacco, lessen fruit.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-plus

Tannins

Firm, well-integrated tannins; originally grippy, now becoming more supple

Alcohol

Typical Brunello: 13.5-14.5% ABV (label dependent, most commonly 14%)

Aging potential

Good for a mid-tier Brunello; may hold until 2028-2029 in ideal conditions, but primary fruit will fade gradually

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2019 to 2024

Optimal window

2018 to 2026

Current status

Late optimal/early plateau

Current condition

Likely near plateau, showing resolved tannins, integrated structure, and tertiary character emerging. Some bottles may have slight variation depending on storage.

This wine, like most 2012 Brunelli, reached peak maturity early due to the vintage’s generous fruit and supple tannin structure. While still enjoyable, the optimal window is beginning to close and tertiary notes take center stage.

Food pairing

Traditional Tuscan dishes: wild boar ragù, bistecca alla Fiorentina, aged pecorino, pappardelle with mushrooms, roast lamb, porcini risotto.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — Opens up mature, earthy notes and lets any remaining reductive aromas blow off. Sediment possible.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 4/10

Traditional viticulture; limited published information on solar energy, water use, cover crops, or specific environmental practices.

Castelli Martinozzi is a historic estate but has not publicized advanced sustainability initiatives or certifications. Their farming is conventional; no organic/biodynamic logos present on bottles, nor mention on producer/consortium sites. Packaging and transport follow Brunello norms (heavy glass, long international shipping). The score reflects below-average sustainability impact compared to newer, eco-certified Montalcino producers who openly implement biodiversity, water, and carbon reduction strategies.