At a glance

Producer

Biondi-Santi Tenuta Greppo

Region

Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Sangiovese Grosso (Brunello)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Bone Dry

Typical price

$250-$350 USD per bottle

Tasting profile

Red cherry, raspberry, violet, dried herbs, citrus peel, leather, markedly mineral, firm tannin, vibrant acidity.

Evolution: Complexity will build over time with notes of dried rose, sweet tobacco, earthy truffle, cedar, and spice.

At peak: Profound integration, tertiary nuance, polished tannin—legendary balance and perfume at peak.

Structure

Acidity

High, classically vibrant for Brunello

Tannins

High, refined, and persistent

Alcohol

Typically 13.5-14% ABV, impeccably balanced

Aging potential

Exceptional; 30+ years under proper cellar conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2029 to 2055

Optimal window

2026 to 2058

Current status

Ready to drink

Current condition

Youthful, showing vibrancy and deep structure; primary fruit, firm tannins.

Biondi-Santi's wines are known for their slow evolution. The 2018 vintage, from a classic producer with traditional vinification, will unfurl over decades. Peak drinking is expected as tannins resolve and secondary/tertiary aromas flourish, typically 15-30 years from harvest.

Food pairing

Traditional Tuscan fare: bistecca alla fiorentina, wild boar ragù, aged pecorino, porcini risotto, truffle dishes.

Serving

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — The wine has high tannins and is medium-bodied, which can benefit from aeration to soften the tannins and enhance its aromatic complexity.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Vineyards farmed with limited use of chemicals, focus on biodiversity, manual harvest; energy use in winery kept low, modernized water management, glass bottle packaging with recyclable materials.

Biondi-Santi has made strides toward environmental stewardship, practicing low-input viticulture and traditional hand-harvesting. While not certified organic or biodynamic, the winery minimizes chemical interventions and employs eco-friendly vineyard practices. Expansive export footprint contributes to carbon emissions, but efforts in recycling, vineyard biodiversity, and energy efficiency contribute positively. There is room for further improvement through formal certification and continued investment in renewable energy.