At a glance

Producer

Campogiovanni (Tenuta San Felice)

Region

Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Sangiovese (Sangiovese Grosso)

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-$70 USD

Tasting profile

Ripe black cherry, wild berry, fresh red plum, violets, Mediterranean herb, and hints of tobacco and new leather. Oak influence present but unobtrusive, with youthful spice and vanilla.

Evolution: As it ages, expect notes of dried fig, autumn leaf, forest floor, sweet tobacco, balsam, and sandalwood, with silky tannins and savory depth.

At peak: At peak, elegant and complex, where fruit, earth, and sweet spice intermingle. Secondary and tertiary notes of licorice, balsamic, and truffle will be more pronounced.

Structure

Acidity

High, balanced with fruit concentration

Tannins

High, firm but ripe, classic for Brunello

Alcohol

14.5% ABV

Aging potential

Excellent: 18-25 years from vintage in good cellaring conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2040

Optimal window

2025 to 2042

Current status

Structured and youthful, with classic youthful tannin and acidity. Beginning to show aromatic complexity but primary fruit and structure still dominate.

Current condition

Can be enjoyed now with decanting; will benefit and gain further tertiary complexity with 3-8+ years cellaring.

2018 is a good, classic-leaning vintage for Brunello; Campogiovanni is a reputable, traditional producer. High acidity and tannin in Sangiovese Grosso guarantees long aging, and the DOCG tradition supports extended longevity. Peak expected 10-20+ years post-vintage, depending on cellaring.

Food pairing

Perfect with bistecca alla fiorentina, aged pecorino, wild boar ragù, roast lamb, truffle risotto, or mature hard cheeses. Also shines with game birds or earthy mushroom dishes.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (2-3 hours) — To soften youthful tannin and allow aromas to open; this helps integrate the structure and enhance early enjoyment.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Campogiovanni (under Tenuta San Felice) employs sustainable vineyard practices including use of cover crops, minimal synthetic herbicides, integrated pest management, and focuses on biodiversity. Water use is monitored and managed, and solar energy is incorporated into winery operations. Packaging is standard (glass bottle, natural cork) without light-weighting or alternative materials.

While not certified organic or biodynamic, Campogiovanni adopts modern sustainable viticulture and is part of producer groups (San Felice) that adhere to rigorous sustainability standards (Equalitas, VIVA) in both vineyard and cellar. They prioritize ecological balance and smart resource usage. Glass packaging and export logistics are typical for the region. There is continued progress, but there's opportunity for greater impact via organic conversion or more radical packaging/carbon reduction in the future.