At a glance

Producer

Frescobaldi

Region

Tuscany, Italy (Brunello di Montalcino DOCG)

Grape variety

Sangiovese (Brunello)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$55-$75 USD

Tasting profile

Intense aromas of wild cherry, dark berries, dried violet, savory herbs, and integrated oak spices. Palate is structured, vibrant, with pronounced tannins and cherry/blackberry fruit underpinned by earth and sweet tobacco.

Evolution: Over time, fruit will mellow, tannins soften, and more complex notes of leather, dried rose, forest floor, balsamic, and truffle will surface. Acidity will preserve freshness.

At peak: At peak maturity, a harmonious, layered wine exhibiting classic Brunello notes: dried cherries, cedar, aromatic herbs, subtle mineral, and tertiary development.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, providing vibrancy and ageworthiness

Tannins

High, fine-grained, youthful but integrating

Alcohol

14.5% ABV (typical for the style)

Aging potential

Long—20-30 years from vintage in strong vintages like 2018

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2040

Optimal window

2026 to 2045

Current status

Structured and promising, entering early drinking window

Current condition

Firm tannic structure, fresh acidity, tightly coiled primary fruit; will develop further complexity with cellaring

2018 was a very good but classic vintage in Montalcino: wines have balance, depth, and acidity for extensive aging. Top estates like Frescobaldi produce structured wines with real longevity. This Brunello will show best and most complex evolution from 2028 onward, and can age beautifully for over 25 years in proper conditions.

Food pairing

Rich dishes such as Osso Buco, Florentine steak, game meats (venison, wild boar), aged pecorino cheese, mushroom risotto, or braised lamb. Pairs well with earthy, savory Mediterranean cuisine.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — Young Brunello benefits from aeration to soften tannins and open aromatics.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Frescobaldi employs sustainable vineyard management: minimal chemical intervention, cover cropping, biodiversity corridors, reduction of herbicides/pesticides, organic matter composting, sustainable water use. Winery initiatives include energy-saving LED lighting, solar panels at estates, lightweight glass bottles, eco-friendly packaging, and support of local ecosystems.

Frescobaldi is a leader for sustainability among historic Tuscan wine estates. Castelgiocondo is Equalitas certified, the highest standard for sustainability in Italian wine, covering environmental, social, and economic aspects. Vineyard and winery initiatives demonstrate measurable progress in reducing chemical input, improving energy efficiency, and promoting region-specific biodiversity. While not certified organic throughout, integrated and regenerative practices yield high sustainability performance. The remaining carbon footprint is tied to global logistics, typical of large DOCG producers.