At a glance

Producer

San Polino

Region

Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Sangiovese

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Bone Dry

Typical price

$175-$220 USD (release price, global average retail)

Tasting profile

Vivid dark cherry, wild herbs, violet, tobacco, intense minerality, pronounced oak.

Evolution: Over time, the fruit deepens, oak and tannin integrates, earthy and truffle notes develop.

At peak: Profound bouquet of dried fig, truffle, balsamic, violets, leather, and dried herbs; polished and harmonious palate.

Structure

Acidity

Medium to high, classic for Sangiovese

Tannins

High, firm, finely woven

Alcohol

Typically around 14.5% ABV

Aging potential

Very high; easily 15-20 years in proper cellaring conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2038

Optimal window

2027 to 2042

Current status

Still very young and youthful; structured, not yet at peak.

Current condition

Primary fruit and firm tannins dominate. Cellaring recommended.

Structured Riserva Brunello made for long aging; time is required for tannin polymerization and integration of oak. Its intensity and acidity support decades of cellaring.

Food pairing

Braised beef, wild boar, aged Pecorino, porcini risotto, roast lamb with rosemary.

Serving

Decant

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

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Estate is organically farmed with biodynamic methods; no herbicides/pesticides; focus on biodiversity; hand-harvested; solar energy used; water conservation systems; eco-friendly packaging (lightweight bottles, recycled materials).

San Polino is a pioneer in Montalcino for organic and biodynamic viticulture, maintaining full ecosystem health and minimizing chemical use. The estate runs on renewable energy, employs water conservation and composting, recycles packaging materials, and engages in local biodiversity preservation. Wines are hand-labeled and bottled at the estate. The main remaining carbon cost is overseas shipping, but the producer supports carbon offset projects to reduce impact. Their sustainability credentials are among the highest in Italy.