At a glance

Producer

Argiano

Region

Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Sangiovese

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Bone Dry

Typical price

$60-$90 USD retail (2024 global average)

Tasting profile

Ripe red cherry, wild berries, dried rose, tobacco leaf, spice, balanced oak, savory undertones. Youthful energy and drive.

Evolution: Gains complex notes of leather, truffle, herbal tea, dried flowers. Tannins soften, flavors integrate and lengthen.

At peak: Superb balance of fruit depth, earthy complexity, and supple structure with tertiary notes emerging from 2027 onward.

Structure

Acidity

Vivid and refreshing, typical of Sangiovese from Montalcino

Tannins

Firm, fine-grained, and well-integrated

Alcohol

Medium to full (14-14.5%)

Aging potential

Excellent; 15-20 years in optimal conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2034

Optimal window

2024 to 2040

Current status

Entering early optimal drinking phase but built for mid- to long-term cellaring.

Current condition

Structured, vibrant tannins with fresh acidity; can be enjoyed now with decanting, but further improvement expected.

2018 is a classic vintage combining freshness with ripeness; early approachability yet significant depth for long-term aging, with highest aromatic and textural complexity expected in 2027–2034.

Food pairing

Tuscan bistecca, wild boar ragu, aged Pecorino, roast lamb, mushroom risotto.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has firm tannins and is medium-bodied, which can benefit from aeration to enhance its aromas and soften the tannins.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Dry-farming where possible, conversion to solar energy for winery operations, manual harvesting, low-intervention winemaking, recycled packaging, habitat preservation efforts. Natural compost and minimal chemical inputs in vineyards.

Argiano is a Tuscan sustainability leader—pioneering organic viticulture (certified since 2012), eliminating herbicides, and investing in renewable energy. They utilize lightweight bottles and recyclable materials. However, the global demand for Brunello means most bottles are exported, contributing to a higher carbon footprint in non-European markets. Overall, Argiano's efforts place the estate among Italy’s most environmentally responsible premium producers, meriting a high sustainability score.