Among all the strains of Sangiovese, Brunello is widely regarded as the most dignified - a Brunello di Montalcino must contain nothing other than this exquisite grape. The wine must be aged for no less than two years in oak, followed by at least four months in the bottle. The rewards of the Brunello regulations’ strict requirements should be readily apparent in the glass.
The Castello Romitorio Brunello 2003 is a great wine from what was for everyone a challenging vintage under the burning sun. The fragrant Brunello character of dried herbs and spice shine within a harmonious palate, the red fruit flavour is rich but extremely well balanced by the herbs and spices. Already drinking very well - this wine will of course continue to improve for many years to come - though do be sure to decant many hours before drinking for the best overall experience. A magnificent food wine.
WINEMAKER’S COMMENTS Castello Romitorio’s Brunello of Montalcino stands as the cornerstone of our production. Made from only the “Brunello” strain of the Sangiovese grape, this wine is one of the most treasured of all Italian reds. A careful selection of the harvest’s bounty, strict adherence to technique, and constant checks during the aging process transform the Sangiovese grapes into one of the world’s most revered wines. Ruby red in color, this Brunello di Montalcino possesses a fruity and spicy bouquet. Its velvety texture harmonizes the rich and balanced tannins. It is completed by two years in oak, blending the wine’s qualities into a character that is at once forceful and elegant.
HARVEST A relatively mild winter punctuated with rain followed by a hot, dry spring promoted good growth in the vineyards. The summer of 2003 proved to be one of the hottest in memory, allowing the Sangiovese Grosso to mature quickly. It is in part thanks to our work in the vineyards that the 2003 vintage was so successful. In fact, with effective pruning, we were able to protect the grapes from the hot sun, maintaining sufficient acidity to support long bottle aging and pair harmoniously with a structure of ripe fruit and silky tannins.
HISTORY The respected provenance of a Brunello di Montalcino is perhaps best seen in the name of grape from which it is created: Sangiovese, from “Sangius Jovis”—the blood of Jupiter. The Sangiovese grape serves as the foundation of much of Italy’s ancient tradition in wines. Among all the strains of Sangiovese, however, Brunello is widely regarded as the most dignified, and a Brunello di Montalcino must contain nothing other than this exquisite grape. Furthermore, it must be aged for no less than two years in oak, followed by at least four months in the bottle. The rewards of the Brunello regulations’ strict requirements are readily apparent in the glass. Castello Romitorio takes pride in its part in this great tradition.
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