Biondi-Santi

Tuscany, Italy

Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Riserva — 2013

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  • Introduction

    • The 2013 Riserva was produced with our proprietary clone of Sangiovese Grosso called BBS 11, which was identified and selected by Biondi-Santi at Tenuta Greppo in the Seventies. For this Riserva we exclusively used grapes from the oldest vines with over 25 years of age.

  • Vineyard Profile

    • Grape Source: 100% estate vineyards
    • Vine Age: 25 years or older
  • Vintage Report

    • After a mild autumn, the winter was quite cold with generous rainfall that continued until early summer, causing a delay in the start of the vegetative cycle. From the second half of July until the end of September the weather was warm and stable with considerable day/night temperature swings which contributed to develops the grapes. The harvest started in late September — slightly delayed compared to average vintages at Tenuta Greppo.

  • Vinification

    • Aging: The 2013 Riserva was aged in Slavonian oak barrels for 3 years. It benefited from a long refinement in the bottle in the quiet and darkness of "La Storica", the bottle library at Tenuta Greppo where all the historic vintages of Biondi-Santi Riserva are scrupulously kept.
  • Technical Information

    • Varietal Composition: 100% Sangiovese Grosso (BBS11 Clone)
    • Alcohol: 13.5%
    • Optimum Drinking: Serve at 60/64˚ F. Uncork and decant wine from the bottle for 4-6 hours before serving.
  • Tasting Notes

    • The 2013 Riserva speaks of the aromas of our land. On the nose it reveals a vast and intriguing bouquet reminiscent of the forest floor in autumn, of aromatic herbs, of porcini mushrooms and of sour cherries. At a young age the character of this Riserva is pleasantly austere, yet immediately refined, showing sublime equilibrium and elegance with reserved delicacy. On the palate its structure and complexity shine through as the tasting experience moves plastically along both the vertical and the horizontal axis in a crescendo of sensations which will continue to grow in time.

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Reviews

  • Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Riserva — 2013 – Wine Spectator – 95 Points

    Tense and elegant, this red evokes strawberry, cherry, floral, iron and rosemary aromas and flavors. Harmonious in its linear profile and smooth, yet with adequate tannins for a long life ahead. The fresh finish balances fruit and balsamic elements.

  • Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Riserva — 2013 – The Wine Advocate – 98 Points

    A stunning wine from all points of view. Seamless integration and elegant complexity are what stand out, and it's worth dedicating a few extra lines to the aromatic depth that is put so beautifully on display as the wine slowly unfolds. The bouquet starts off with wild cherry, earth, wet ash, crème de cassis and pruny chocolate. With extra time, there are hints of dried tobacco leaf, sandalwood and mossy forest floor. These lead to a fine tail of dried herb, bay leaf and a touch of rusty nail...

  • Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Riserva — 2013 – James Suckling – 95 Points

    A fresh, linear 2013 with cherry, mushroom and cedar character. Lots of blue fruit as well. Medium to full-bodied with firm, polished tannins and a creamy finish.

  • Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Riserva — 2013 – Wine Enthusiast – 97 Points

    Aromas of forest berries, rose and camphor with whiffs of underbrush and new leather slowly take shape on this radiant red. Elegant to the point of being almost ethereal, it's still youthfully austere, featuring tangy cranberry, sour cherry, orange zest and star anise before a black tea finish. Tightly wound, refined tannins and bright acidity provide the framework.

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