Viniou Reviews
Val di Suga’s 2016 Brunello di Montalcino is crafted exclusively from Sangiovese grapes, the noble varietal that forms the backbone of the region's most revered reds. The 2016 vintage is widely acknowledged as exceptional, blessed with an ideal growing season that allowed for optimal ripening and remarkable balance. Val di Suga is known for meticulous vineyard management and a commitment to expressing the unique terroirs of Montalcino. Ageing takes place in large Slavonian oak casks and smaller French barrels, a method that endows the wine with supple tannins and harmonious integration of fruit and wood. In the glass, this Brunello presents intense aromas of cherry, dried rose, balsamic notes and subtle hints of tobacco and spice, while the palate offers rich fruit, impressive depth, and a fine, persistent finish.
The wine hails from Montalcino, a hilltop town in southern Tuscany, one of Italy’s most storied wine regions. Here, the Mediterranean climate provides warm, sunny days and cool nights, allowing Sangiovese to develop both ripe fruit flavours and lively acidity. The soils are varied, with galestro (a schistous clay) and limestone providing excellent drainage and mineral complexity. Brunello di Montalcino was granted DOCG status in 1980, yet its winemaking tradition dates back centuries, with particular acclaim from the late 19th century onwards.
Brunello di Montalcino’s robust structure and aromatic complexity make it a versatile companion for a range of dishes. Classic Tuscan cuisine showcases ideal pairings: think bistecca alla fiorentina, wild boar ragù, or roasted lamb with herbs. Porcini mushrooms, aged pecorino, and truffle-based dishes also harmonise beautifully with the wine’s earthy undertones. For a special occasion, savour it alongside slow-cooked beef or venison.
For optimal enjoyment, decant for at least an hour to allow the wine to open up. Serve at 16-18°C to highlight the vibrant fruit, savoury depth, and refined tannins that typify both the vintage and the estate's style.
