Wines Brunello di Montalcino Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino 2018 is a stellar example of the Sangiovese grape at its most expressive. Crafted exclusively from Sangiovese Grosso, locally known as Brunello, this wine hails from the esteemed hills surrounding the town of Montalcino in southern Tuscany. The 2018 vintage experienced a relatively cool and wet spring, followed by a stable summer, resulting in wines that exhibit both elegance and structure. Poggio Antico is celebrated for a meticulous approach to viticulture—grapes are hand-harvested and vinified with extended maceration to extract concentrated aromas and flavours. Traditional ageing in large Slavonian oak casks imparts subtle spice while allowing the fruit and fine tannins to shine, contributing to the wine’s complexity and notable aging potential.

The Montalcino area, nestled in Tuscany’s rolling hills, has a unique and favourable microclimate. With warm, dry summers and significant diurnal temperature swings thanks to the elevation, Sangiovese grapes thrive and ripen slowly, building depth and fragrance. The soils here are a patchwork of limestone, clay, and galestro, a crumbly marlstone that lends finesse and minerality to the wines. Brunello di Montalcino DOC, established in 1966, quickly became one of Italy’s most prestigious denominations, with a winemaking tradition rooted in the mid-19th century and consistently dedicated to quality.

Brunello is renowned for its depth and versatility at the table. This 2018 Poggio Antico will pair beautifully with classic Tuscan fare such as bistecca alla fiorentina, wild boar ragù, or aged pecorino. Rich, slow-cooked dishes—think osso buco, roast lamb, or mushroom risotto—complement the wine’s refined tannins and vibrant acidity. For a vegetarian match, try truffle tagliatelle or aubergine parmigiana.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine at least one to two hours before serving to soften its structure and release aromatic complexity. Serve at 16-18°C in large, tulip-shaped glasses to let the bouquet unfurl. This wine will continue to evolve gracefully with further cellaring, promising memorable moments for years to come.