Viniou Reviews
The Ciacci Piccolomini Aragona Brunello di Montalcino 2019 exemplifies the powerful elegance that has made this appellation renowned worldwide. Crafted exclusively from the Sangiovese Grosso grape, locally referred to as Brunello, this wine reflects its noble origins through meticulous selection and traditional vinification. The 2019 vintage enjoyed a balanced growing season, benefiting from sufficient rainfall and optimal ripening temperatures, which has resulted in wines of remarkable structure and aromatic complexity. Maturation typically extends for at least two years in large Slovenian oak casks, followed by refining in the bottle, a process that imparts layers of texture and nuance while preserving the vibrant fruit at the core.
Brunello di Montalcino hails from the rolling hills south of Siena, in the heart of Tuscany. The region’s Mediterranean climate, distinguished by warm, sunny days and cool nights, fosters slow and complete ripening, contributing to the wine’s profound depth. Soils here are varied—a mosaic of galestro (shale-clay), limestone, and marl—which endows each vineyard with a distinct character. This combination of climate and terroir, alongside a history dating back to the nineteenth century, enables Brunello di Montalcino to strike a harmonious balance between power and finesse, typifying the artistry of Tuscan winemaking.
For food pairing, the robust yet refined profile of this Brunello makes it a superb companion for classic Tuscan dishes. It shines alongside rich meats such as osso buco, bistecca alla fiorentina, or wild boar ragù over pappardelle. Mushroom risottos or aged Pecorino Toscano also complement its earthy notes and natural acidity.
To best appreciate the complexity of Ciacci Piccolomini Aragona Brunello di Montalcino 2019, it should be served at around 17-18°C. Decanting for an hour will allow the bouquet of dark cherry, leather, spice, and subtle tobacco to fully emerge. This wine has significant ageing potential but is already approachable for those seeking an expressive and authentic taste of Tuscany.
