Viniou Reviews
San Polino’s 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Helichrysum is a striking example of one of Tuscany’s most respected wines. Made exclusively from Sangiovese, this cuvée is hand-harvested from organically farmed vineyards surrounding Montalcino. The Helichrysum refers both to the Mediterranean herb (commonly known as everlasting flower) abundantly found near the vines and to the wine’s aromatic profile. The 2019 vintage was marked by a balanced growing season, with moderate temperatures and timely rains, resulting in excellent fruit concentration and freshness. Vinification involves extended maceration on skins to encourage depth, with ageing in large Slavonian and French oak barrels for a minimum of two years, allowing integration of complex aromas and silky tannins.
Brunello di Montalcino sits in southern Tuscany, a region defined by rolling hills, warm days, and cooler nights. The soils here are a patchwork of galestro, limestone, and clay, providing perfect drainage and imparting mineral complexity to the wines. Montalcino itself boasts a storied history, earning acclaim for its Brunello wines in the late 19th century. The combination of microclimate and soil delivers Brunellos with structure, finesse, and remarkable longevity.
This 2019 Helichrysum is intense and elegant, with lifted notes of ripe cherry, wild herbs (evocative of the helichrysum flower), undergrowth, and a hint of balsamic. On the palate, expect purity of Sangiovese fruit melded with graphite, spice, and well-integrated oak, all balanced by firm tannins and vibrant acidity.
Such a wine calls for equally noble pairings. Classic Tuscan dishes such as bistecca alla fiorentina (chargrilled T-bone) or wild boar ragù over pappardelle are superb choices. Rich game, roast lamb with rosemary, or aged pecorino cheese will harmonise beautifully with the wine’s depth and structure.
Decant for at least two hours before serving to encourage aromatic complexity. Serve at 16-18°C to allow the wine’s nuances to reveal themselves fully. This is a wine with remarkable ageing potential, worth cellaring for years to come if you seek additional tertiary character.
