Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Riserva 2018 Fattoria La Lecciaia

What kind of wine it is

Brunello di Montalcino Riserva by Fattoria La Lecciaia is a Tuscan red wine made exclusively from Sangiovese grapes grown in the renowned Montalcino area. It presents a structured and complex style, featuring a defined tannic texture, great balance, and strong aging potential. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled steel tanks, while the maturation occurs in wood and bottle to impart remarkable aromatic intensity. On the palate, it combines depth and a persistent finish, making this Brunello di Montalcino a faithful example of the local winemaking tradition. A rich, enveloping red wine that invites exploration of its origins, production techniques, and food pairings.

Where it comes from

This wine originates in Tuscany, on the hills surrounding the town of Montalcino, an area particularly suited to Sangiovese cultivation. The vineyards are located at an altitude between 350 and 400 meters above sea level, an ideal condition that encourages gradual ripening and preserves the grapes’ aromatic profile. The medium-textured soils, enriched by sands and clay deposits, support the wine's body and continuity on the palate. The hilly landscape helps create a robust expression, allowing the development of elegant tannins that harmoniously integrate during long aging.

How it is produced

Sangiovese grapes are carefully harvested and undergo fermentation in steel at controlled temperature. The maceration on the skins lasts about fifteen to twenty days, with frequent pump-overs—a key technique for progressive extraction of aromatic compounds, color, and tannic structure. After fermentation, the wine is aged for at least forty-eight months in Slavonian oak barrels, complemented by partial maturation in barriques. This is followed by essential bottle aging of at least six months, a step crucial for the stability and harmony of the overall taste profile.

Tasting notes

In the glass, the wine shows an intense ruby red color with garnet reflections, clear signs of evolution aligned with long maturation. The bouquet is broad and complex, with evident hints of ripe wild berries, sweet spices, and fascinating tertiary nuances reminiscent of leather and tobacco. On the palate, it is full-bodied and enveloping, well-supported by integrated tannins that define the structure without making it austere. The aromatic progression leads to a long and balanced finish, where spicy and fruity components stand out distinctly.

Food pairings

This solidly structured wine pairs extremely well with grilled red meats and boldly flavored dishes. It accompanies game stews beautifully, where its impressive aromatic complexity balances the dish’s character. It is also highly recommended with aged cheeses, which bring out its persistence and pleasant dry finish. Regionally, it pairs perfectly with classic Tuscan dishes, making it ideal for accompanying slow-cooked foods that require a deep red wine.

When to serve it

This is the ideal choice when you want a red wine that can stand up to lunches or dinners where rich dishes are featured. Its extended aging in wood and subsequent bottle maturation make it suitable for immediate enjoyment, but it also has the potential for further evolution, developing pronounced tertiary notes over time. Its qualities shine during formal occasions, especially alongside structured dishes. Allowing it to breathe properly before serving will highlight its complex aromatic range, ensuring a continuous sip and a harmonious tasting experience.