Brunello di Montalcino was Italy`s first wine to be accorded D.O.C.G. status, a testament to its aristocracy, balance and fabulous proclivity for aging. Under the direction of Banfi`s master winemakers, our Sangiovese grapes are transformed into a remarkable world-class wine, perhaps the most respected red of Italy. Aged for a total of up to four years, including a minimum of two years in oak barrels, Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino is a wine of robust character. It possesses a rich garnet color, and a depth, complexity and opulence that is softened by an elegant, lingering aftertaste. Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino`s regal qualities are best exhibited with game, red meats, roasts, hearty stews and rich powerful cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano.

Tasting notes

A tremendously deep and intense color which is quite unheard of for a Sangiovese.  A full bouquet of red fruits, plums, cherries and ripe blackberries is well balanced with hints of vanilla from the tannins. The wine opens on the palate with pleasant notes of licorice, tobacco and black olives. The tannins are thick and silky, extremely rich but not overpowering. The wine is full bodied and well structured, with excellent fruit concentration and length. A great wine that should only improve with age.

Review

Castello Banfi Brunello #3 on Wine Spectator`s "To 12/31/2002 Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino 1997 ranked #3 on Wine Spectator`s "Top 100 Wines of the Year" in the December 31, 2002 - January 15, 2003 issue: Publication: Wine Spectator

Technical notes

100% Sangiovese Brunello Growing Conditions:  A textbook example of a great vintage.  The entire season presented optimal conditions for the vine, offering outstanding results for both early and later maturing varieties.  Winter rainfall supplied sufficient water reserves that benefited the Harvest Date:  From the second half of Sept Bottling Date: May 2003 Vineyard Manager Notes: The best vintage ever for Castello Banfi. Fermentation:  27-29 degrees centigrade Yes Fermentation: Length: 2 years; Barrel Origin: 50% French oak barriques, 50% Slavonian oak casks; Technical data: Brix: 23;PH: 3.5;Color Intensity: 1113; % Alchool: 13.4;Fining: Bentonite;Malic: 0.04;Volatile: 0.56;

Food pairing

Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino’s regal qualities are best exhibited with game, red meats, roasts, hearty stews and rich powerful cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano.