Biondi Santi Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG

Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG is one of Italy’s most historic and collectible wines, defined by elegance, remarkable longevity, and an uncompromising connection to the traditions of Montalcino. First produced at Tenuta Greppo in 1888, the Biondi-Santi Riserva is recognized by the estate as the first Brunello di Montalcino in history. Produced only in distinguished vintages and in extremely limited quantities, it is a benchmark expression of Sangiovese and a centerpiece for serious Italian wine collections.

Process & Profile

Biondi-Santi Riserva is crafted exclusively from Sangiovese, selected from the estate’s oldest vineyards in Montalcino. The Riserva traditionally draws from vines more than 25 years old, whose naturally limited yields produce fruit with exceptional depth, structure, acidity, and aromatic concentration.

The estate’s historic vineyards are planted in clay- and limestone-rich soils at elevated sites around Tenuta Greppo. The combination of altitude, significant differences between daytime and nighttime temperatures, and slow ripening helps preserve the freshness and refined structure that distinguish the Biondi-Santi style.

Following fermentation, the wine is traditionally matured for three years in large Slavonian oak barrels. Rather than adding prominent oak flavor, these traditional casks allow the wine to develop gradually while maintaining the purity, fragrance, and savory character of Sangiovese. The Riserva then receives further bottle refinement before release.

The bouquet is deep and refined, offering layers of black cherry, sour cherry, blackberry, pomegranate, and plum, accompanied by dried rose, forest floor, porcini mushroom, licorice, and Mediterranean herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and sage. Subtle notes of tobacco, leather, balsamic spice, and earth emerge as the wine opens.

On the palate, the wine combines concentrated fruit with vibrant acidity, savory minerality, and firm yet finely shaped tannins. Its structure is powerful without feeling heavy, developing through a long, persistent finish marked by red fruit, herbs, earth, and elegant spice. With bottle age, the wine gains additional harmony, fragrance, and complexity while preserving its signature freshness.

What makes Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG extraordinary is its rarity and proven ability to mature for decades. The estate releases Riserva only selectively, and each production is extremely limited. Historic bottles are preserved in La Storica, the estate’s dedicated wine library at Tenuta Greppo, where individual vintages continue their careful refinement.

Serve slightly below room temperature in a large wine glass. Younger vintages benefit from extended decanting, while mature bottles should be opened carefully and allowed to unfold gently. Pair with bistecca alla Fiorentina, roasted lamb, braised beef, wild game, porcini mushrooms, truffle dishes, or aged Pecorino Toscano.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG?
It is an extremely limited, age-worthy Tuscan red produced from estate-grown Sangiovese at Tenuta Greppo in Montalcino. First made in 1888, Biondi-Santi describes it as the first Brunello di Montalcino in history.

What are the key specifications of Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG?
The wine is made from 100% Sangiovese, sourced from the estate’s oldest vineyards, and traditionally aged for three years in large Slavonian oak barrels. The current release is offered in limited quantities, with alcohol and final production details determined by the vintage.

What flavors characterize Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG?
The wine commonly shows black cherry, sour cherry, blackberry, pomegranate, plum, dried rose, aromatic herbs, forest floor, porcini mushroom, licorice, tobacco, and balsamic spice, supported by fresh acidity and structured tannins.

How should you enjoy Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG?
Serve it slightly below room temperature in a large glass. Decant younger vintages to help the aromas and tannins open, and pair it with roasted meats, game, mushrooms, truffles, or mature Italian cheeses.

What makes Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG special?
Its distinction comes from its historic status, selection from the estate’s oldest vines, traditional Slavonian oak maturation, extremely limited production, and extraordinary capacity to develop over many decades.