Frequently Asked Questions
Crafted with meticulous care in the heart of Tuscany, Il Palazzone Brunello di Montalcino boasts an exceptional expression of 100% Sangiovese grapes from select vineyard parcels. This elegant wine reveals a bouquet of cherries, plum, and dried strawberries, enriched by hints of cedar spice, wild rose, and leather. Aged for over 30 months in traditional Slavonian oak barrels, it achieves a harmonious balance of silky tannins, bright acidity, and a long, mineral-driven finish. With a radiant garnet hue and layers of complexity, it pairs beautifully with red meat dishes, truffle-based recipes, and aged cheeses. Ideal for aging, this Brunello offers a timeless indulgence, perfect for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Process & Profile
IL Palazzone Brunello di Montalcino is crafted exclusively from 100% Sangiovese grapes, a varietal celebrated for its ability to age beautifully. The estate employs a meticulous hand-harvesting process, ensuring only the finest grapes are selected. These grapes are vinified using traditional techniques, including prolonged maceration and fermentation in large oak or cement casks at controlled temperatures. After fermentation, the wine undergoes 30-40 months of aging in large Slavonian oak barrels, followed by additional aging in bottles, far exceeding DOCG regulations. The resulting wine is a harmonious blend of tradition and precision, embodying the essence of Montalcino's terroir.Tasting Notes
Il Palazzone Brunello di Montalcino showcases a striking garnet hue and a bouquet of aromas that evolve with every swirl. On the nose, expect a symphony of red cherries, plums, wild berries, violets, and subtle forest floor notes. These are complemented by hints of sweet spice, chocolate, and graphite. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with velvety tannins, a vibrant acidity, and flavors of ripe raspberries, cherries, star anise, and a touch of mocha. The finish is long, balanced, and mineral-driven, promising further complexity with age.What Makes It Special
Several factors set Il Palazzone Brunello apart:- Low-Intervention Winemaking: The estate is committed to organic and sustainable practices, respecting the natural environment.
- Unique Vineyard Sites: Grapes are sourced from parcels at different altitudes and microclimates in Montalcino, adding layers of complexity to the wine's profile.
- Aging Excellence: The use of large Slavonian oak barrels ensures a focused and refined character, avoiding overt oakiness while allowing the wine to develop structure and depth.
- Limited Production: With only around 17,000 bottles produced annually, each vintage is a rare and collectible masterpiece.
How to Enjoy
- Pairings: This Brunello pairs exquisitely with hearty dishes like Tuscan steak, wild game, aged cheeses, and rich roasts. Its acidity and tannins complement savory and umami flavors effortlessly.
- Serving Tips: To enjoy its full complexity, decant the wine at least 2 hours before serving. Serve at a temperature between 60-65°F (16-18°C).
- Cellar Potential: While already enticing, Il Palazzone Brunello di Montalcino is built to age. It can be cellared for at least 10-20 years, developing even more intricate flavors over time.
Why Choose Il Palazzone?
Il Palazzone Brunello di Montalcino is not just a wine; it's a journey through the heart of Tuscany. With its iconic elegance, robust structure, and nuanced flavors, it offers wine enthusiasts a true taste of Montalcino's winemaking heritage. Whether enjoyed now or after years of cellaring, this wine is bound to leave a lasting impression.Frequently Asked Questions
What is Il Palazzone Brunello di Montalcino made from?
Il Palazzone Brunello di Montalcino is crafted exclusively from 100% Sangiovese grapes, specifically the Sangiovese Grosso variety, which thrives in Montalcino's unique terroir. The wine undergoes meticulous vinification and aging to express the region's character and depth .
How long is Il Palazzone Brunello aged?
The wine is aged in large Slavonian oak barrels for 30 to 40 months, followed by additional bottle aging. This traditional aging process ensures complexity, structure, and balance .
What does Il Palazzone Brunello taste like?
Il Palazzone Brunello di Montalcino typically displays deep garnet hues and aromas of red fruits, chocolate, violets, and earthy herbs. It is full-bodied with smooth tannins, vibrant acidity, and a complex flavor profile, making it suitable for aging or immediate enjoyment .
What dishes pair well with Il Palazzone Brunello?
This versatile wine pairs excellently with hearty dishes such as red meats, game, truffles, mushrooms, and aged cheeses like Parmesan or Pecorino. Its acidity and tannins also complement rich international cuisines .
How long can Il Palazzone Brunello be cellared?
Thanks to its robust structure and traditional production methods, Il Palazzone Brunello can age for decades under proper storage conditions. Its longevity depends on the vintage, but it often improves in complexity and harmony with time .
When was the first vintage of Il Palazzone Brunello produced?
Il Palazzone released its first vintage of Brunello di Montalcino in 1990. Since then, the winery has consistently upheld its commitment to traditional methods and quality .
What makes Il Palazzone unique among Brunello producers?
Il Palazzone sources fruit from three distinct vineyard sites, each with unique terroir characteristics. By blending these parcels after fermentation, the winery achieves a balanced expression of Montalcino's diverse microclimates. In addition, Il Palazzone adheres to eco-friendly practices and emphasizes traditional craftsmanship .
What other wines are produced by Il Palazzone?
In addition to Brunello di Montalcino, Il Palazzone produces Brunello Riserva, Rosso del Palazzone (a multi-vintage blend), and a Super-Tuscan called Lorenzo & Isabelle. The estate also creates grappa and extra virgin olive oil .
What is the difference between Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino?
Rosso di Montalcino is a younger, fruitier, and more approachable wine, usually released sooner after production compared to Brunello. While both are made from 100% Sangiovese, Brunello requires longer aging and offers greater complexity and aging potential .
Can I visit Il Palazzone Winery?
Yes, Il Palazzone welcomes visitors by appointment. Guided tours include tastings and insights into their winemaking process. Their boutique estate also offers the chance to purchase wines, olive oil, and grappa directly on-site .
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
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