Marchesi de' Frescobaldi Brunello di Montalcino Castelgiocondo 2019

The Frescobaldi family, a renowned Tuscan wine dynasty with roots tracing back to the 13th century, has been a prominent force in Florentine politics, business, the fine arts and winemaking. Now in its 30th generation, the family continues to craft exceptional wines. 

The village of Castelgiocondo overlooks the historic estate of the Frescobaldis in Montalcino: an ancient stronghold built in 1100 to defend the road leading from the sea to Siena. The property is one of the first 4 to begin producing Brunello di Montalcino in 1800, and its historic importance is represented on the label of Castelgiocondo by the figure of a condottiere from a celebrated fresco of the Sienese artist Simone Martini. The artist’s depiction shows Guidoriccio da Fogliano, commander of the troops of Siena who in 1323 led the attack on the Montemassi castle; an historic moment that coincided with the initiation of the Frescobaldi family’s centuries-old adventure in the world of wine. 

From a grape growing perspective, CastelGiocondo is a unique place in Montalcino, where the diverse exposures and soils – marl, clay and Pliocene sand – create a Brunello with infinite nuances. With complex notes that evolve over time, there is always something new to discover, savor and remember with a bottle of CastelGiocondo Brunello. Today Frescobaldi prioritizes sustainable farming practices across their vineyards, aiming to minimize environmental impact. And while not all their wines are certified organic, several of their estates practice organic grape cultivation. 

The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino di Castelgiocondo exemplifies extraordinary elegance, showcasing a complex and intense bouquet. Initially, it reveals distinct fruity notes of blackberry, complemented by an array of woodland berries. The ever-present floral hints of violet and wild rose define this Brunello, while spicy, fresh nuances of cocoa beans, undergrowth, and nutmeg add depth. On the palate, its densely tannic structure is bolstered by a generous body, achieving a harmonious balance of flavors. The finish is remarkably long, with a subtle touch of oak.