Vintage preview: These new Brunello di Montalcino 2021s caught our expert’s attention

In advance of Decanter‘s full report on the new 2021 vintage of Brunello di Montalcino – coming to Decanter Premium in February – I want to provide a brief overview of what Sangiovese fans can look forward to this year – and the wines which impressed me the most.

An event held last November, the 34th edition of ‘Benvenuto Brunello’, brought together preview samples of Brunello di Montalcino 2021, Brunello Riserva 2020, and Rosso di Montalcino reds (2022 and 2023 vintages) from 123 wineries.

To some extent, the 2021 vintage of Brunello di Montalcino surprises with structured yet weightless wines. Furthermore, to the delight of those who love the typicality and character of Brunello expressed with greater immediacy and finesse, the 2021s are ready to be enjoyed now.

Brunello di Montalcino: Factbox

Brunello di Montalcino is Tuscany’s Sangiovese in purezza – while Chianti Classico and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano typically blend Sangiovese with other varieties, both local and international, Brunello’s production regulations stipulate 100% Sangiovese. The local clone of the variety is Sangiovese Grosso, aka ‘Brunello’.

Grape: 100% Sangiovese

Ageing: Minimum four years (five years for Riserva), two of which must be in wood.

Surface area: 24,000 hectares, 15% of which is under vine

Denomination: DOC since 1966; in 1980 it became one of Italy’s first DOCGs (along with Barolo and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano).

‘A symphony of fragrant aromas’

An expressive vintage, 2021 has an immediate charm. The well defined, perfectly ripe fruit, not being excessively covered by oak, opens in a symphony of fragrant aromas.

The human hand proved vital, as ever, and the attention paid to the vineyards was reflected in the wines, with a decidedly high overall level.

Overall, structures are clearly defined, tannins are firm but well integrated and, in many examples, a compact texture supports vibrant energy and freshness throughout.

Compared to the previous vintage, wines from right across the Montalcino viticultural area have shone in 2021.

Below is a small selection of wines to look out for, including some lesser-known producers as well as top names.

Alessandra’s pick of 2021 Brunellos to look out for:

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