One of Montalcino's most prestigious Brunello producers, Altesino, has been sold for an estimated €20m (US$21m).
The venerable 58ha estate has been acquired by the Angelini Group, headed by Elisabetta Angelini Gnudi. Angelini is not a newcomer to the Italian wine scene. In 1999, she purchased Caparzo, the Brunello-producing property which borders Altesino. She also owns Borgo Scopeto, a prominent 36ha Chianti Classico property, as well as Rivo delle Barbe in the Maremma producing area.
According to the property’s manager Claudio Basla, the recent sale is great news for the winery. He told decanter.com, the new owner has a lot of experience in wine, as well as passion for the industry.
‘While Altesino is already one of the most important estates in Montalcino, she plans on making much-needed investments in both the cellar as well as the vineyards. Her goal is to make Altesino the top estate in Montalcino. Everyone involved is extremely happy with the sale.’ Basla added there would not be any fundamental changes to the estate’s overall operation.
Altesino – whose single vineyard Brunello, Montosoli, is one of Italy’s most sought-after wines – was purchased from the Consonno family who had acquired the estate in 1970. After the death last year of the owner, the winery was run by his son, who decided to sell.
According to the Consorzio di Brunello, it is fitting that Angelini bought the estate. Maurizio Bottarelli, spokesperson for the Consorzio says, ‘Signora Angelini has done a wonderful job with Caparzo. In fact, in the early 1970s, Altesino and Caparzo were one property which was later divided. It seems right that they are now owned by the same person.’
Written by Kerin O’Keefe13 January 2003
