Biondi-Santi, a historic Tuscan winery renowned for its Brunello di Montalcino, recently showcased its evolution through a tasting event featuring the 2023 Rosso di Montalcino, the 2020 Brunello di Montalcino, and various Riservas from iconic years. Despite the absence of viticulture and winemaking director Federico Radi due to a virus, the event held at Hunan in London was filled with enthusiasm for the estate’s wines.
Biondi-Santi’s legacy traces back to its founding at Il Greppo, where Brunello was born, with its modern identity shaped largely by Franco Biondi Santi. Franco’s work led to the creation of the BBS11 clone, a genetic cornerstone for quality Brunello, significantly influencing the vineyard’s future. Biondi-Santi today continues a philosophy of maintaining the purity and longevity of its Sangiovese, with meticulous attention to detail in both viticulture and winemaking.
The 150-hectare estate has 30 hectares under vine, split into four microzones. Each of these areas — Tenuta Greppo, I Pieri, Scarnacuoia, and Pievecchia — contributes unique elements to Biondi-Santi’s wine portfolio. The current stewardship, having shifted in 2016 with Christopher Descours acquiring a majority stake, emphasizes "evolution, not revolution." Under the guidance of CEO Giampiero Bertolini and Federico Radi, the estate has embraced a strategy focused on precision viticulture.
Significant advancements include a parcelization project led by Chilean expert Pedro Parra, employing detailed soil mapping to optimize site-specific farming practices. The estate has also invested in understanding the climate challenges posed by global warming, taking proactive measures to mitigate soil impacts and improve vine health.
The winery’s current offerings reflect this evolution. The 2023 Rosso di Montalcino highlights a fresh, cherry-driven profile, a result of rigorous selection amidst challenging weather. Meanwhile, the 2020 Brunello showcases purity and balance, with elegance and finesse. Riservas, such as the 2019 and 2013, display remarkable structure and complexity, affirming Biondi-Santi’s place at the forefront of quality Tuscan wines.
As Biondi-Santi navigates the complexities of modern viticulture while staying true to its traditions, it aims to preserve the essence of Brunello for future generations, illustrating that dedication to craft and patience in winemaking yield true excellence.
For more details, check out the wines here: 2020 Brunello di Montalcino and 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva.