The Tenuta Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona is located on the south-west side of the Montalcino municipality. It is a large farm that covers an area of 175 hectares, that is surrounded by vineyards, olive trees and cereal.  James recently visited owner Paolo Bianchini to discuss the 2006 and 2007 vintages. Which

The vineyards of San Polino are located just outside the town of Montalcino, in the lower area. It is a small family-run farm that takes pride in its size because it allows for a more detailed and meticulous care of the vineyards. Respecting tradition and the environment is very important

Not long ago James visited the vineyards of San Filippo in Montalcino to discuss with owner Roberto Giannelli the 2007 and 2006 vintages. During his visit James had the chance to taste 2010 from barrel. Roberto is convinced that 2010 might be one of the greatest harvests to have ever

I view the current release of 2006 Brunello di Montalcino Riservas as yet another chance to buy and drink more extraordinary Brunellos from an extraordinary vintage. For the most part, I am not sure that the riservas are all that better than the regular bottlings of 2006 Brunellos, even though

I really enjoy the Brunello di Montalcinos of the wine estate of San Filippo. They are reds that show a lovely balance of ripe fruits with ultra-fine tannins and fresh acidities. I attribute this to the slightly cooler growing region of the vineyards of San Filippo. I meet with owner

I asked Florentine vintner Lamberto Frescobaldi to come over to my house in Tuscany for a simple dinner in the kitchen of roasted chicken and salad and a discussion of the two recent great vintages for Brunello di Montalcino: 2007 and 2006. His Brunellos from his estate in Montalcino –

James visits his friend Fabio Tassi at Enoteca La Fortezza, located at the top of Montalcino. After taking a moment to see the breathtaking view from the top of La Fortezza, Fabio and James taste and discuss the legendary 2006 and 2007 vintages of Brunello di Montalcino. Watch this video

Brunello di Montalcino has never had two consecutive great vintages – but it did in 2007 and 2006, and now they are both on the market. The question is, which is better? I tasted about 160 2007 Brunello di Montalcinos 10 days ago in blind tastings in Tuscany, and I

After tasting the numerous and outstanding Brunello di Montalcino 2007 and 2006 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva, James has made a final decision. Watch this video to find out the verdict.  -JGA