Mini-Vertical of Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino Altero

Situated 450 meters above sea level, the Brunello di Montalcino estate of Poggio Antico is one of the highest altitude producers in the region. It has been making great reds since the 1980s. James remembers tasting one of Poggio Antico’s first vintages (1985) and being impressed with the depth of fruit and sublime finish. James recently tasted it again and it was still beautiful. 

The winery makes two main Brunellos: the regular bottling and the Altero. Elegance is a benchmark for Poggio Antico. The two are aged slightly differently, the latter spending about two years in 500-liter French oak instead of Slavonian casks, which gives it more complexity. It is more of a finesse-driven Brunello as its owner Paola Gloder explains. 

Its 2007 Altero is one of the highest rated wines from the vintage by James. “It is really structured, yet elegant,” writes James in the tasting note. Its 2011 vintage also stood out for its outstanding structure. The wine was served at our Great Wines of Italy USA event last week. Hope you enjoyed it.

Here are the five Alteros tasted by James from the 2007 to 2011 vintages, arranged by score. Click on wine names for tasting notes and scores; make sure you have subscribed to our website to check out everything.

You can also watch James’ video interview with owner Paola below to understand how they managed to produce such a superb Brunello. 

Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino Altero 2007 

Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino Altero 2010 

Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino Altero 2011 

Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino Altero 2008 

Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino Altero 2009