Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino Vigna I Poggi 2019

Poggio Antico is an organic estate at the summit of Montalcino in Tuscany, working since 1976 with a precise, minimalist approach. This wine is a single-vineyard Brunello di Montalcino from the Vigna I Poggi, made entirely from Sangiovese, the grape that here ripens to its fullest expression. The high-altitude site sits on galestro, a clayey schist that drains well and forces the vines to work, concentrating the fruit and lending a savoury, mineral character. The elevation brings cool nights and good airflow, with the distant sea moderating the climate, so the fruit ripens fully while keeping the high acidity and firm tannin typical of Sangiovese. Brunello is aged at length in oak, where slow oxygen exchange through the wood softens the substantial tannins and adds spice and a layer of complexity over years rather than months. The colour is bright ruby moving to garnet. The nose shows bright cherry and plum, grilled and dried herbs, leather and an earthy undertone, with liquorice and oak behind. The palate is full bodied and structured, the tannins firm and fine, the acidity bright through a long, savoury finish. Serve at 18 degrees, decanting well ahead. Built for rich meat and game.