Introduction
Is there a difference between Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino? The following in-depth study will serve precisely to let us know more about this often inaccurately treated topic.
Stylish, unique and incredibly versatile, the Brunello di Montalcino wine is a true icon of Italian wine culture, capable of shining in the firmament of wines throughout Europe and flying as far as overseas.
Brunello di Montalcino is the most famous production as far as Tuscan wine traditions are concerned, and its close cousin is often joined by it: the Rosso di Montalcino wine.
Rosso and Brunello di Montalcino are produced from the same vineyards but the process to arrive at each is different and all personal.
We start with our analysis on the Difference between Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino, checking whether any diversity related to the area of production is present.
The production area
Brunello di Montalcino, excellent with game or strong-flavored dishes, is produced from the vineyards of the municipality of Montalcino, in Siena province, slightly south of the city, about 40 kilometers away.
In this area, the production land covers more than 243.6 square kilometers, offering a huge productive square bounded by the Orcia, Asso and Ombrone rivers.
Land here enjoys a mild climate, with rainfall mostly concentrated in the spring and fall months.
The whole stage of active cluster development, therefore, enjoys the better conditions for growth in the correct manner and thus to lead to a high-quality wine, always ready to amaze.
The wine Rosso di Montalcino is a Controlled Designation of Origin wine (DOC) while Brunello is a wine with a controlled and guaranteed designation of origin (DOCG), the production of which is authorized only and exclusively in the municipality of Montalcino, south of Siena.
Therefore, all the considerations made for its big brother apply.
So, at least from this point of view, it cannot be said that there is a Difference between Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino.
Difference between Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino in terms of production process
The most important differences between Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino, mainly concern their physical and organoleptic characteristics and, more importantly, the different production process.
Essentially then, the vineyards from which Rosso di Montalcino is produced are the same as those used for Brunello, that is. grape varieties Sangiovese.
Therefore, the difference lies in the choice of grapes, where generally the best are used to produce Brunello and the second best are used to produce Rosso di Montalcino.
The other big difference between Rosso di Montalcino and Brunello lies in aging. which, by specification, obliges a Rosso cannot enter the market before January 1 of the second year following the harvest without precise obligations on the containers.
For Brunello, on the other hand, we will have to wait until January 1 of the fifth year following the harvest with a minimum aging requirement of two years in oak barrels and four months of bottle aging.
Difference between Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino in terms of physical and organoleptic characteristics
As we are going to see now, a difference between Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino more pronounced, exists relative to the physical and organoleptic characteristics of the two wines.
Let's start with Brunello.
Characteristics related to Brunello
The Brunello di Montalcino is a wine whose tannic presence is mainly due to the long aging process in oak barrels, kept in dark and cool places so as not to damage the aroma so particular to Montalcino production (discover the secrets about its tasting).
Usually, the Brunello di Montalcino wine is a clear and at the same time dark wine, from the garnet color and shiny which is quite reminiscent of the pomegranate fruit.
Its flavor is intense, laced with aromas reminiscent of woods, barrel wood and a slight hint of vanilla, to the scent of which is also added the classic flavor of jam.
The wine body, which has always been fine and harmonious, maintains its aroma over time due to its moisture-contrasting characteristics.
These same characteristics, along with the unique flavors of Brunello Montalcino, are mainly due to the several years of aging to which the wine is subjected.
Characteristics related to Rosso di Montalcino
Rosso di Montalcino, on the other hand, is. a wine designed for the young consumption, and therefore far removed from the aging years of Brunello.
Rosso di Montalcino wine is a fresh wine whose bright, intense red is reminiscent of ruby hues. Its fragrance intoxicates the mind with epiphanies of fresh fruit and nature, the significance of which is quickly combined with its dry, fresh and slightly tannic taste.
La difference between Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino, in this case, is that the Red is not aged long, but consumed young to keep alive its vitality so important.
Such an open character, by the way, makes it a particularly versatile wine, important for more daring but equally successful pairings, such as those with Tuscan cuisine or with dishes of European origin.
The Rosso and Brunello di Montalcino wines are therefore brothers., the different twins of the Italian wine universe, who manage to open a great door for Italy in Europe and around the world.
Conclusions
If you enjoyed our in-depth look at the differences between Rosso di Montalcino and Brunello, you will probably want to learn more about these wines, perhaps by being able to taste them in the comfort of your own home.
In that case, navigating within Montalcino Club, you will find many useful resources for discovering the wines of this area!
Our site is dedicated to the sale of high quality wines, selected directly in the territory of Montalcino. In particular, our project focuses on Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, one of the most prestigious wines in the world.
Thanks to our Collaborations with various companies in Montalcino, we are able to offer our customers a wide range of wines selected from the best Brunello producers.
If access the wine club section, you can discover exclusive and valuable offers.
By signing up, you will be able to receive our regular selections of Brunello di Montalcino bottles, created especially for you to learn about and appreciate this world-renowned wine.
In addition, we organize wine tours during which you can Tasting the best Brunello di Montalcino directly in their production area, a unique experience to discover the wonderful land of Montalcino, known throughout the world.
For more information, please visit our website and contact us by filling out the appropriate contact form.
