San Polo

Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2004

Wine Description

San Polo Brunello, made from 100% Sangiovese Grosso, is produced from estate vines in the Montalcino appellation which follow the strict, low yields mandated by the local Consorzio.  Blessed with vines that enjoy a southeastern exposure in a naturally occurring amphitheatre, San Polo is able to employ organic and biodynamic methods of viticulture that keep these wines pure.  This is a wine that truly reflects its pedigree and meticulous treatment in both the vineyard and cellar.

Tasting Notes

Intense ruby red in color, with garnet hues, San Polo Brunello is full-bodied and warm on the palate.  It offers typical aromas of violets and small red fruits, followed by subtle notes of coffee. The finish is long, with round and refined tannins surrounding the juicy texture. It is an excellent accompaniment to roasted meats, wild fowl, grilled filet mignon and steaks.

Vineyard Characteristics

Production area/name of vineyard: The Podernovi vineyard
Size of vineyard (acres): 20
Soil composition: Clay and calcium
Training method: Spurred cordon
Elevation (feet): 1,485
Vines/acre: 2,800
Yield/acre (tons): 2.2
Exposure: Southern/southeastern
Year vineyard planted: 1990-1995
Agronomist/Vineyard manager: Nicola Biasi

Winemaking & Aging

Varietal composition: 100% Sangiovese Grosso
Harvest time: October
Winemaking consultant: Carlo Ferrini
First vintage of this wine: 1997
Number bottles produced of this wine: 37,000
Fermentation
Fermentation container: Stainless steel tanks
Length of alcoholic fermentation (days): 8
Fermentation temperature (°F): 86
Maceration technique: Pumpovers
Length of maceration (days): 18
Malolactic fermentation: Yes
Aging
Aging container: Casks and cement vats
Size of aging container: 500L
Age of aging container: New-2 years old
Cooperage: French oak
Length of aging before bottling: 4 years
Length of bottle aging: 4 months
Analytical Data
Alcohol: 14.4%
pH level: 3.5
Residual sugar (grams/liter): 1.4
Acidity (grams/liter): 5.6
Dry extract (grams/liter): 30.5

Reviews

Decanter - October, 2009
Decanter World Wine Awards: The Results
“Sweet fruit, elegant balance and very inviting ripeness.”
Bronze Award


Decanter - August 2009
Brunello 2004: the results
“Good grippy tannins and perfume. Impressive. Good acidity and core.”
3 Stars - Recommended


Wine Advocate - Issue #183/ June 30, 2009
2004 Brunello di Montalcino: A Vintage Full of Surprises
"...possesses gorgeous density and richness in its dark fruit, sweet toasted oak, minerals, licorice and spices. This is an especially generous, Brunello that shows terrific energy and balance in a soft, approachable style.”
92 points


Wine Spectator - April 30, 2009

“Shows blackberries and minerals on the nose. Full-bodied, with silky and refined tannins and a solid core of fruit.”
93 points