2019 Podere Scopetone Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany

Sour cherries with orange peel and hints of vanilla bean. Some bark, too. Medium body, with very fine tannins and a fresh and bright finish. Lean and agile. Drink after 2026

93 points jamessuckling.com

The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens slowly in the glass, evolving with a blend of dried black cherries, spiced orange and hints of shaved cedar. It’s soft textured, nearly fleshy in feel, with a balancing core of tart wild berry fruits and brisk acidity. A gentle coating of grippy tannins lingers along with orange and inner rose notes as the 2019 finishes with medium length and youthfully tense. Drink 2025 - 2033

92 points Eric Guido vinous.com

Podere Scopetone Brunello di Montalcino is a beautifully crafted wine from Tuscany’s most prestigious appellation, reflecting the elegance, power, and tradition of Brunello. Produced by the boutique winery Podere Scopetone, this wine exemplifies the estate’s commitment to low-intervention, terroir-driven winemaking. With a small production that emphasizes quality over quantity, Podere Scopetone has become a hidden gem for enthusiasts of Brunello di Montalcino.

The Sangiovese Grosso grapes for this wine are sourced from the estate’s high-altitude vineyards, situated at around 450 meters above sea level on the northern slopes of Montalcino. The vineyard’s position provides a cooler microclimate, which helps preserve acidity and aromatic complexity while allowing for a slow and even ripening process. The soils, rich in galestro (a flaky marlstone) and clay, lend the wine its distinctive minerality and structure.

Winemaking at Podere Scopetone focuses on traditional techniques with a light modern touch. Grapes are hand-harvested and fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel tanks to maintain the purity of the fruit. The wine is aged for 36 months in large Slavonian oak casks, a classic method that enhances complexity and integrates the tannins while preserving the freshness and vibrancy of Sangiovese. Additional bottle aging ensures the wine is well-rounded and ready to drink upon release.

In the glass, Podere Scopetone Brunello di Montalcino displays a deep ruby color with garnet highlights. The nose is elegant and complex, offering aromas of ripe cherries, red plums, and violets, interwoven with notes of leather, tobacco, cedar, and a hint of spice. On the palate, it is full-bodied and structured, with firm yet refined tannins, vibrant acidity, and flavors of red berries, savory herbs, and earthy undertones. The finish is long, with a lingering minerality and subtle floral notes.

This Brunello is a versatile food partner, pairing beautifully with dishes such as roasted lamb, wild boar ragù, or aged Pecorino cheese. It is also a perfect choice for hearty pasta dishes, such as pappardelle with truffle or mushroom-based sauces. While approachable now with decanting, this wine has the structure and balance to evolve gracefully over the next 15-20 years.