Castiglion Del Bosco Brunello di Montalcino 2015

This iconic, highly acclaimed dry red wine originates from Italy, within the prestigious Brunello di Montalcino DOCG appellation in southern Tuscany. Castiglion del Bosco is a massive, historic estate covering over 2,000 hectares in the northwestern quadrant of Montalcino, with winemaking heritage stretching back over 800 years. As one of the founding members of the Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino in 1967, the estate combines pristine natural forestry with organically farmed, high-elevation vineyards (ranging from 300 to 450 meters above sea level). The estate's flagship Brunello draws primarily from Capanna, a south-facing vineyard rich in galestro (rocky schistose clay) and clay loam soils, producing a traditional yet impeccably polished expression of Sangiovese.

Wine Description

In the glass, the 2015 vintage displays a deep ruby-garnet color with delicate orange-tinged amber reflections near the rim. The nose is expansive, aromatic, and deeply layered, opening with aromas of dried red cherry, wild strawberry, and dark plum, seamlessly woven with complex secondary notes of pipe tobacco, leather, crushed dry roses, forest floor, cedar, and subtle espresso grounds. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, structured, and muscular, yet remarkably balanced by a vibrant beam of Sangiovese acidity. Dense, fine-grained, firm tannins build across the palate, carrying concentrated dark fruit and savory spice through to an extraordinarily long, chalky mineral finish. Crafted from 100% Sangiovese (Sangiovese Grosso), the hand-harvested organic grapes undergo temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks, followed by approximately 24 to 36 months of aging in French oak casks (botti) and barriques, with extensive additional bottle aging before release. The alcohol by volume sits at 14.5%.

Food Pairing

The muscular tannic frame, rich fruit concentration, and savory earthiness of this 2015 Brunello make it a supreme match for robust Tuscan meats and aged hard cheeses. Excellent culinary pairings include bistecca alla Fiorentina (grilled T-bone steak), roasted rack of lamb with herbs, slow-braised wild boar (cinghiale) ragù over pappardelle, roasted venison loin, and braised beef short ribs. For cheese pairings, opt for mature Pecorino Toscano, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or sharp aged Gouda.

Vintage Quality

The 2015 vintage in Montalcino is widely celebrated as a historic, benchmark 5-star vintage for the appellation. A ideal growing season featuring a warm, sunny summer complemented by cool nights allowed Sangiovese to achieve complete phenolic maturity while maintaining brilliant natural acidity and structural balance. The 2015 Castiglion del Bosco Brunello di Montalcino is currently entering its prime drinking window after decanting, showcasing magnificent harmony and power, while holding the concentration and structure to age gracefully in proper cellars for 15 to 20+ years.

Brunello di Montalcino 2015 shows an intense ruby red colour with garnet reflections, the classic Brunello aromas are clear and bursting, including notes of undergrowth, small red berries and hints of violet. On the palate it develops in an infinite progression, with velvety tannins, it is characterized by excellent persistence and an elegant finish.

97 Points - James Suckling

Wonderful aromas of flowers, plums, terracotta and white pepper. Intense, yet ever so subtle. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a long and intense finish. Shows excellent length.

94 Points - Vinous

Good deep red. Complex aromas of redcurrant, raspberry, graphite, mocha, and mint. It is focused and sophisticated with lovely sweetness and standout purity in its flavours of red berries and candied flowers. It finishes with polished tannins and excellent length.

94 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Castiglion del Bosco is the Montalcino estate owned by Massimo Ferragamo of the Ferragamo shoe and fashion dynasty. This pretty wine shows precision and focus with a rich, fruit-forward style. The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino is a shapely Tuscan red with softness and velvety intensity to pair with a winter meat dish by an open fireplace. The wine glides smoothly over the palate, imparting aromas of black cherry, dried blackberry, plum, toasted spice and crushed flower. This harvest, which came about a week earlier than expected, resulting in a measured and carefully balanced Sangiovese from a generous vintage.