Frescobaldi Ripe Al Convento Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2018

Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Ripe al Convento Brunello di Montalcino Riserva originates from Italy, within the prestigious Tuscany region and the world-renowned Brunello di Montalcino DOCG subregion. Owned by the historic Frescobaldi family, the CastelGiocondo estate dominates the southwest slopes of Montalcino. The operational philosophy behind this flagship Riserva revolves around exalting the ultimate expression of a single, highly privileged vineyard plot—"Ripe al Convento"—perched at an elevation of 450 meters on galestro and schistose soils. By harvesting only the finest Sangiovese fruit from these sun-drenched, well-ventilated heights, the estate crafts a classic Tuscan icon defined by longevity, power, and precise regional identity.

Wine Description

This red wine presents a brilliant ruby red appearance in the glass, holding its deep intensity right to the rim. It possesses a full-bodied, dense, and structured body framed by a mouthfilling, silky, and polished texture. The sensory profile is rich, complex, and evolving, opening with an expressive bouquet of ripe cherries, wild raspberries, and pomegranate, interwoven with floral rose petal notes and an intricate kaleidoscope of tertiary aromas, including graphite, bitter cocoa, cigar box, and dried autumn leaves. On the potent yet well-balanced palate, it delivers a deep stream of dark stone fruit, plums, and sweet spices, held together by a dense, fine-grained, and chalky tannic backbone alongside a refreshing natural acidity. The finish is remarkably long, resonant, and persistent, leaving a lingering impression of wild herbs, mineral graphite, and subtle leather notes.

• Varietal Composition: 100% Sangiovese (Sangiovese Grosso).

• Stylistic Notes: Celebrated for its regal composure and tertiary depth, the grapes undergo rigorous hand selection in the vineyard and on cellar sorting tables. Fermentation in stainless steel with controlled pumping over is followed by extensive aging in oak casks. In accordance with Riserva requirements, the wine matures for over five years prior to commercial release, including dedicated refinement in bottle.

• ABV: 15.0%.

• Organic Status: While the estate practices precision viticulture to maintain soil health across its high-altitude vineyards, this commercial bottling is not certified organic.

Food Pairing

The dense tannic architecture, elevated alcohol warmth, and complex savory profile of this Brunello Riserva make it a stellar match for rich, slow-cooked gastronomy.

• Meats: Pairs beautifully with roasted red meats, grilled Florentine T-bone steak (Bistecca alla Fiorentina), or braised beef short ribs.

• Game & Ragoûts: Suggested pairings include traditional Tuscan wild boar ragù over pappardelle, braised venison, or roasted pheasant.

• Cheese: Matches gracefully with structured platters of mature, hard cheeses, particularly aged Pecorino Toscano or Parmigiano-Reggiano.