The Importance of Cellaring Current Release Vintages of Brunello

Brunello di Montalcino is a wine that epitomizes the essence of Italian viticulture, offering an unparalleled depth of flavor, complexity, and longevity. While enjoying a bottle of Brunello upon release can be tempting, those with the patience to cellar this majestic wine will be richly rewarded. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of cellaring current release vintages of Brunello and how this practice will benefit the wine as it ages.

Why Cellaring Brunello Matters

Brunello di Montalcino is made from 100% Sangiovese grapes, known for their robust tannins, high acidity, and strong structure. These characteristics make Brunello an ideal candidate for aging. Upon release, a young Brunello can be tight and reserved, with its full array of aromas and flavors yet to fully develop. By allowing the wine to age in a properly controlled environment, these components can harmonize, resulting in a more complex and satisfying drinking experience.

The Benefits of Aging Brunello

1. Enhanced Complexity and Depth: As Brunello ages, the wine's primary fruit flavors of cherry and plum evolve into more nuanced notes of dried fruit, tobacco, leather, and earth. This transformation adds layers of complexity that make aged Brunello a delight to savor.

2. Softening of Tannins: The tannins in a young Brunello can be quite assertive, contributing to a dry, astringent mouthfeel. Over time, these tannins soften, leading to a smoother, more velvety texture that enhances the wine's overall balance.

3. Development of Aromas: Aging allows the bouquet of Brunello to evolve from youthful, fresh aromas into a more mature and refined fragrance. Expect to find notes of dried roses, truffle, forest floor, and spice, which add to the wine's allure.

4. Increased Value: For those who view wine as an investment, cellaring Brunello can also be financially rewarding. A well-aged Brunello often appreciates in value, particularly from renowned vintages, making it a prized addition to any collection.

Best Practices for Cellaring Brunello

To maximize the benefits of aging, it’s essential to store Brunello in optimal conditions:

• Temperature: Maintain a consistent temperature between 55°F and 60°F. Fluctuations in temperature can damage the wine and hinder its aging process.

• Humidity: A relative humidity of around 70% is ideal to prevent the cork from drying out, which could lead to oxidation.

• Light: Store Brunello in a dark environment, as UV light can prematurely age the wine and degrade its quality.

• Position: Store bottles horizontally to keep the cork moist and airtight.

How Long Should You Cellar Brunello?

The aging potential of Brunello varies depending on the vintage and producer, but generally, it can age gracefully for 10 to 30 years. Some exceptional vintages can even last longer. It’s advisable to monitor the wine’s development periodically, tasting a bottle every few years to gauge its progression.

Conclusion

Cellaring current release vintages of Brunello di Montalcino is a practice that pays off in spades. The transformation that occurs as the wine matures is nothing short of remarkable, elevating an already exceptional wine to new heights. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or a collector, investing in the aging of Brunello is a decision you won't regret.

At Arthur Cantina Wine & Liquor, we offer a curated selection of Brunello di Montalcino, perfect for cellaring or immediate enjoyment. Visit our store or browse our online collection to find the perfect bottle to start your cellaring journey.