BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO BRAMANTE RISERVA 2019

Overview

Bramante Riserva 2019 is a Brunello di Montalcino DOCG made from 100% Sangiovese sourced from a single vineyard plot at Sanlorenzo. Produced only in exceptional vintages, it reflects rigorous selection aimed at excellence and longevity. Organic vineyard management, 500 m a.s.l. elevation and south-west exposure enhance finesse, tension and a strong sense of place. The moderately clayey, stony soils contribute structure and distinct personality. This label is dedicated to Bramante Ferretti, founder of the estate and grandfather of Luciano Ciolfi.

Wine History

Created to honor the family’s roots, Bramante celebrates the origin of Sanlorenzo and a craft that blends tradition with precision. The 2019 harvest was carried out by hand on October 5–6, selecting clusters exclusively from the single plot. The project follows a patient timeline that respects Sangiovese’s natural rhythm, releasing the wine only when quality aligns with the estate’s standards. It is a statement of continuity and authenticity, reserved for the years that truly merit a Riserva.

Vineyard Philosophy

The dedicated vineyard sits at 500 meters, on clay soils rich in stones, facing south-west. Vines average 25 years of age and are farmed organically, prioritizing soil health and grape quality. The site’s airflow and careful canopy management promote slow, complete ripening. Manual harvesting ensures precision in selecting the best fruit, preserving integrity and freshness—essential features for a long-lived Brunello.

Winemaking Approach

Destemmed grapes undergo a 25-day maceration; fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel, safeguarding varietal purity and precision. Aging follows in medium-sized casks for 4 years, then at least 2 years in bottle, allowing tannins to integrate and depth to unfold without overshadowing Sangiovese’s character. Total sulfur is measured at 65 mg/l, supporting stability and longevity while respecting the wine’s identity.

Tasting Notes & Pairings

Color: deep ruby with garnet highlights.
Nose: broad profile of ripe cherry, gentle sweet spices, tobacco and subtle balsamic tones.
Palate: full-bodied with fine tannins, balanced acidity and a long, harmonious, persistent finish.
Recommended pairings: grilled steaks, game, braised dishes, aged cheeses and slow-cooked traditional recipes.

Technical Sheet

• Denomination: Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Riserva

• Vintage: 2019

• Grape Variety: 100% Sangiovese (single plot)

• Altitude/Exposure: 500 m a.s.l., south-west

• Soil: moderately clayey, rich in stones

• Average Vine Age: 25 years

• Viticulture: organic

• Harvest: October 5–6, 2019 (manual)

• Vinification: 25-day maceration; fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel

• Aging: 4 years in medium casks + at least 2 years in bottle

• Total SO₂: 65 mg/l

• Serving Temperature: 16–18 °C

• Extra Info: organic certified; produced only in exceptional vintages; dedicated to Bramante Ferretti

Sanlorenzo Winery

History of the Winery

The dream of Sanlorenzo began with a gesture of generosity: Renzo, on the night of falling stars, after making a wish, gifted his land to his nephew Bramante. Bramante gave it the name “San Lorenzo”, planted the first vineyards, and gradually expanded the estate. Management later passed to Paolo, father of Luciano and son-in-law of Bramante. In 1999, the winery came under the care of Luciano Ciolfi, who, with humility and passion for wine, transformed the destiny of the estate after years of learning the craft at other local wineries.

Territory and Vineyards

Sanlorenzo is located on the south-western slopes of Montalcino, at about 500 meters above sea level. The soils, rich in galestro and stones, are generally lean and arid, spreading across the two slopes of the hills: the forest to the north and the Val d’Arbia, while the vineyards face south-west towards the Maremma. The vineyards are divided into four main plots, all south- or west-facing depending on the natural terrain, covering a total of 5 hectares planted with Sangiovese, with vines aged between 10 and 40 years. The training system is spur-pruned cordon.

Philosophy and Viticulture

Since 2012, the estate has adopted organic cultivation, aiming to respect biodiversity and maintain soil balance. Harvesting is carried out manually in early October, selecting the best clusters. The vineyard approach focuses on respecting the land and obtaining healthy, ripe grapes that fully express the authentic character of Montalcino Sangiovese.

Winemaking

After harvest, the grapes are immediately transported to the cellar and destemmed. The berries are pressed and transferred to steel tanks for fermentation and maceration. At the end of vinification, the wine is left in tanks to allow solid residues to settle before aging. This method ensures clear, elegant wines that reflect the varietal’s characteristics and the terroir, delivering minerality, structure, and territorial identity.