Padelletti Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany, Italy 2019

There are few crafts in life that can command the attention and livelihood of 27 generations, but the Padelletti family has been caring for land in Montalcino since 1571. Documents and recovered labels have proven their presence in Montalcino from generation to generation, and their cellars are still located beneath the family’s 16th century home. From fathers to sons and mothers to daughters, each passing generation has held on strong to tradition, in fact - as a renowned wine journalist once claimed - “there are traditionalists and there is Padelletti.” They’ve never strayed far from aging in 30-hectoliter Slavonian botti nor has the reputable elegance and freshness of their wines varied, attributed to their high lying vineyards on the north side of town. The Padelletti family has paved much of the history of this outstanding winemaking region, and have changed very little in terms of their philosophy along the way: genuine care and respect for tradition plus deep respect for the environment.

The Padelletti’s have four hectares from which they produce Brunello, exclusively. The maceration is a minimum of 20 days but can be up to 30, depending on the vintage. It is then aged for two to three years in large oak barrels. The wine is left in bottle for 6 to 12 months before being released. The result is typically one of the most classic, steadfast examples of northern Montalcino, where quality is always favored over quantity.