Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona is a premiere wine estate located on the southwest side of the Montalcino municipality in Castelnuovo dell’Abate. It covers a vast area of 170 hectares, encircled by vineyards, olive groves, woods, grain and pasture lands, at an altitude of 790 to 1,200 feet. The history of the estate dates back to the 17th century when the Palazzo, the oldest part of the property, was built by Montalcino’s bishop, Fabivs de’ Vecchis of Sant’ Antimo Abbey.

Due to its strategic position and ideal microclimate, the Pianrosso Vineyard is the best expression of the estate. It is the source of the best grapes for the Brunello Pianrosso and Brunello Riserva Vigna di Pianrosso wines.

The 100% Sangiovese Grosso grapes selected for the production of Ciacci’s Brunello di Montalcino “Annato” are sourced from 16.5 hectares of vineyards composed of medium-grain, marl-rich soils. The altitude of the vineyards varies from 650 to 1,300 feet.

Fermentation is in temperature-controlled stainless steel and glass-lined concrete vats. The wine is aged for 24 months in 20-85 hectoliter Slavonian oak barrels, followed by a minimum of 4 months bottle aging.

The color of the wine is ruby red verging towards garnet. The bouquet is intense, fruit-forward, spicy and floral with hints of red berry fruits enriched by delicate spicy notes. The wine is warm, soft and very well balanced on the palate. It is structured with soft tannins and a long aftertaste. It is an ideal companion of roasted and stewed meat, game and mature cheese.

Introducing the exquisite 2018 Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona Brunello di Montalcino, a red wine that truly represents the essence of Italy's Tuscany region. Crafted from the Sangiovese Grosso varietal, this wine showcases the remarkable capabilities of this grape.

In the glass, this Brunello di Montalcino displays a deep, enticing red color that immediately captivates the eye. The nose offers a symphony of aromas, including forest berries, spice, hay, and a delightful hint of menthol. As the wine breathes, the fragrance evolves to reveal delicate notes of new leather, adding another layer of complexity to its bouquet.

Renowned wine expert Kerin O'Keefe describes this vintage as "stunning" and "fragrant," consistently earning high scores year after year. The 2018 Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona Brunello di Montalcino effortlessly combines elegance with a full-bodied structure. On the palate, flavors of dried cherry, blood orange, licorice, and ground clove take center stage. Refined tannins provide a firm structure, while bright acidity keeps the wine vibrant and energized. The finish is marked by a saline mineral note that adds depth and lingers long after the last sip. O'Keefe suggests that this wine will reach its peak between 2026 and 2038.

Vinous, another reputable publication, gives this Brunello di Montalcino a score of 92. They describe it as dark and brooding, taking its time to reveal a whiff of mocha before opening up with a mix of dried red fruits, cloves, and rosemary. This vintage maintains elegance and purity, with ripe red and black fruits cascading across a core of vibrant acidity. The fine-grained tannins penetrate deeply, leaving the palate buzzing with residual tension. Hints of tart wild berry and a dusting of cocoa slowly fade, creating a memorable experience.

James Suckling, a respected wine critic, awards this wine a score of 95. On the nose, he identifies roasted herbs, walnuts, olives, dried cherries, balsamic, leather, and sage. On the palate, this full-bodied wine features firm, finely-knit tannins that provide a creamy and well-integrated mouthfeel. With depth and class, it is recommended to be enjoyed after 2024.

Wine Spectator rates this wine with a score of 93, describing it as dense and brooding. Plum, cherry, earth, menthol, and tobacco flavors dominate the palate, creating a complex and harmonious profile. While it is currently on the austere side, with buried fruit and dominant tannins, it showcases excellent equilibrium and extended length. Wine Spectator suggests that this wine will reach its peak between 2026 and 2043.

Lastly, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awards this Brunello di Montalcino a score of 94. The wine is noted for its immediate intensity and complexity, offering a prelude of red and purple berry fruits that harmonize with tarry spice, campfire ash, licorice, and rusty nail. The savoy tones are beautifully balanced against the wine's elegant mid-weight finish, while the tannins seamlessly integrate into the overall structure. Despite the challenges of the vintage, the winemaking team has succeeded in crafting a remarkable wine. With a production of 80,000 bottles, this vintage is sure to impress even the most discerning wine connoisseurs.

In conclusion, the 2018 Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona Brunello di Montalcino is a testament to the winemaking prowess of Tuscany. With its fragrant aromas, vibrant flavors, and refined structure, this wine exemplifies the best that the region has to offer. Whether enjoyed now or aged for a few more years, this Brunello di Montalcino promises an exceptional experience that will leave a lasting impression.