As the release season for Brunello di Montalcino 2020 approaches, investors and collectors alike are asking one key question: how will this vintage stand out?
The coming months will see a wave of 2020 Brunello wines hitting the market, and while Montalcino rarely disappoints, this particular vintage offers an intriguing mix of attributes. Whether you're drawn to wines with long-term aging potential or those that can be enjoyed sooner rather than later. From discussions with leading producers, there's a general consensus, the 2020 vintage has delivered wines with impressive structure, freshness, and balance.
A Strong Start for 2020
Stefano Bambagioni of Fossacolle, based in Tavernelle in Montalcino’s southwest, sees 2020 as a standout year. He notes, “We experienced some light frosts early on, which naturally reduced yields and increased concentration. The rest of the season was relatively stable, with moderate rainfall ensuring a steady growing cycle. The harvest took place from the 25th - 27th September, and we had beautifully healthy fruit with excellent acidity.”
The winemaking approach at Fossacolle included extended maceration to extract depth and complexity. Aging in large oak casks over two years has preserved freshness and elegance, while a final refinement in concrete has helped maintain purity, as the wine remains unfiltered.
Weather Patterns and Winemaking in 2020
Alessandro Bindocci, winemaker at Il Poggione, one of Montalcino’s most storied estates—offers further insight. Located in Sant’Angelo in Colle in the southern part of the region, Il Poggione saw favorable conditions throughout the growing season. “The winter of 2019/2020 provided sufficient rainfall to build strong water reserves in the soil, which proved crucial as temperatures began to rise in April,” Bindocci explains. May was warm, ensuring a healthy flowering period, while June’s rain helped develop a strong canopy and good berry formation. July remained dry but with excellent day-night temperature variation, allowing the fruit to develop complexity without excessive ripeness. A well-timed rain event in mid-August helped reset the vines before harvest began on the 18th September.
How 2020 Compares to Recent Vintages
While warm conditions marked the vintage, the wines have retained notable acidity and elegance, avoiding the excess weight that sometimes accompanies hotter years. Bindocci describes 2020 as a “classic Brunello year”, fresh, structured, and refined, albeit with slightly less density than powerhouse vintages like 2015. Rather than making direct comparisons, Bindocci places 2020 somewhere between 2015 and 2016 in terms of style. “It shares some warmth with 2015, but the aromatics and restraint remind me of how 2016 showed upon release,” he observes.
Investment Outlook
For investors, 2020 offers an exciting opportunity. The combination of healthy yields, balanced conditions, and strong producer confidence suggests this will be a vintage with broad appeal. Whether cellared for future appreciation or enjoyed in its youth, Brunello 2020 is shaping up to be a compelling addition to any fine wine portfolio.
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