When Giovanni Martellozzo of Bellussi was over earlier this year, he brought a couple of his family’s wines from Belpoggio, and some in the trade would have been fortunate enough to try them and receive the full rundown at the same time. We’re now happy to say that we have received our first delivery of Belpoggio’s stunning Montalcinos, and they are ready to go. Our first shipment includes the 2018 Brunello (92 points, James Suckling, 92 points, Wine Enthusiast and 93 points in the International Wine and Spirits Comp.) and the 2021 Rosso di Montalcino (91 points, James Suckling) which is already delightfully open and ready for business.
2018 Belpoggio Brunello di Montalcino
This 100% Sangiovese was grown in the Bellaria area of Castelnuovo dell’Abate at 400m altitude. Traditional vinification with extended maceration on skins was followed by 36 months maturation in large oak casks. Intense and complex on the nose, there’s a lovely interplay between sweet and savoury aromatics. The palate carries similar complexity, with the soil-type evident in underlying minerality wrapped around a red-fruited core, complimented by chocolate notes and a decadent plumpness. Formidable structure yet balanced tannins round out with herbal/floral freshness and lasting savoury persistence.
“Super refined. Plum, citrus peel and tobacco leaf with some graphite sprinkled into the mix. Incredibly fine tannins and a lavender-like finish. Great!” International Wine and Spirits Competition
“The nose starts fruity, with fresh cherries and wild strawberries, but a leathery, spicy savoriness emerges over time. On the palate, the spice bounces around a citrus note that underscores a deeper red fruitiness, until imposing tannins put up the velvet ropes and usher in a dark chocolate richness.” 92 points, Danielle Callegari, Wine Enthusiast
“Savory and meaty with aromas of cassis, currants, oregano, wet leather and spice box. Full-bodied, with firm and chewy tannins. Nice earthy and meaty undertones. Better after 2024.” 92 points, James Suckling
2021 Belpoggio Rosso di Montalcino
Like the Brunello, this 100% Sangiovese Grosso was grown in Castelnuovo dell’Abate. The key difference is the aging, which in this case was just under 12 months in 30 hectolitre oak barrels. This subregion of Montalcino has a marked diurnal contrast during the ripening period, particularly in a dry and extended vintage like 2021. This has gifted fruit with some of the best balance in the area, partnering plumpness and concentration with ripe tannins, juicy acidity and complexity.
Lively and elegant, this is a fresher style than the Brunello. It’s rounded and silky with plenty of spicy, red-fruited flesh, hints of garrigue and a balsamic note that gives it an extraordinary drinkability. It’s drinking beautifully now (partner with smoky meaty flavours), but will also benefit from up to 5 years in the cellar.
“Medium-intensity ruby red in color with purple highlights. Beautifully consistent palate, with more pronounced acidity than Brunello di Montacino. Its aromas are reminiscent of white cherry and green notes.” 91 points, James Suckling
