Today is the day for a Brunello tasting! I have really been looking forward to this day. So, we begin our drive starting south of Siena about an hour to the Val d' Orcia (around Pienza). A very picturesque region of southern Tuscany in my opinion. It is kind of dreamy like.
Our first stop of the day is Montepulciano, a renaissance town, and is known for it's wine called Vino Nobile. It is one of the oldest wines in Italy dating back to 789. It is primarily made from the Sangiovese grape varietal.
Heading on down the road we soon stop along the side, still heading toward Pienza, to have a little picnic. It looks like someone is holding up a painting for a backdrop. Just crazy pretty. Made my little sandwich taste even better!
On to the hilltop town of Montalcino, which has been in existence since the time of the Ancient Etruscans. It is also home to the famed Brunello di Montalcino. A Brunello "little dark one", is made from 100% Sangiovese grapes. They are aged for at least 4 years with two of the years in oak barrels and then bottled at least 4 months prior to commercial release. We stumbled upon this quaint and quirky vineyard Al Paradiso di Frassino and loved it. We had a nice tasting and tour all while Mozart playing 24 hours a day throughout the entire vineyard. They believe in organic farming and the positive effects of sound waves to the vines. www.alparadisodifrassino.ilt
A good day for the Appe. 27!
wow! Brunello Montalcino is my FAVORITE Italian wine! - Juana
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