BIONDI-SANTI
TUSCANY, ITALY 2019
WHY BUY:
There’s Brunello, and then there’s Biondi-Santi. Franco Biondi-Santi's grandfather is generally credited with inventing Brunello di Montalcino — which means, when you buy Biondi-Santi, you’re getting it from the source. And what you’re getting is a wine that’s not just the pinnacle of Brunello expression, but one of the Top 10 wines of the world. We’re proud to be able to bring you a pair of brilliant 98-point Brunellos from two great vintages, along with a deeply pleasurable 95+ point Rosso — three of the best, most rewarding wines of the Spring season, which deliver that rare combination of terroir specificity and ineffable soul that sometimes even the greatest bottles fail to achieve.
THE VINTAGES:
The Brunello 2019 vintage is widely hailed as exceptional, arguably the best of that decade, and quite possibly one of the best ever. The 2018 vintage, meanwhile, is sometimes overlooked but sneakily good, with many wines displaying an elegance and approachability. As for the 2021 Rosso: The Wine Advocate declare it an "epic vintage,” and one that has been "expertly interpreted by the Biondi-Santi winemaking team."
WHAT THEY'RE SAYING:
Jeb Dunnuck weighed in on both Brunellos, awarding 98 points to both; he hailed the Brunello 2019 for its "layered and complex” aromatics, its "elegant ... weightless feel," and "long and savory finish,” while singling out the Riserva 2018 for being “mouthwatering,” “refined,” and “beautiful." The Wine Advocate swooned over the Rosso 2021 with 95+ points, praising its "impressive complexity and finesse" and "seething energy and bright red fruit."
OUR TASTING NOTES:
The 2019 Brunello gets straight to the point — this is a Sangiovese with some serious intent. Cranberry and cherry fruit drive the core, but there's something deeper happening here, a mineral intensity that builds as the wine opens. The aromatics keep shifting: red berries one moment, then rosemary and orange peel, then black licorice. Most impressive of all, perhaps, is that it has great weight and density, but never feels heavy. Where the 2019 Brunello is all energy and evolution, the 2018 Riserva (just 9,000 bottles of which were produced) is a wine of control and poise. The color is deep red, the perfume immediate — roses and red fruits that seem to hang in the air. On the palate, it’s powerful and intense, but also nimble-footed and full of grace, and the subtle notes of citrus deliver a welcome and delightful surprise. The finish is well-tended, long and sustained but also elegant. The Rosso 2021 pulses with the kind of bright energy that makes you understand why critics called this an epic vintage. There's complexity here that belies its status as the "entry" wine.
THE STORY:
To understand the greatness of Biondi-Santi, you need only listen to Franco Biondi-Santi, whose grandfather virtually invented Brunello di Montalcino: "Nature is capable of creating great things; you just have to know how to wait.” It’s all there: the recognition of the totality of terroir, the appreciation of the balance of nature, the understanding of the need for patience. Franco might no longer be with us, but many of the methods handed down to him by his grandfather are the same today as they were then. At the same time, the 7th generation of Biondi-Santis not only honors these time-tested methods but has turned increasingly to science to protect their vines and maintain health over the years. That an icon refuses to rest on its vast reputation but continues to look to get better is not just telling; it’s thrilling.
FUN FACT:
When the Italian football team claimed the European Championship in 2021, it toasted its victory with the estate's 2013 Brunello di Montalcino. Biondi-Santi: drink of champions.
WHAT TO PAIR THEM WITH:
The 2018 Riserva is perhaps best appreciated solo, without accompaniment, the better to reflect upon its many and captivating nuances. The Brunello 2019 will prove the perfect companion for an array of pastas, light braises and stews, and aged cheeses. The Rosso 2021 shines with everything from grilled meats to pizzas to pastas to burgers.
OUR GUARANTEE:
As always, we only buy and source directly from the estate, so rest assured: your wines will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Secure these legendary bottles today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Winter 2025 (Dec. 21st - Mar. 20th, 2026). All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. The price reflected on your order form is subject to change after the order is placed in the event of a change in tariffs or taxes that are imposed by the U.S. government, or in the case of currency fluctuations of 10% or greater. Offer not valid in KS, KY, MI, MO, NE, NY, OK & TN. This offer is valid for TWO WEEKS, or until sold out, and will expire on Thursday, July 24th, 2025.