TENTUTA SAN GIORGIO, 'UGOLFORTE' BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 

 

TUSCANY, ITALY 2017

 

 

If you love the exceptional wines of Poggio di Sotto (and who doesn't?), then it’s time to make the acquaintance of that world-class producer's wallet-friendly cousin, San Giorgio.

As part of the Collemassari Group of estates, San Giorgio's vines are managed and vinified by the same renowned winemaking team that is behind that Tuscan icon, as well as another star estate in the region, Grattamacco.

Pedigree, terroir, expert craftsmanship — and at a fraction of the cost of a bottle from one of the world's great wineries?

Sign us up every time.

We're able to offer this 2017 vintage for a best price of just under $50 — a phenomenal deal, especially if you love a good Brunello. And when you consider the fact that recent vintages from Poggio di Sotto are going for $200 or more, it makes this a downright steal!

Vinous has yet to weigh in with a rating, but it awarded 95 points to the 2016 San Giorgio Ugolforte Brunello, and we feel certain, from our recent tastings, that the 2017 is going to garner similar praise.

Situated in Castelnuovo dell’Abate, in southeastern Montalcino, San Giorgio occupies an enviable position for a winery, overlooking the Orcia valley from a mountainous perch 400 meters above sea level. (In the distance, the 12th century Benedictine abbey of St. Antimo sits in stately repose.) High elevations and rocky soil, as we know, are essential components for producing elegant wines that can age gracefully. Add to this a dry climate, with strong contrasts in temperatures from day to night to stress the grapes even more, and you have conditions as optimal as any in the Mediterranean.

San Giorgio employs Cordon Spur pruning, which results in a very low yield per hectare — another vital component to the production of high-quality wine — and has recently also moved to all-organic farming.
This focus on the land and on the distinctive sense of place it imparts can be unusual for wines in this price range, and part of the reason we are such fans of this winery.

But only part of.

The '17 Ugolforte is 100% Sangiovese, and in our recent tasting it exhibited all the richness and vibrancy we love in a Brunello. The nose is alive with hints of wild strawberry, cedar, mint leaf, and just a touch of licorice. On the palate, we were treated to an abundance of dark fruit, a soft, velvety texture, and soft, ripe tannins. The finish was long, and retained its savoriness to the very end.

It's really nice to find a wine that you can absolutely drink right away, and that will be great alone or with food, but that also can be cellared for a few years. This one has the potential, we feel, to age well for the next 3-5 years.

We're able to offer this great deal for the next week only, so don't delay!

 

 

*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Spring/Summer 2022. With the supply chain issues that we are seeing globally, there may be some unforeseen delays which could affect the ETA. 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. Offer not valid in MI, NY or TN. This offer is for ONE WEEK, or until sold out, and will expire on Thursday, March 3, 2022.