Brunello Di Montalcino DOCG 1980 - Castello Banfi

A Reference Brunello Di Montalcino 1980: Villa Banfi

Brunello di Montalcino DOCG is an elite Tuscan appellation, producing 100% Sangiovese Grosso red wines renowned for their power and aging potential. Castello Banfi (Villa Banfi) is a leading Montalcino estate, combining innovation with respect for Tuscan winemaking traditions.

1980 Vintage: Producer's Tasting Notes

According to Castello Banfi's own tasting notes for the 1980 vintage:

"A rich and elegant Brunello, both in structure and aromatic expression. Brilliant ruby red with garnet highlights. On the nose, the aroma is soft and fruity, with notes of fresh red berries standing out, blending perfectly with more complex notes of licorice and pipe tobacco. The structure is powerful, and the palate is pleasantly enveloped by a consistent tannic texture, well balanced by a pleasing acidity. Extremely persistent with excellent aging potential."

- Castello Banfi

This description perfectly illustrates the maturity and complexity achieved by this wine after more than forty years.

Technical Details of the Cuvée:

• Grape variety: Sangiovese Grosso (100%).
• Appellation: Brunello Di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany (Italy).
• Aging : 3.5 years in 50 hl and 80 hl Slavonian oak barrels
• Potential: Excellent aging potential, currently at its peak.

Collection Conditions: Exceptional Condition

The condition of this bottle is remarkable for a 44-year-old Italian wine:

• Level: Excellent.
• Label: Slightly worn, consistent with the age of the bottle, but perfectly legible.
• Capsule: Intact.
• Overall condition: Excellent state of preservation, a guarantee for tasting.

Food & Wine Pairings and Suggestions

Serve at 18°C. This 1980 Brunello di Montalcino is ideal to accompany:

• Grilled or roasted red meats.
• Fur-bearing game (wild boar, hare, roe deer).
• Rich, flavorful slow-cooked dishes.
• Mature cheeses with character (Pecorino Toscano, Parmigiano Reggiano).
• A moment of meditation and contemplative tasting.

Exceptional provenance: These bottles come from the cellar of a renowned Swiss wine enthusiast and collector. We acquired the entire collection, comprising over 200 bottles of wine, primarily French and Italian. All the bottles were stored, either en primeur or shortly after their release, in a natural cellar located beneath a 16th-century convent. The cellar is humid, which explains the significant wear on some of the labels. Overall, the fill levels are excellent or perfect, and even the most fragile bottles have been stored in complete darkness for over 30 years!