Poggio alle Mura

Brunello di Montalcino

In the heart of Tuscany, where rolling vineyards meet centuries-old castles, Aleks and Kasper found themselves at Castello di Banfi. Invited by our esteemed wine supplier, Oeneforos, they embarked on a journey through the region’s most revered terroirs.

Amongst the variety of vintages they enjoyed, one stood out: Poggio alle Mura Brunello di Montalcino. Filming the latest episode of The Amphora here, they explored the exquisite world of Brunello wine, touched on the history of Castello di Banfi, and, of course, enjoyed a bottle on camera.

The Crown Jewel of Castello Banfi

Poggio alle Mura Brunello di Montalcino is the crown jewel of Castello Banfi, a family estate established in 1978 and internationally acclaimed for its dedication to producing premium wines.

The Poggio alle Mura vineyard, which lends its name to this exceptional Brunello, is located adjacent to the medieval Castello Banfi. Benefiting from diverse microclimates and soil compositions, the vineyard plays a crucial role in shaping the wine’s unique identity.

Crafted exclusively from 100% Sangiovese grapes, the selected clones result from extensive research and meticulous clonal selection, ensuring only the finest fruit is used.

The wine embodies Castello Banfi’s commitment to excellence through sustainable farming, low-yield harvests, and precise vineyard management. These practices maintain soil health, promote biodiversity, and emphasise quality over quantity.

The result? A wine that captures the very essence of its terroir.

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Vinification Process

At Castello Banfi, the vinification process begins with temperature-controlled fermentation in hybrid French oak and stainless-steel tanks, known as "Horizon" tanks. This method allows for precise temperature regulation and optimal extraction of flavours. The wine then undergoes ageing for approximately two years in a combination of French oak casks and barriques, enhancing its complexity and ageing potential. The result is a deeply expressive Brunello, built to age gracefully for decades.

The Sip: A Symphony of Senses

Poggio alle Mura Brunello di Montalcino is a masterclass in balance. The wine exhibits a deep ruby-red colour, indicative of its concentration and richness.

On the nose, ripe plum, blackberry, and cherry intertwine with notes of coffee, pipe tobacco, and warm spices.

On the palate, the tannins and vibrant acidity create a structured yet elegant mouthfeel, with flavours of dark fruit, balsamic, and tobacco weaving together seamlessly.

The wine lingers long after each sip, a testament to its craftsmanship.

What is a Brunello wine?

Brunello di Montalcino is one of Italy’s most prestigious wines, revered for its depth, complexity, and aging potential. Made from Sangiovese grapes grown exclusively in the Montalcino region, Brunello is aged for a minimum of four years—two of which must be in oak. This lengthy maturation process contributes to its robust structure, refined tannins, and intricate layers of flavour.

A great Brunello, like Poggio alle Mura, evolves beautifully over time, rewarding patience with increasingly nuanced aromas and textures.

Novél Recommendations:

Its versatility makes it an ideal companion to indulgent meals. While we offer smaller plates at Novél, that doesn’t mean they lack indulgence—they’re designed to be shared, savoured, and enjoyed over conversations with the people who matter most.

Lamb Rack: Grilled or roasted lamb complements the wine’s robust character.

Cacio e Pepe: Hard cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano enhance the wine’s savoury depth.

Mushroom Risotto: Earthy mushroom dishes beautifully align with the wine’s acidity and tannic structure.

Critical Acclaim

With consistent acclaim from critics—95 points from James Suckling, 93 from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, and 94 from Gardini Notes—Poggio alle Mura is a wine that commands attention.

The Soul of Tuscany, bottled

As Aleks and Kasper wandered the vineyards of Castello Banfi, sipping Poggio alle Mura in the golden light of Tuscany, one thing became clear—this wine is a testament to the winery's dedication to quality and tradition. Its intricate flavour profile, esteemed accolades, and ageing potential make it a prized selection for connoisseurs and collectors alike. And now, through The Amphora, we invite you to experience it too.

This episode is all about the journey to Tuscany — the beautiful landscapes, the rich heritage, and the incredible opportunity of tasting Brunello in its birthplace.

This Brunello di Montalcino carries the soul of Tuscany, waiting to be poured.

Have a sip