Though the worldwide reputation of Brunello has encouraged a certain conservatism among Montalcino estates, Altesino has always been an innovative leader. The estate pioneered the technique of aging its IGT wines in small French oak barrels, limiting the time spent in oak to enhance each wine's personality. The resulting wines were a groundbreaking improvement over those produced by traditional methods. No longer overwhelmed by wood, they were able to display the unique characteristics of the fruit, with softened tannins and perfect balance. Not content to rest on its laurels, Altesino became the first Montalcino estate to introduce the concept of ‘cru’ wines, made with a special selection of grapes from a single vineyard. Its Montosoli Brunello, named after the prestigious vineyard, was the first of these wines and is still considered among the region’s finest. In 1985, Altesino also pioneered the concept of Brunello “futures” (wine purchased before its release) with its 1985 Brunello. The commitment to innovate also led to the development of many modern wines in the estate’s portfolio, including Alte d'Altesi, Palazzo Altesi and Rosso di Altesino. Elegance, finesse, and a fruitier, richer style are the trademarks of Altesino’s wines, and have earned the estate a position among the very top producers of Brunello. This achievement is even more impressive considering Brunello is perhaps the most recognized Italian appellation. The magnificent and elegant 14th century building of Palazzo Altesi, housing the winery and a marvelous resort, rises amongst the eastern hills of Montalcino, not too far from Siena, in central Tuscany. The ancient coat of arms, carved in white Carrara marble, is still visible above the antique oak portal. The stunning Palazzo Altesi is the best example of Altesino’s charm and refinement. When the winery was purchased at the end of 2002 by Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini, owner of the nearby Tenuta Caparzo, winemaker Claudio Basla remained with the estate, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining Altesino’s hard-earned reputation as a Montalcino institution and a global leader in innovative winemaking.
Though the worldwide reputation of Brunello has encouraged a certain conservatism among Montalcino estates, Altesino has always been an innovative leader. The estate pioneered the technique of aging its IGT wines in small French oak barrels, limiting the time spent in oak to enhance each wine's personality. The resulting wines were a groundbreaking improvement over those produced by traditional methods. No longer overwhelmed by wood, they were able to display the unique characteristics of the fruit, with softened tannins and perfect balance. Not content to rest on its laurels, Altesino became the first Montalcino estate to introduce the concept of ‘cru’ wines, made with a special selection of grapes from a single vineyard. Its Montosoli Brunello, named after the prestigious vineyard, was the first of these wines and is still considered among the region’s finest. In 1985, Altesino also pioneered the concept of Brunello “futures” (wine purchased before its release) with its 1985 Brunello. The commitment to innovate also led to the development of many modern wines in the estate’s portfolio, including Alte d'Altesi, Palazzo Altesi and Rosso di Altesino. Elegance, finesse, and a fruitier, richer style are the trademarks of Altesino’s wines, and have earned the estate a position among the very top producers of Brunello. This achievement is even more impressive considering Brunello is perhaps the most recognized Italian appellation. The magnificent and elegant 14th century building of Palazzo Altesi, housing the winery and a marvelous resort, rises amongst the eastern hills of Montalcino, not too far from Siena, in central Tuscany. The ancient coat of arms, carved in white Carrara marble, is still visible above the antique oak portal. The stunning Palazzo Altesi is the best example of Altesino’s charm and refinement. When the winery was purchased at the end of 2002 by Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini, owner of the nearby Tenuta Caparzo, winemaker Claudio Basla remained with the estate, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining Altesino’s hard-earned reputation as a Montalcino institution and a global leader in innovative winemaking.
