Product Description:
Two crus. One wine. Pure Montalcino expression. The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino from Canalicchio di Sopra is a statement of intent—a blend of Canalicchio’s clay-rich soils and Montosoli’s mineral-laced galestro, finely tuned into a single, commanding expression of Sangiovese. First made in 1966, this Brunello is the estate’s flagship and draws entirely from their estate-grown fruit, with no Riserva bottled in 2020 so the best parcels could support the Annata.
Long maceration (25 days), gentle extraction, and 36 months in large Slavonian oak casks allow terroir and vintage to take centre stage. The result: power meets grace. A wine with serious structure and depth, yet impressively supple, generous and aromatic. Designed to be enjoyed over decades but surprisingly approachable now, thanks to its fine tannin and round, ripe fruit.
Expect floral perfume, spice, dark cherry and that northern Montalcino freshness. An ideal match for bistecca alla fiorentina or a wild boar ragu.
The Maker
Founded by Primo Pacenti in 1962, Canalicchio di Sopra has been a family-run estate for over six decades. In 1987, Primo was joined by his son-in-law Pier Luigi Ripaccioli, and since 2001, Pier Luigi's children—Francesco, Simonetta, and Marco—have taken the helm. The estate produces both Rosso di Montalcino and Brunello di Montalcino, drawing from the esteemed Canalicchio and Montosoli parcels on the northern side of Montalcino, which together total 19 hectares of vineyards.
The soils in the Canalicchio parcels are predominantly clay with pebbles and a strong mineral content, resulting in wines with aromatic intensity, opulence, and minerality. The Casaccia parcel is particularly notable for its extraordinary elegance, latent power, balance, and silky tannins, which often see it bottled separately. The Rosso di Montalcino is made from the estate's younger vineyards and represents the winery's calling card—a fresh, fruity, and versatile expression of Sangiovese. The first vintage was produced in 1975, when it was still referred to as "Red Wine from Brunello vines.
"The soils in the Canalicchio parcels are predominantly clay with pebbles and a strong mineral content, resulting in wines with aromatic intensity, opulence, and minerality. The Casaccia parcel is particularly notable for its extraordinary elegance, latent power, balance, and silky tannins, which often see it bottled separately. The Rosso di Montalcino is made from the estate's younger vineyards and represents the winery's calling card—a fresh, fruity, and versatile expression of Sangiovese. The first vintage was produced in 1975, when it was still referred to as "Red Wine from Brunello vines."
Philosophy
For over 50 years, Canalicchio di Sopra has pursued the quest for elegance, which lies at the core of their winemaking philosophy. From cultivating their own Cru vineyards to choosing unique microclimates that naturally limit grape yields, every step is taken with care and precision to highlight the distinctive characteristics of their terroir.
The estate focuses solely on Sangiovese, embracing the grape’s ability to express the unique traits of their Canalicchio and Montosoli vineyards. By working closely with these differences in terrain, exposure, and microclimates, Canalicchio di Sopra has built a strong identity, defined by their classical yet distinct wines. Their 19 hectares of vineyards yield wines that are elegant, powerful, mineral-rich, and refreshing, with notable acidity and purity—a true reflection of the land, climate, and people who shape them.
Tasting Notes
NOSE
– Layered and expressive
Dark cherries, pomegranate, violets and cinnamon with sandalwood and subtle incense.
PALATE
– Firm yet fluid
Dense red and black fruits glide over a frame of elegant tannins, lifted by zesty acidity and spice.
FINISH
– Long and harmonious
A polished, persistent finish, with minerality and floral nuance trailing off slowly.
Reviews & Accolades
Graceful style to this wine, with earthy strawberries, cinnamon and sweet violets. Almost yellow stone-fruit, too. Full in body with crisp if not zesty acidity and intense, extracted and firm tannins giving a tight mid-palate. Yet, the finish is long and polished. Try from 2025. – James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com, 94–97 (Sep 2024)
Good energy in the glass is told with notes of black cherries, currants, raspberries, white chocolate and pomegranate. In the background black plums, blackberries, incense and sandalwood describe the secondary scene. Medium body, little extracted tannins and a simple progression finish. Drink now. – Raffaele Vecchione, WinesCritic.com, 93/100 (Oct 2024)
Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Sangiovese
Country - Italy
Region - Montalcino, Tuscany
Vintage - 2020
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 15%
Closure - Cork
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