Product Description:
A magnum of harmony from Montalcino’s northern slopes. The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino from Canalicchio di Sopra in magnum format is an exemplary expression of vintage, site, and craft. Sourced equally from the clay-rich Canalicchio and mineral-laced Montosoli crus, this wine reflects the unique northern terroir of Montalcino with stunning clarity.
Aged for 36 months in large Slavonian oak casks, the wine balances opulence with precision. The extra volume of the magnum format slows maturation, preserving structure and aromatics for extended cellaring—ideal for those seeking both approachability and age-worthiness in one bottle.
Expect a broad spectrum of red and black fruit, floral lift, and earthy spice, underpinned by fresh acidity and elegant tannins. It’s a benchmark Brunello for celebrations, long decants, and serious collectors alike.
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
– Complex and lifted
Black cherry, strawberry, sweet violets and sandalwood overlaid with cinnamon and incense.
PALATE
– Structured and layered
Sanguine red and dark fruits wrapped in crisp acidity and firm, polished tannins.
FINISH
– Persistent and poised
Spiced, savoury and mineral with a long, balanced aftertaste.
Reviews & Accolades
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)
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)
Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Sangiovese
Country - Italy
Region - Montalcino, Tuscany
Vintage - 2020
Bottle Size - 1.5L
ABV - 15%
Closure - Cork
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