"Wine is science but also beauty and memories." - Alessandro Bindocci
Winemaker Alessandro Bindocci exudes the endearing confidence of a man following his passion and destiny. The son of celebrated winemaker Fabrizio Bindocci, Alessandro has known since the tender age of 6 that wine would be at the center of his life. Today, Alessandro works side-by-side with his father at Il Poggione in Montalcino to produce acclaimed Brunello di Montalcino - one of Italy's most impressive and elegant wines.
Fabrizio and Alessandro Bindocci
Fabrizio Bindocci began working at Il Poggione in 1976 and Alessandro joined the winery in 2005 after completing his advanced degree in enology at the University of Pisa. Purchased by the Franceschi family in 1890, today Il Poggione is in the hands of the fifth generation. More than a winery, Il Poggione is a working farm with livestock, produce, and olive trees (you can also purchase their olive oil).
Over a lively lunch at Morandi restaurant in New York City, Alessandro shared Il Poggione wines and plenty of wisdom and humor. From vibrant rosé to sophisticated Brunello di Montalcino, the personality of Il Poggione wines shines through - just like the winemaker.
Il Poggione Brancato Rosato 2015 ($18.99)
Alessandro charmingly describes rosé as "fruit juice for grown ups!" Refreshing and vivacious, this eye-catching coppery-salmon hued wine is made from 100% Sangiovese. Its round and luscious texture and flavors of orange zest, ginger, and cherry give this vino approachable complexity. Delicious enough to sip by itself but substantial enough to pair with Prosciutto and fried calamari.
Il Poggione Rosso di Montalcino 2014 ($29.99)
I like to think of Rosso di Montalcino as Brunello's flirty younger sibling. Like Brunello, Rosso is produced from 100% Sangiovese but it is aged for a much shorter period of time. Juicy and fruit-forward, Il Poggione's Rosso has mouth-watering cherry and wild red berry flavors, velvety tannins, and a lovely lingering finish. This vino has personality for days and gives a satisfying tease of the taste of Brunello: some even call it a "Baby Brunello." Pair with pizza, pasta, barbecue, or a burger.
Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino 2011($84.99)
Although it was aged for three years in large French oak barrels, this Brunello is not overwhelmed by woody characteristics. As Alessandro said, "you should taste the wine, not the oak. Sangiovese is a beautiful grape but it is delicate and can be overpowered by oak." This stellar vino is full and well-balanced with complex flavors of cherry, leather, spices, and earth. A perfect match with a juicy steak and hearty mushroom dishes.
Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna Paganelli 2010 ($125)
Produced only in the best years and in limited quantities, this beautiful Brunello comes from the oldest vineyard on the Il Poggione estate - I Paganelli. This vino displays a beautiful integration of fruit, wood, and time. Concentrated yet graceful, this sophisticated sip displays impressive energy and freshness along with hints of spice and leather. Pair with a candlelight dinner of Bistecca Fiorentina (Tuscan style Porterhouse steak).
If you are planning a trip to Montalcino, Il Poggione welcomes visitors for tours and tastings by appointment. Accommodations are also available at a completely restored estate farmhouse. Sounds like a perfect Tuscan getaway!
