The tradition of Brunello di Montalcino is so deeply rooted and solid that every year, several events are organized to celebrate it. Among these, the most important is undoubtedly Benvenuto Brunello.
Brunello di Montalcino: Origins of the Name
Brunello di Montalcino is a red wine with a Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG), produced in Tuscany, within the municipality of Montalcino in the province of Siena. The origin of the name Brunello is an interesting one, as it was the name that Montalcino residents gave to what they believed to be a grape variety. It wasn't until 1879 that the Ampelographic Commission of the Province of Siena determined that Sangiovese and Brunello were the same grape variety. In Montalcino, the name Brunello then evolved to identify the wine produced from Sangiovese grapes. Since then, Brunello has won over many wine lovers, becoming one of the most appreciated Italian wines worldwide.
Benvenuto Brunello: What Is It?
The Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino has been organizing the Benvenuto Brunello event in Montalcino for over 25 years. Every year, during the event, the new vintage of Brunello di Montalcino is presented to the market, along with other wines from the region.
During the days of the Benvenuto Brunello event, the Stars are awarded to the recently completed Brunello vintage, and a celebratory tile is placed on the wall of Montalcino's historic Town Hall, signed by a notable figure from the cultural scene. This act highlights the importance of the wine to its city and the dedication and passion with which it is crafted.
Finally, during this event, the Leccio d’Oro Award is given to restaurants and wine shops that have stood out, both in Italy and abroad, for their offerings of Brunello di Montalcino.
The upcoming November 11th will mark the beginning of the 31st Edition of Benvenuto Brunello, which will bring a significant evolution to the already prestigious event.
31st Edition of Benvenuto Brunello: News and Tradition
The 31st Edition of Benvenuto Brunello marks another milestone in the now renowned celebration of Brunello di Montalcino.
Last year, during the 30th Edition, the event marked a turning point by allowing the early tasting of new Brunello vintages ahead of the commercialization date set by law, thus becoming the first true "en primeur" event for Tuscan and Italian wine.
This year, the event will become international, being celebrated in Italy starting November 11, 2022, and simultaneously on November 17th in four renowned cities: London, New York, Toronto, and Los Angeles.
The preview will be repeated this year, but with a significant new feature that demonstrates the value of Brunello not only in Italy but also around the world. Brunello carries Italy into the world through its flavor and aroma, inviting us to journey with it.
This is also a strategic decision, as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom collectively account for about half of the value of Brunello exports. According to Fabrizio Bindocci, president of the Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino, the goal is to further strengthen the positioning of fine wine abroad through events that maintain a strong connection with Montalcino.
The Italian Benvenuto Brunello event will open, as usual, with national and international press on November 11th, followed by days dedicated to influencers, bloggers, sommeliers, industry professionals, and wine lovers.
All that’s left is to wait and toast to Italian excellence worldwide! Visit our site for more information about the
wine and food tours in Montalcino!