Coffee lovers, wine enthusiasts, tea devotees—step into the world of Brunello 2015, a vintage that turned warmth into complexity. The 2015 growing season in Montalcino was a masterclass in balance: warm days, cooling rains, and a harvest that delivered wines both bold and refined. Ten years later, these bottles are revealing their secrets, offering a window into how climate change is reshaping the region’s identity. Twelve top producers, including Le Ragnaie, Argiano, and Biondi-Santi, gathered at Vinitaly to revisit their 2015 Brunellos, proving that even in a warmer world, tradition and innovation can coexist.
The 2015 vintage was a turning point. Rain in mid-August and early September refreshed the vines, tempering the heat and allowing grapes to ripen without burning. Yet the real story lies in how winemakers adapted. At Le Ragnaie, Riccardo Campinoti shifted harvest dates earlier to preserve freshness, a strategy now standard. Argiano’s Bernardino Sani credited the September rain for a vineyard-wide reset, leading to a 2015 Brunello that was both approachable and a preview of future greatness. Meanwhile, Biondi-Santi’s Jacopo Biondi Santi delayed picking until late September, crafting a softer, more accessible wine that defied the vintage’s generosity.
What stands out is the tension between power and elegance. The 2015 wines are evolving rapidly, with some showing plum, earth, and spice while others cling to their youthful acidity. Marilisa Allegrini’s San Polo Riserva, for instance, hints at a decade of aging, its cherry and plum fruit anchored by fine acidity. Yet the real takeaway? Climate change isn’t just altering flavors—it’s forcing winemakers to rethink every step, from vineyard management to cellar techniques. As Andrea Cortonesi’s Uccelliera Riserva demonstrates, patience and precision can turn warmth into depth.
Key points: The 2015 vintage proved that balance is possible even in a warming climate. Winemakers like Campinoti and Sani adapted by adjusting harvest times and vineyard practices. The wines are evolving, with some showing immediate appeal and others promising decades of development.
So, what’s your favorite way to experience a Brunello that’s defied the heat.
So, what’s your favorite way to experience a Brunello that’s defied the heat? Share your thoughts below.
Questions & Answers
How did the 2015 Brunello vintage perform?
The 2015 Brunello showed great potential with balanced acidity and ripe fruit. However, some areas faced challenges due to weather fluctuations, affecting overall consistency.
Is 2015 Brunello considered a good vintage?
2015 Brunello is generally regarded as a solid vintage, offering complexity and structure. While not universally outstanding, it’s highly regarded for its drinkability and aging potential.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
