Historical Significance: Biondi-Santi is credited with creating Brunello di Montalcino as we know it today. Clemente Santi, a pharmacist, is often considered the founder of Brunello di Montalcino, and his grandson Ferruccio Biondi-Santi further elevated the wine's reputation in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Single Vineyard Tradition: Biondi-Santi's Brunello di Montalcino is traditionally made from Sangiovese grapes grown in the estate's Il Greppo vineyard. The focus on a single vineyard imparts a sense of terroir and consistency to their wines. Riserva Classification: The term "Riserva" indicates that the wine has undergone extended aging, a hallmark of premium and age-worthy Brunello di Montalcino. Riserva wines are often released after additional years of maturation, showcasing the estate's commitment to quality and longevity. Sangiovese Grosso: Biondi-Santi exclusively uses Sangiovese Grosso, a specific clone of the Sangiovese grape, for its Brunello di Montalcino. This clone is known for producing wines with depth, structure, and complexity. Traditional Winemaking: Biondi-Santi adheres to traditional winemaking methods. The grapes are hand-harvested, fermented in large Slavonian oak casks, and aged for an extended period, often in large oak barrels known as botti. 1999 Vintage: The 1999 vintage in Tuscany, including Montalcino, is generally considered good. Weather conditions during the growing season play a crucial role in shaping the characteristics of the wine, and skilled winemakers like Biondi-Santi can excel in harnessing the potential of each vintage. Wine Characteristics: The 1999 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva from Biondi-Santi would likely exhibit the classic traits of the estate's wines. Expect aromas of red cherries, floral notes, leather, and earth. The palate may showcase a harmonious balance of fruit, acidity, and well-integrated tannins. Longevity and Aging Potential: Biondi-Santi's Brunello di Montalcino Riserva wines are renowned for their exceptional aging potential. Properly stored bottles can evolve over decades, gaining complexity and tertiary aromas while maintaining their structural integrity. Limited Production: Biondi-Santi produces Brunello di Montalcino in limited quantities, particularly the Riserva wines. This limited production adds to the exclusivity and desirability of their offerings. Cultural Heritage: Biondi-Santi's role in shaping the identity of Brunello di Montalcino has elevated it to the status of a cultural heritage. The estate's wines are not only celebrated for their quality but also for their historical significance within the world of Italian wine.