Brunello well under $20 from Trader Joe's. We reveal the true producer of the Poggio Vicino Brunello di Montalcino and whether it's worthy of the Brunello name.
100% Sangiovese from Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy. While there's no indication of the exact aging on this wine, Brunello regulations require at least two years in oak barrels.
The wine is available exclusively at Trader Joe's for just $16.99, which is a rather shocking price given the wine-searcher average price for Brunello right now is $82! Even finding Brunello for under $30 is extremely difficult. It is imported by 8 Vini, Inc.
As we noted when we reviewed the Kirkland Signature Brunello, thanks to the government seal on the top of the bottle and the online traceability tool at the Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino website it's actually quite easy to determine the producer of this Trader Joe's exclusive wine.
Plugging this code into the traceability tool reveals…
This wine is made by Tenute Piccini, a very large producer who makes quite a few wines in Tuscany. Their labels include the Villa Al Cortile Brunello di Montalcino that retails for $40-$50.
But enough about all that. What we're most concerned about is whether the wine is worth the $16 investment, so let's check it out.
Poggio Vicino Brunello di Montalcino has a deep ruby red color with complex notes of licorice followed by ripe black cherries on the palate. Elegant and refined tannins balance the structure leaving you with a fruity lingering finish. Open at least 30 minutes before enjoying. Serve at room temperature.
14% Alcohol
The 2015 Poggio Vicino Brunello di Montalcino begins with an inviting aroma full of licorice and red cherry along with a little leather and spice.
Tasting the wine is a bit of a letdown to be honest. It did grow on me a bit as it had some time to breathe so give it plenty of air. It features licorice, red and black cherry, a little spice and just touch of an earthy streak.
It ends dry and grippy with decent length. I don't get the feeling this will improve much with age so it's probably best to drink now.
Overall, I didn't find it to be a very good representation of Brunello and it's not nearly as good as the Kirkland Signature version (although to be fair it is also $10 less).
It does barely squeak by with a Recommended Buy rating but there's much better Sangiovese out there at this price point. Let's be honest, the main reason to buy this one is just to say you're drinking Brunello.
You can also find more of our favorite Sangiovese here!
