exclusive debut
2020 CastelGiocondo
Brunello di Montalcino DOCG
"CastelGiocondo is a unique place in Montalcino, where the diverse exposures and soils – galestro, clay and Pliocene sand – create a Brunello with infinite layers. With complex notes that evolve over time, there is always something new to discover, savour and remember."
- Lamberto Frescobaldi
Tenuta CastelGiocondo
Located in Montalcino, Tenuta CastelGiocondo has been in the Frescobaldi family since its purchase in 1989. Vittorio Frescobaldi began working as the estate’s agronomist in 1973, though the history of this ancient stronghold stretches back to the 12th century, when it was built to defend the road from Siena to the sea. The estate has always been a true pioneer in Montalcino and one of the few wineries to produce Sangiovese since the early 1800s; a document attests to a tasting of the 1834 vintage in 1878.
CastelGiocondo means “lovable castle,” and the label shows a fresco painted by Simone Martini depicting a historic attack on the Montemassi castle in 1323. Tenuta CastelGiocondo is a standard-bearer of the appellation, and its wines are all about power and longevity. Learn more here.
Brunello di Montalcino
CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG is crafted from a blend of diverse soils, producing a wine with great complexity that evolves over time. The estate's ideal conditions—southwest-facing vineyards, altitudes of 300-400 meters, and well-drained soils—create the perfect environment for Sangiovese.
Vinification and aging
Once the grapes arrived at the winery, they underwent scrupulous selection on the sorting benches. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature, with frequent pumping over, especially during the early stages. The wine was then aged in wooden barrels, where it was able to mature and become more refined until it achieved perfect harmony. It was then aged in the bottle.
Vintage notes
The 2020 season began with rather limited rainfall in the winter months, after improved water reserves in the last months of 2019. The water reserves generated in this period made it possible to cope with the highest temperatures of the summer period from June to August. The vines began to bud in the last days of March. Flowering began in the second fortnight of May, followed by smooth progress helped by ideal conditions: hot, dry and slightly windy days. The absence of rain during the harvesting period made it possible to bring structured, healthy and perfectly ripe grapes to the cellar. The phenolic content and the sugar content are perfect.
Tasting Notes
The 2020 Brunello CastelGiocondo Sangiovese has a wonderfully intense, brilliant ruby red colour. Even in this very favourable vintage, it stands out for its unmistakable elegance and intriguing complexity. The bouquet opens with floral notes followed by fruity sensations that recall small red and black fruits. Tertiary and spicy aromas follow, such as liquorice, nutmeg, green tea leaves and coffee beans. The tannic structure is refined and dense, with a mineral quality that envelops the palate and stands out for its harmony. The finish is long and persistent.
Domaine Roy & fils members are invited to enjoy exclusive first access with their Fall Release.
The 2020 CastelGiocondo is offered in limited release at $70 per bottle, with preferred pricing extended to our members.