Brunello di Montalcino often conjures images of romance & timeless tradition - rolling Tuscan hills, ancient cellars, and wines that demand patience. But Siro Pacenti isn’t here to tread the same path. This is a producer unafraid to reimagine what Brunello can be, balancing deep respect for the region’s roots with a fresh perspective that’s unmistakably modern.
The Evolution of an Estate
Siro Pacenti began its journey in 1970, but it was Giancarlo Pacenti who turned it into a force of innovation. Taking over in the 1980s, Giancarlo brought an obsessive focus to vineyard management and winemaking techniques. His philosophy is simple yet daring: let the terroir speak, but give it a megaphone. While some purists bristle at his methods, Giancarlo Pacenti has earned a devoted following for pushing boundaries without losing sight of what makes Brunello special.
Two Vineyards, One Vision
The secret to Siro Pacenti’s wines lies in its two contrasting vineyards:
Pelagrilli (North): Cooler, clay-heavy soils deliver structure and finesse.
Piancornello (South): Warmer, rockier terrain brings richness and power.
Blending these distinct terroirs, Giancarlo crafts wines that marry elegance and intensity - achieving a harmony that feels effortless but is anything but.
Breaking Tradition, Building Legacy
Siro Pacenti doesn’t play by the old rules of Brunello, and that’s exactly the point.
French Oak Pioneers: While most Brunello ages in Slavonian oak (not SLOVENIAN), Giancarlo embraced French barriques early on. The result? A smoother, more refined texture that lends a ton of complexity.
Precision in Every Detail: Hand-harvesting, micro-vinification, and laser-focused vineyard techniques make every second count.
Sustainability in Action: Biodiversity and minimal intervention reflect their long-term commitment to the land.
These wines feel alive - they’re rich in texture, layered in flavour, and unmistakably modern (more approachable, more open) while staying true to their Montalcino DNA.
The Wines: Innovation in a Glass
Siro Pacenti’s lineup is a study in balance and precision, each bottle offering a distinct expression of the estate’s bold vision.
Vecchie Vigne Brunello di Montalcino: Crafted from old vines (35+ years), this is the flagship. Think ripe cherries, tobacco, spice, and a finish that lingers like a favourite song. It’s Brunello dialled up to eleven.
Pelagrilli Brunello di Montalcino: “Entry level” would be an understatement. Fresh, vibrant, and approachable, this wine is perfect for those wanting a taste of Siro Pacenti without waiting years for a Brunello to evolve.
The Debate: Modern vs. Traditional
Not everyone is sold. Critics argue that French oak and approachability stray too far from Brunello’s rustic heritage. But who decides what Brunello must be? Siro Pacenti’s wines invite us to expand our horizons - less about fitting a mould and more about celebrating Montalcino’s capacity for evolution. And this industry definitely needs more progression.
Why Siro Pacenti Deserves a Spot in Your Glass
In a region that sometimes feels tied to the past, Siro Pacenti reminds us that tradition and innovation can coexist beautifully. Giancarlo’s wines challenge assumptions, offering a fresh perspective without losing the soul of Brunello.
If you’ve ever wondered how modernity can enhance, not erase, tradition, grab a bottle of Siro Pacenti. Whether it’s the commanding presence of Vecchie Vigne or the lively charm of their Pelagrilli, you’ll find a wine that makes you rethink what Brunello can be.
A BIG THANK YOU
I would like to thank Cornerstone Wines for providing the wines and setting up this interview and to Praelum for lending the space. You can also watch this video on Youtube.
As always, thanks for watching - stay thirsty, stay curious. If you would like to further support me, you can follow me on Instagram or LinkedIN.
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