Red wine | Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy
The Máté Famiglia Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2019 is a masterpiece of Tuscan viticulture, hailing from a boutique, organically certified estate in the prestigious Santa Restituta area of Montalcino. Founded by author Ferenc Máté and his wife, winemaker Candace Máté, the estate occupies land that was a Roman vineyard 2,000 years ago, now meticulously restored to produce world-class Sangiovese. This Riserva is a rare find, with an exceptionally small production, ensuring that only the finest, most perfectly mature grapes are selected for the blend.
In the glass, it presents a brilliant, deep ruby hue. On the nose, it is both complex and inviting, offering a dramatic aromatic profile of ripe red cherries, raspberries, and wild herbs, underscored by subtle mineral nuances. The palate is a triumph of balance and elegance: silky, well-sculpted tannins carry the juicy, fruit-driven core, while the structure is powerful yet refined. This 2019 vintage is widely considered a triumphant year for Brunello, characterized by a long, even growing season that has gifted the wine with exceptional depth, purity of fruit, and impressive aging potential—it is expected to evolve beautifully over the next two decades.
This wine is a stellar companion for festive dinners and elegant menus. It pairs magnificently with game dishes such as venison or wild boar, as well as hearty, slow-cooked red meats, roasted lamb, or mature, hard cheeses. To fully appreciate its layered complexity, it is recommended to decant this wine for at least 60 minutes before serving at a temperature of approximately 16–18°C. Whether you are a dedicated collector looking to cellar a top-tier Tuscan classic or a connoisseur seeking an unforgettable drinking experience, this Máté Riserva stands as a pure, expressive testament to the unique terroir of Montalcino.