Livio Sassetti Pertimali Brunello di Montalcino 2020

The Sassetti family are Montalcino legends, often drawing comparisons to Biondi-Santi and Soldera – but for far, far less cash out of pocket. With 96 points and that kind of pedigree, grabbing this iconic Brunello for under $50 is an uncontested steal.

Four generations of the Sassetti family have made wine in the picturesque town of Montalcino for well over a century. In 1967, Livio Sassetti was among the founders of the Consorzio del Brunello di Montalcino, which was the same year that the DOCG system was written into law. Faithful to the teachings of his family, Livio expanded and renewed the vineyards over time, while modernizing the winery to protect the unique genetic heritage of their old vines. Today, the spectacular estate is managed by Lorenzo Sassetti, Livio’s son.

Their legendary Pertimali parcel sits on the northern side of Montalcino, on the revered Montosoli hill, universally considered one of the region’s ultimate sweet spots for growing world-class Sangiovese. Marl and clay soils at high altitudes provide the environment for a classic expression of Brunello. The exceptional conditions of the 2020 vintage yielded a Brunello of remarkable purity and focus, and only 300 cases of this spectacular wine were made (we have but a small stack of those!).

The 2020 "normale" bottling explodes from the glass with intense raspberry, dark cherry, and wild plum, layered alongside perfumed notes of orange peel, fresh balsam, pepper, and crushed sage. Supported by a silky texture and deep mineral core, its beautifully integrated tannins carry it through an everlasting finish. Unlike the denser, brooding nature of the long-aged Riservas, the 2020 Brunello gives this wonderfully approachable, juicy, and expressive personality right now, while retaining the structure to cellar gracefully for many years ahead. At an unimaginable price of under $50, this is the ultimate buy for savvy Tuscan enthusiasts. Grab yours now!

FOOD PAIRINGS: We’re pairing this with a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina grilled over an open hardwood fire to complement the wine's subtle hints of earth and bark. Serve it simply alongside a charred radicchio and arugula salad drizzled with aged balsamic and high-quality olive oil… perfection!