Brunello di Montalcino by Biondi Santi: over 100 years of history
When talking about Brunello di Montalcino, the name Biondi Santi inevitably comes to mind, as it represents a cornerstone of Italy’s winemaking heritage. It was this family that, in the second half of the 19th century, created Brunello di Montalcino, one of the most prestigious and iconic Italian denominations.

The history of Biondi Santi, as often happens with the great names in Italian winemaking, is deeply rooted in the land. It all began with Clemente Santi, who started vinifying pure Sangiovese (Grosso) at the Tenuta Il Greppo, effectively coining the term “Brunello.” His work was carried forward by his grandson Ferruccio, who in 1888 produced the first bottle of Brunello di Montalcino.
The bottles presented in our Christmas Auction, lot 183, were refilled in 2001, as indicated by the official certificate. The refilling process is a service offered by the winery to give new life to bottles of important older vintages. This includes issuing a certificate that confirms the bottle’s authenticity, its perfect preservation, and the proper execution of the refilling process.
For wines with great body and longevity, time is both a precious ally—enhancing structure, complexity, and unique aromas—and an unforgiving enemy. Over the years, corks can lose their seal, allowing oxygen to enter and inevitably promoting oxidation. Refilling is thus the only solution to preserve the wine’s quality.

Christmas Auction, Lot 183, Brunello di Montalcino Biondi Santi Riserva 1955, Ricolmatura giugno 2001
Brunello di Montalcino Riserva by Biondi Santi
The Brunello Riserva is renowned for its exceptional longevity and has been produced only 42 times since 1888, in extremely limited quantities. The grapes destined for the Riserva come from the estate’s oldest vineyards, which are over 25 years old.
The 1955 Riserva is the only Italian wine to be listed among the twelve best wines of the 20th century according to Wine Spectator, one of the most prestigious and influential wine magazines in the world. This very vintage received an outstanding score of 99/100 from the magazine, with the following review:
“An intense bouquet of tar, dried porcini mushrooms, and mineral notes opens into a powerful yet elegant red. Licorice, dried cherry, iron, and spices merge on the palate, culminating in an extraordinary length on the finish. Magnificent, this is a Brunello of legendary stature.”

A producer who made history, an iconic wine: in 1969, President Saragat served this bottle, 1955 Biondi Santi Brunello Riserva, to Queen Elizabeth II at the Italian Embassy in London. The Queen was captivated. The rest is history.
Read also:
- Christmas Auction press release
- Christmas Auction: browse the catalogue