Rosso di Montalcino, with double the number of vineyards +21% of bottles in 5 months

Doubling of the area under vines and probable doubling of production as well. Rosso di Montalcino presents itself with important numbers at its annual event, Red Montalcino, scheduled for 20 June at the Medieval Fortress of the Sienese town.

A wine that has its own precise identity distinct from Brunello (even if the ampelographic base is the same: 100% Sangiovese) and that now has an important challenge ahead of it. Last year, in fact, the Consorzio del Brunello di Montalcino, in response to strong market demand, authorised the almost doubling of the vineyards to produce Rosso, which went from 520 to 872 hectares. A choice made at a time when there was no risk of tariffs on the horizon, but which now becomes operative in a changed scenario. At the moment, market data seem to support the Consortium's choice despite trends that speak of declining consumption for red wines.

According to data from Valoritalia, in the first five months of this year, the number of 'fascette' (the state marks affixed to the neck of the bottle) was 21% higher than in the first five months of 2024. There are 1.9 million more bottles on the market.

'This is a highly representative indicator,' they explain at the Consortium, 'although not directly related to sales. Early purchases from the USA, with respect to the entry into force of tariffs, have also had an impact on the figures". Overall, the Consortium estimates atotal production of Rosso of about 7.3 million bottles, double the average of previous years.

"We monitor the markets with great attention - explains the new President of the Consorzio del Brunello di Montalcino, Giacomo Bartolommei (elected a few days ago by 81% of the voters) -. For Rosso di Montalcino, the 2023 vintage is still on sale. The companies will begin to put the 2024 vintage, that of the increase in surface area, on the market from July and only from September will it be possible to make evaluations. The 2024 production was abundant, both because of the new vineyards and because of the effect of the heavy rainfall. But I have confidence in the producers' ability to regulate themselves by opting for a gradual release onto the market as has already happened in the past. The Consortium is now aiming to re-launch promotional and communication activities, confirming investments in the US market, but also strengthening initiatives in Asia, South East Asia and China, an outlet to be presided over".