Tenuta CastelGiocondo
Ripe al Convento Brunello Riserva 2020
Brunello DI Montacino DOCG
Ripe al Convento’s name signifies both the ripeness that the Sangiovese grapes are able to achieve and the almost sacred single-vineyard site where they are grown. Sitting on the highest hills of the CastelGiocondo estate at 450 meters above sea level, this small single vineyard is exposed to the warm afternoon sun, marly soils and bracing Mediterranean winds. Aged an extra year in wood, Ripe al Convento is not only a reserve wine by law–it is the ultimate expression of the estate.
VINEYARD
This wine grows from a small vineyard with shaly and marly soils in the highest reaches of the estate, sitting at 450 meters above sea level. That elevation gives the wine tension while its southern exposures ripen the grapes beautifully.
WINEMAKING
This wine ferments in stainless steel with careful pump-overs. It ages in a mix of barriques and stainless steel for 12 months, and several months more in bottle before release.
TASTING NOTE
A complex, kaleidoscopic wine, this wine’s berry and cherry flavors will retreat behind the already-present savory notes of graphite and cigar. Ethereal and long, its dense tannic structure enables this wine to age for decades.
Color
Red
Blend %
100% Sangiovese
Appellation
Brunello DI Montacino DOCG
Alcohol
15%
Suggested Retail Price
$170
Reviews
Wine Spectator - March 18, 2026 "There’s plenty of black cherry and blackberry fruit in this red, along with mineral and black pepper notes, plus a touch of forest floor. Dense and even muscular for the vintage, with a vibrant feel and well-endowed, dusty tannins."
James Suckling - December 14, 2025 "Aromas of cherries, dried flowers, orange peel and rose petals follow to a medium body with a solid core of fruit and firm tannins that give the wine form and intensity. Nicely framed by the acidity and a toffee-like undertone. Some tobacco, too. Traditional character in many ways."
Vinous - November 20, 2025 "The bouquet of the 2020 Brunello di Montalcino Ripe Al Convento is defined by balsamic black cherries, perfumed rose tones and a dusting of autumnal spice. It opens with a balanced inner sweetness and textures of weighted silk, as nuances of cocoa and violet inner florals amass toward the close. Pleasantly chewy and long, the 2020 leaves a spicy flourish and a twang of tart blackberry while finishing with excellent length."
Jeb Dunnuck - February 18, 2026 "Pouring a saturated red hue, the 2020 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Ripe Al Convento is attractive and fresh on the nose, with cherry cordial, blueberries, crushed roses, polished leather, and sweet Mediterranean herbs. The palate is full-bodied and elegant, with ripe, fleshy tannins, balanced acidity, and a touch of alcoholic warmth that comes through on the finish. Tasted a second time, it feels even more complete and should offer a long window for enjoyment."
Trade Materials
Other Wines by this Producer
Brunello di Montalcino
Montalcino
CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG is crafted from a blend of diverse soils, producing a wine with great complexity that evolves over time. The estate's ideal conditions—southwest-facing vineyards, altitudes of 300-400 meters, and well-drained soils—create the perfect environment for Sangiovese. The wine has a bright ruby-red color and an aromatic bouquet of red fruits like raspberry, blackcurrant, and pomegranate, with floral notes of violet and rose. Spicy hints of white pepper, star anise, and toasted nuances complement the dense tannins and mineral finish.
