Brunello di Montalcino (English edition): Understanding and Appreciating One of Italy’s Greatest Wines by Kerin O’Keefe

The Brunello di Montalcino embodies the excellence of Italian wine and remains one of the most respected in the world. With her sharp expertise, critic and author Kerin O'Keefe offers a fascinating exploration of this grand cru, from its complex history to its contemporary challenges.

🍷 A Dive into the World of Brunello

In this detailed work, the author takes us through the hills of Montalcino in Tuscany, exploring the unique link between the terroir and this exceptional wine. Far from being a simple oenological guide, this book offers an in-depth analysis of the Tuscan wine culture and the particularities that make Brunello di Montalcino an exceptional wine.

📜 A Rich and Eventful Past

The book traces the rise of Brunello, from its humble beginnings to its ascent among the most prestigious wines in the world. It also addresses a key episode in its modern history: the "Brunellogate" scandal in 2008, which highlighted controversial practices by some producers who sought to alter the wine's authenticity through non-compliant blends.

🏡 Portraits of 60 Essential Producers

The author dedicates a part of the book to the iconic wine estates of Montalcino, highlighting nearly 60 producers. Each portrait is enriched with valuable information about their wine-making philosophy, their terroir, and their vision of Brunello di Montalcino. A true guide for grand cru enthusiasts wishing to deepen their knowledge and discover exceptional producers.

📍 A Structured and Accessible Guide

Written in a fluid and captivating style, this book aims to be both precise and accessible. Its organization as a guided tour of Montalcino allows the reader to better understand the diversity of this vineyard and the many facets of Brunello.

📖 Book Features

• Title: Brunello di Montalcino (English edition)
• Author: Kerin O’Keefe
• Format: Hardback
• Number of pages: 312
• Illustrations: 28 black and white photographs, 7 maps
• Publisher: University of California Press
• ISBN: 9780520265646
• Publication Date: April 18, 2012
• Weight: 560g
• Dimensions: 178 x 228 x 15 mm
• Language: English

This book is an essential reference for all Italian wine enthusiasts, whether they are amateurs or professionals.