Elena Pelegrini on the Rise

If you like to feature wines from women on the rise, I recommend Cerbaia Brunello di Montalcino . 

Run by third generation Elena Pellegrini , Cerbaia's estate is in the heart of Montosoli, considered one of—if not the best—areas of Montalcino. Neighbors include Valdicava, Sassetti and Baricci.

To be clear, Cerbaia Brunello is 100% single vineyard Montosoli (and not to be mistaken with Cerbaie which blends a teeny portion of Montosoli with other Brunello plots). It has been owned by the Pellegrini family since 1920, who purchased the site in disrepair as it had been idle during wartime.

Cerbaia's 4.5 ha vineyard sits at 400m elevation. Farming is organic—and always has been since the Pellegrinis first planted in 1970s. The wine is aged in Slavonian casks, a hallmark of classic producers.

Add to this Cerbaia's fascinating history which begins with Clemente Santi, the pioneer of Brunello. Santi owned vast estates in Montalcino and Pienza, some of which he developed into vineyards. Over the years, his wine became one of the most prized and expensive of Italy. 

But the ultimate seal of approval came at the 1867 World's Fair in Paris, when Santi's wine won against regional stalwarts of France. And a principal vineyard for Santi's 1867 World's Fair winning wine is now the Cerbaia estate. 

With Elena now in charge, the wines from this remarkable site are coming back to an international stage. The '13 Brunello di Montalcino got 93 points from James Suckling and 91+ from Ian D'Agata. To be sure, Elena is a perfectionist and Cerbaia's acclaim will only grow.

With so many compelling facets to Cerbaia Brunello di Montalcino '13, I recommend picking some up for your busy holiday season.