Welcome to The Somm Set. Each month we’ll be sitting down with a guest sommelier and uncovering their guilty pleasures, cellar staples, and everything in between! Follow as they hand-select their favorites from our warehouse, giving you the inside scoop on cellar must-haves!

This month on The Somm Set, we’re excited to feature Chris Blanchard, Master Sommelier. Join us as we explore everything from his love of Syrah to his passion for the perfect musical wine pairings.

Vine Hill Ranch
Truffle & Wine Pairings
La Toque 39th Annual Truffle Fest
For The Love Of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Read Our Interview With Chris Blanchard
The Somm Set Home
 

This week from Chris Blanchard:

Less than an hour’s drive south of Siena in Italy’s Tuscany region lies the medieval town of Montalcino. This beautiful village sits at nearly 2000ft elevation and is topped by an ancient fortified citadel with expansive views of patchwork vineyards across the countryside. The town gives name to the growing region that was awarded the coveted UNESCO Heritage Site designation in 2004 and is home to the royal Brunello Sangiovese Grosso clone. The name refers to the brown color of the ripe grapes responsible for this region's wines since first recorded in the 15th century, but no doubt made great wines many years earlier.

This local Brunello clone of Sangiovese Grosso was originally identified and vinified back in 1842 and made into the red wines of Feruccio Biondi Santi, which were noted for their quality, and remained the only wines of the town for nearly 100 years after. In 1963 the DOCG law was passed, and the first red wine of this designation in 1980 became Brunello di Montalcino, meaning literally “the Brunello clone of Sangiovese from the town of Montalcino.” 

When I was wine director at REDD restaurant in Yountville, Brunello was a popular choice for diners who loved Cabernet's style, tannin structure, and fruit qualities. Both wines can sometimes be mistaken for each other, as the lush cherry fruit, firm tannins, and structure share similarities. Brunello has power and presence, with ripe cherry, raspberry, and red fruit notes, dusty tannins, savory herbs, bright acidity, and an unbelievably long finish, which pairs so well with a variety of foods.

Benchmark has an amazing selection of great Brunello from many iconic producers, including the legendary original producer, Biondi Santi. I have also identified a few outstanding wines at incredible prices from some of the best vintages in the area. So, fire up the grill for a Tuscan Bistecca or even a hearty bowl of Bolognese will make your enjoyment of these wines even more thrilling.

Check out this week's featured wines below!