Occasionally, I meet a winemaker whose connection to their land and vines is reflected in every bottle they produce. Tommaso Cortonesi of Montalcino exemplifies this rare dedication to his craft. The third-generation winemaker is committed to tradition and quality, which is reflected in the wines he creates.
A Family Legacy Rooted in Montalcino
Tommaso’s journey begins in the 1970s, when his grandfather purchased the La Mannella estate in the rolling Tuscan hills just north of Montalcino. At first, the Cortonesi family farmed and sold the grapes. By 1985, the Cortonesi name was gaining recognition, and the family began bottling their own wines, always guided by the lessons and values passed down through generations.
Today, Tommaso leads the estate with a philosophy that honors his roots while embracing the innovations that will shape the future. He told us, “I’m a lucky man who has been allowed to realize my dream and continue my family’s efforts of making wine in the land where I was born.” That sense of gratitude is woven into every decision and every vintage.
Two Vineyards, One Vision
The Cortonesi estate is split between two distinct sites: La Mannella in the north, with its clay and limestone soils, and Poggiarelli in the southeast, defined by rocky, marl-rich terrain. Each vineyard brings its own character to the glass.
In the 1990s, Tommaso and his father recognized the unique potential of these terroirs. Rather than blending the fruit, they began bottling single-vineyard Brunellos, allowing each site to express its own identity. It was a bold move that set them apart and showcased the true diversity of Montalcino.
Tradition Meets Innovation
Tommaso honors tradition, but he’s not afraid to innovate. He’s made bold choices, like aging his acclaimed Brunello di Montalcino I Poggiarelli in French oak, which brings balance and silkiness to the wine’s structure.
Sangiovese is the only grape in the Cortonesi vineyards. This deliberate focus on a single varietal is a testament to Tommaso’s commitment to authenticity and tradition.
Family, Focus, and the Future
What resonates most in Tommaso’s story is his deep sense of gratitude and responsibility. He often speaks of giving back to the land and honoring the wisdom of his father and grandfather.
As the newly appointed Vice President of the Brunello Consortium, Tommaso is helping to shape the future of Montalcino, ensuring Brunello remains relevant and inspiring for the next generation of wine lovers while keeping one foot firmly planted in the region’s history and traditions.
With just 19 of their 138 acres dedicated to world-class Brunello, and a total production of around 80,000 bottles, the Cortonesi family remains hands-on. Tommaso still makes wine with his parents and only recently hired their first non-family member. Every decision is guided by the belief that wine should reflect its single vineyard block, its unique terroir, and the character of the vintage.
What I Tasted
Each wine told a story of its vineyard, its vintage, and the family behind it. There were some special wines paired with a great lunch at Sachet.
2022 Cortonesi Lèonus Toscana IGT
I tasted notes of berries, light chocolate, hazelnut, plum, blueberries, and cherries with hints of nutmeg. This was described as a great everyday wine or even a summertime pool wine and I agree. Even in Texas Summers.
2022 Cortonesi La Mannella Rosso di Montalcino
I tasted raspberry, almond, plum, and balsamic. Structure and freshness are prominent, reflecting the La Mannella site’s signature style.
2019 Cortonesi La Mannella Brunello di Montalcino
I tasted red fruit, spices, almond, earth, and grilled herbs. It was a wine that lingered.
2018 Cortonesi Poggiarelli Brunello di Montalcino
I tasted notes of cherry, rosemary, cedar, and ripe tannins. The wine showed what the Sangiovese grape is capable of achieving.
2016 Cortonesi La Mannella Brunello di Montalcino Riserva
This was a surprise wine at the end of the tasting. It was such a treat. The 2018 was beautiful, but the 2016 showed how the grape can age over time. I tasted black fruit, layers of spice, earth, and tobacco, showing the best of La Mannella’s terroir.
Tommaso Cortonesi’s story is a testament to the enduring power of heritage, innovation, and a commitment to the land. By honoring the traditions established by his grandfather while embracing the unique character of each vineyard, Tommaso has positioned Cortonesi wines as true reflections of Montalcino’s diversity and spirit.
