Should Brunello be chilled?

Answered by Willie Powers

Brunello, being a red wine, is typically served at a slightly cooler temperature than room temperature. This helps to enhance the flavors and aromas of the wine. However, it is important to note that chilling Brunello too much can also negatively impact its taste.

The ideal temperature to serve Brunello is between 18°C and 20°C or 64°F and 68°F. This temperature range allows the wine to showcase its full potential and provides a pleasant drinking experience. When served at the right temperature, the flavors and aromas of the wine are well-balanced and harmonious.

Chilling Brunello for about 30 minutes in the fridge can help to bring it to the desired temperature, especially if the wine has been stored at room temperature. It is important to avoid over-chilling the wine, as this can mute its flavors and make it less enjoyable to drink.

On the other hand, serving Brunello too warm can also be detrimental to its taste. When the wine is too warm, the alcohol can become more prominent and overpower the other characteristics of the wine. Additionally, the flavors may seem overly ripe or jammy, and the aromas may become too intense.

Personal experience has taught me the importance of serving Brunello at the right temperature. I have made the mistake of serving it too cold or too warm in the past, and it significantly affected my enjoyment of the wine. When served too cold, the flavors were muted, and the wine seemed flat. Conversely, when served too warm, the alcohol was overpowering, and the wine lacked the balance and complexity that I expect from a Brunello.

To ensure that Brunello is served at the correct temperature, I recommend using a wine thermometer to measure the temperature before serving. This can help to avoid any guesswork and ensure that the wine is enjoyed at its best. If the wine is too warm, a quick 30-minute chill in the fridge can do wonders to bring it to the ideal temperature.

Brunello should be served at a slightly cooler temperature than room temperature to enhance its flavors and aromas. Chilling the wine for about 30 minutes in the fridge can help to achieve the desired temperature range of 18°C to 20°C or 64°F to 68°F. However, it is important to avoid over-chilling the wine, as well as serving it too warm, as this can negatively impact its taste. By serving Brunello at the right temperature, you can fully enjoy its complexity, balance, and the unique characteristics that make it such a special wine.