Laura Brunelli

In the sun-kissed hills of Montalcino, Italy, a remarkable journey unfolds—a tale of passion, dedication, and the enduring legacy of one family’s love affair with winemaking. At the heart of this narrative stands Laura Brunelli, a visionary winemaker who has seamlessly woven tradition and innovation to craft some of the most exquisite Brunellos the world has ever known.

Born into the picturesque landscape of Montalcino, Laura’s destiny seemed intertwined with the vines that graced the hillsides. Yet, it was a journey that took unexpected turns before she fully embraced her calling. Laura’s story begins with her late husband, Gianni Brunelli, a man whose name would become synonymous with excellence in Brunello production.

Gianni’s upbringing saw him leave Montalcino for Siena at a young age, only to return years later with Laura by his side. Together, they embarked on a culinary adventure, establishing Osteria Le Logge—a beacon of gastronomic delight near Piazza del Campo. It was here that their passion for fresh, locally sourced ingredients ignited a desire to reconnect with their agricultural roots.

In 1987, the couple reclaimed the Brunelli family farm, Le Chiuse di Sotto, north of Montalcino, setting the stage for their foray into winemaking. With a keen eye for quality and an unwavering commitment to excellence, they produced Montalcino’s prized olive oil and Brunello—a labor of love shared with friends and patrons alike.

A pivotal moment arrived a decade later when they acquired 11 acres of south-facing vineyards at Podernovone, offering panoramic views of Monte Amiata. This expansion marked the beginning of a new chapter—one that would see Laura fully immersed in the art of winemaking following Gianni’s passing in 2008.

Inheriting her husband’s passion and expertise, Laura embraced her role as custodian of the Brunelli legacy, upholding the family’s ethos of quality and tradition. Amidst the rolling vineyards of Podernovone, Laura’s dedication to sustainability and biodiversity shines brightly. Rare antique-rose varieties bloom alongside meticulously tended vines, a testament to her reverence for nature’s wisdom.

In the cellar, Laura’s commitment to tradition is unwavering. Natural yeast fermentation and aging in medium-sized Slavonian casks form the cornerstone of her winemaking philosophy. It’s a delicate dance between tradition and innovation—a balance she strikes with finesse and grace.

“I like to achieve natural balance by blending Sangiovese from the two vineyards,” Laura explains. “Le Chiuse di Sotto imparts perfumed bouquets, while Podernovone’s grapes lend structure and depth to the wine.”

With a keen eye on the future, Laura has embarked on ambitious projects, including the construction of a spacious cellar at Podernovone—a testament to her commitment to excellence and innovation.

Though Laura sold her interest in the restaurant years ago, her focus remains firmly rooted in Montalcino, where she continues to nurture the Brunelli estates with unwavering dedication and passion. Through her tireless efforts, Laura Brunelli stands as a beacon of tradition and excellence—a true steward of Montalcino’s winemaking heritage, ensuring that the legacy of Gianni Brunelli lives on in every bottle of Brunello crafted with love and devotion.