Banfi BelNero Toscanna IGT 2022
A rich, polished Super Tuscan-style red from the celebrated Castello Banfi estate in Montalcino.
Blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, it combines ripe blackberry and plum with layers of liquorice, cocoa and tobacco, all wrapped in smooth, elegant tannins. Powerful without becoming overly heavy, Belnero brings together the generous fruit of Tuscany with the structure and sophistication of classic Bordeaux varieties.
The excellent 2022 offers impressive concentration, a long finish and genuine ageing potential, making this an ideal choice for anyone looking to step beyond traditional Chianti into the richer, more modern style of premium Tuscan red.
Italy
Tuscany
Blend
750ml
14.50%
2022
IGT
ToscanaBanfi is one of Tuscany's best-known estates, centred around Castello Banfi at Montalcino. Belnero represents a distinctly modern side of the estate, using international grape varieties grown in Montalcino to produce a powerful yet refined Tuscan red.
The 2022 is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot grown across soils ranging from well-drained sandy-clay with abundant stones to more moisture-retentive calcareous clay. Each grape variety is fermented separately in Banfi's temperature-controlled Horizon tanks, which combine stainless steel and French oak.
The growing season was warm and dry, but rainfall towards the end of August and beginning of September helped maintain grape quality and freshness. The resulting wine combines concentrated dark fruit with impressive structure, soft tannins and savoury complexity. The 2022 has also received strong critical recognition, including a 92-point review, highlighting its blackcurrant and plum character, cedar and tobacco complexity and dense yet balanced structure.
Belnero is a full-bodied, dry red that's rich and powerful but also remarkably smooth. Expect plenty of ripe blackberry and plum, with cocoa, tobacco and spice adding a more sophisticated edge.
Despite its Tuscan origins, this isn't the bright, cherry-led style you might associate with traditional Chianti. The Cabernet and Merlot give it a darker, richer and more velvety personality.
If you enjoy Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux blends, Brunello or rich Rioja Reserva, but want something with the warmth and generosity of Tuscany, Belnero is an excellent choice.
- Nose: Rich and expressive, with plum jam and blackberry accompanied by liquorice, cocoa and tobacco. The 2022 also shows darker blackcurrant character alongside cedar and warm spice.
- Palate: Full-bodied and concentrated, with ripe blackberry, plum and blackcurrant fruit supported by smooth, velvety tannins. Cocoa, liquorice and savoury tobacco add complexity without overwhelming the fruit.
- Finish: Long and persistent, with dark fruit, cocoa and savoury spice lingering alongside beautifully polished tannins.
- Grilled Ribeye Steak – Rich beef stands up beautifully to the wine's concentrated fruit and tannins.
- Slow-Braised Beef – Long cooking complements Belnero's soft texture and savoury depth.
- Roast Lamb – Dark fruit and spice work wonderfully with rich, tender lamb.
- Wild Game – The wine's structure and tobacco character complement deeper game flavours.
- Porcini Mushroom Risotto – Earthy mushrooms bring out its savoury Tuscan character.
- Aged Pecorino – Firm, salty cheese balances the wine's ripe fruit and powerful structure.
- Serve at 16–18°C – Banfi's recommended serving range for the 2022.
- Decant for around 45–60 minutes – Particularly worthwhile while the 2022 remains youthful.
- Use a large red wine glass – Allows the dark fruit, tobacco and spice aromas to develop.
- Drink now or cellar – Already enjoyable with aeration, but its concentration and structure give it excellent further ageing potential.
