When it comes to magnums, Bordeaux has long dominated the conversation. And while the region’s grandeur is undeniable, there’s a whole world of outstanding magnums beyond the Left and Right Banks. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sun-soaked vineyards of Napa Valley, winemakers across the globe are embracing the format - not just for its striking presence, but for the way it enhances a wine’s aging potential and complexity. If you're looking to venture beyond Bordeaux, here are some of the finest magnums from around the world.
Italy: The Power of Super Tuscans & Brunello
Few countries embrace the magnum format quite like Italy. At the pinnacle of collectible Italian wines sits Masseto, a 100% Merlot from Bolgheri often compared to the finest Pomerols of Bordeaux. Equally revered is Sassicaia, a Super Tuscan that helped redefine Italian winemaking with its Bordeaux-style blend and remarkable aging potential.
For those who prefer tradition over innovation, Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is one of the most sought-after magnums in Tuscany. As the producer who pioneered Brunello, Biondi-Santi’s magnums are built for long-term cellaring, offering depth, structure, and elegance in every sip.
Spain: The Masters of Tempranillo
Spanish magnums offer a different kind of grandeur, often requiring years - if not decades - of patience. Vega Sicilia Unico, one of Spain’s most revered wines, is aged for a decade before release and represents the pinnacle of Ribera del Duero’s winemaking tradition. Deep, complex, and powerful, it’s a cornerstone of any serious collection.
For something more contemporary, Pingus by Peter Sisseck is one of Spain’s most exclusive wines. Made from old-vine Tempranillo, it showcases incredible concentration and finesse. It remains one of the most sought-after Spanish magnums, offering a modern expression of Ribera del Duero’s terroir.
United States: Napa Valley’s Cult Magnums
In Napa Valley, magnums are synonymous with prestige. Screaming Eagle Cabernet Sauvignon is the ultimate collector’s wine, known for its velvety tannins, complexity, and near-mythical status. Few bottles command as much attention, and magnums are even rarer.
Equally revered is Harlan Estate, a wine that defines power and finesse in Napa’s Bordeaux-style blends. For those looking for something more accessible but still iconic, Opus One - a collaboration between Robert Mondavi and Château Mouton Rothschild - offers an impeccably structured Cabernet blend that ages gracefully in magnum format.
Beyond the Obvious: Hidden Magnum Gems
For those willing to explore further, there are plenty of magnum-worthy wines outside the usual suspects:
Penfolds Grange (Australia): The most iconic Shiraz from Australia, known for its richness, complexity, and ability to age for decades.
Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard Malbec (Argentina): A high-altitude Malbec that delivers elegance, structure, and depth in equal measure.
FX Pichler Grüner Veltliner (Austria): A stunning example of why white wines deserve to be bottled in magnums, offering intense minerality and longevity.
Beyond their presence on the table, magnums also offer a slower, more graceful aging process - giving wines the time to evolve in complexity while holding onto their freshness. Whether you are looking to cellar something special or simply make a statement at your next gathering, a magnum rarely puts a foot wrong. And with so many remarkable bottles beyond Bordeaux, now is as good a time as any to explore the broader world of large-format wine.
