Brunello

Caparzo's La Casa vineyard, located in an enviable position on the hill of Montosoli, has been vinified separately since 1977 and is one of the first single-vineyard bottlings in Montalcino. Like regular Brunello, La Casa has a surprising underlying acidity that gives the wine brightness and focus, the northern exposure of the parcel certainly playing a role. Fresh herbs and pomegranate contrast with nuances of sun-baked earth and incense. On the palate, the wine is very full-bodied and concentrated, with tactile tannins, yet remains fresh and flowing at all times. SUPERIORE.DE

"Even on the nose, it is much more complex and interesting than the "normal" Brunello, with ripe candied cherries, fine floral notes, violets, lavender, but also mineral and earthy notes such as iron. Very elegant and quite precise on the palate, intense and present, with wonderfully ripe tannins and sweet berries, showing origin and character with a multi-layered final and powerful Sangiovese spice." Weinwisser

"Intense, finely spiced bouquet with fresh berry flavours, also a floral component; solid texture, the tannin-acid structure in balance, polished finish on notes of stone fruit, tobacco and eucalyptus." Vinum

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Filigree and multi-layered expression on the nose, reminiscent of raspberries and blackberries, dried tomatoes and balsamic tones. Opens up smoothly on the palate, fine-meshed, grippy tannins at the core, dark fruit, fine balsamic notes, long finish." Falstaff

"Subtle power and plenty of cherry, plum and mineral flavours in this soft red wine, plus a hint of wild herbs. It's quite fluid and open, with a slight tannic abrasion on the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"Subtle mocha and crushed allspice emerge, then finally wild, red forest berries. The palate is more exuberant, revealing a generous core of pure, delicious raspberries infused with vanilla and liquorice. The gravelly tannins remain firmly anchored and need time to resolve. An appetising, stony finish." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino Vigna La Casa 2019 comes from the hills of Montosoli, opposite the town of Montalcino. It is youthfully moody and dark in the glass, slowly evolving with violet flowers, crushed wild berries and sweet spices. Silky and supple, it swings across the palate with a juicy texture of mineral red fruits, while floral notes resonate on the inside and grippy tannins come in towards the end. The Vigna La Casa finishes long, structured and classically dry, leaving a hint of liquorice and a touch of tart orange lingering on the tongue. The future is very promising, but the 2019 will require a lot of patience." Vinous

"The Caparzo 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna La Casa offers a balanced presentation of candied cherries, dried fruit and toasted spices. This is a beautiful and joyful wine with velvety soft tannins and good internal energy that adds dimension and depth to the mouthfeel. Vigna La Casa is a contemporary expression of Montalcino with added fruit concentration and structure, and the results are carefully balanced throughout." Wine Advocate

"Flavours of blueberries, blackberries and chocolate, yet subtle and perfumed. Full-bodied with chewy tannins and plenty of structure. Shows depth and has a purpose. Needs time to develop soon. Try it after 2027." James Suckling

Fine, silky tannins frame a core of crushed berries, flowers, liquorice and new leather. The wine's inner extract sweetness reveals itself only with time of aeration, adding harmony and class. Already today, a super-elegant and at the same time refined and open Brunello presents itself, which always remains graceful and fresh at the same time, despite all its fruit fullness. Our perspective: With increasing bottle maturity, the drinking pleasure of this first-class Sangiovese increases even more! SUPERIORE.DE

"Mid ruby. Deep savoury cherry nose with hints of pine. Racy cherry fruit on the palate with fine coating tannins. Long, vibrant and concentrated. Gorgeous length and freshness." Jancis Robinson

"Ripe, sweet plum, cherry and blackberry flavors are complemented by iron and tobacco accents in this suave red. Shows fine balance and texture, with well-integrated tannins and acidity and a long, mouthwatering finish." Wine Spectator

"A debut on the Place this year from a vintage hailed as one of the best in the last decade. Grapes come from a 30-hectare vineyard bought in 2017 by Belgian businessman Marcel van Poecke who has invested heavily in replantings and new cellar facilities. The texture and overall feel here are lovely - powerful and succulent bramble fruits fill the palate, gliding across the tongue while coffee grounds and dried herbs settle in the background giving structure and definition. This has an aerial quality with real finesse." Decanter

"This is so aromatic and floral with cedar, dried roses, and black cherries. It’s full-bodied, yet so refined and tight with silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Tight and focused. Needs time to open, but shows beautiful finesse and focus." James Suckling

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino offers a pure and classic expression of the vintage with bright fruit tones, wild cherry, toasted nut, blue flower and forest floor. Whereas the other wines in the Poggio Antico portfolio undergo aging in smaller tonneaux, this wine is aged in large Slavonian casks instead. You taste the lift and brightness of the fruit, and it's all quite lovely. Grapes are sourced across a 13-hectare site at a very high 500 meters in elevation. The name of this area is I Poggi, and the soils here are a bit lighter and rockier with both schistous galestro and limestone alberese. I love the delicate approach here, the intensity of those floral aromas, and the silky nature of the mouthfeel. This classic Brunello really stands out." Wine Advocate

"Classic Sangiovese aromas of underbrush, wild berry and new leather mingle with whiffs of camphor. Supremely elegant, the focused palate shows precision and great energy, featuring juicy red cherry, pomegranate, white pepper and black tea set against chiseled, refined tannins. Vibrant acidity keeps it balanced while a salty mineral note lingers on the close. Fantastic showing." Wine Enthusiast

Laura Brunelli's Brunello is an outstanding reflection of the appellation every year. A floral bouquet, the purest expression of cherry and strawberry imaginable, hints of mint, sage and cedar dust - all are found in its stunning bouquet. The youthful density of the ripe primary fruit contrasts with salty minerality and lively acidity, leaving a cascading and crisp impression on the palate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Scents of wild strawberries and violets; well balanced texture, the tannins tight, elegant course, pithy fresh finish." Vinum

"Shiny medium ruby red. Spicy, mineral nose with fragrant fruit but not really opening up yet. Elegant, long flavours of raspberry and fruit with plenty of fresh acidity and grippy, gravelly tannins. Still youthful and will take some time to come together." Jancis Robinson

"Enticing nose of rosemary, wild cherries, lemon peel, chocolate strawberries and pralines. It is medium-bodied with a bright, fruit-driven palate framed by fine-grained tannins. All in balance. Drinkable from 2023." James Suckling

"The dark, seductive Brunello di Montalcino 2018 rumbles from the glass with a blend of crushed plums and black cherries, complemented by nuances of grated sage. It is soft and deep, engulfing the palate with ripe wild berries and spices, underlined by a spicy herbaceous steak. A web of fine tannins creates a truly classic impression, while mentholated herbs and hints of wild strawberries keep popping up. This youthfully masked beauty will need minimal ageing to be at its best." Vinous

"As with the 2017 vintage, Laura Brunelli will not be releasing a Riserva. Instead, the Olmo vineyard, which typically forms the backbone of the Riserva, is an important component in this Annata Brunello, making a beautiful and complete wine. Mint, lavender and fennel lead on the nose, while sweet, juicy persimmon and crisp pomegranate provide the backdrop on the palate, and the chalky tannins are quite insidious in their grip. On the surface it's approachable, but its substance, intrigue and backbone suggest more to come." Decanter

"This red wine with its cherry and raspberry aromas also offers flavours of eucalyptus, minerals, earth and almonds. Lively and balanced, with an intense, delicious finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino captures the essence and spirit of the Sangiovese grape very well, a grape that in the right hands delivers endlessly nuanced and complex results. This wine reveals wild cherry, blue violet, blood orange, rusty nail and sweet earth. Hints of scorched earth or baked clay highlight the warmest months in this growing cycle. The result is balanced and fresh. I have mentioned alcohol levels throughout this review, and although the 14% registered here is still quite high, it is below the average of its peers. This is a very well done job." Wine Advocate

Caparzo's La Casa vineyard, located in an enviable position on the hill of Montosoli, has been vinified separately since 1977 and is one of the first single-vineyard bottlings in Montalcino. Like the normal Brunello, La Casa has a surprising underlying acidity that gives the wine brightness and focus, and the northern exposure of the parcel has certainly played a role in this.

La Casa 2020 is a terrificwine with a deep ruby red colour and a bouquet of small red berries, cedar wood and spicy, fragrant flowers that opens up for minutes. Precise, taut and finely layered on the palate, with silky textures and a palate concert of savoury black cherries, spices, leather, tobacco and tar. Dense yet elegant as it progresses, the fine-grained tannins round off its perfect beauty. Very intense and with wonderful ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"As a cru from the Montosoli vineyard, this classic enchants with a complex yet multi-layered aroma of small fruits, violets and balsamic notes; polished in the mouth, it has precise acidity and fine-grained tannins, an intensely fresh fruit finish with a long finish." Vinum

"The 2020 shows itself in its warmer register with aromas of ripe blackcurrant and violets punctuated by juniper and flint. The palate is rich and supple, with a repetition of blackberries and a hint of chocolate in the background. The concentration in the mid-palate is good and overall it is medium-bodied, and its suede-like tannins provide a structured finish." Decanter

"From a single vineyard, recognisable by the old Tuscan farmhouse in the middle of the vines, this is a more concentrated and fleshy expression of Sangiovese. The Brunello di Montalcino Vigna La Casa 2020 opens with aromas of dark fruit, sweet earth and toasted oak. The finish is not too powerful, which is what gives this wine its elegant mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna La Casa is dark and imposing, with earth tones, crushed rock and savoury spice before its notes of wild berry fruit with flint. It is silky smooth, almost creamy in flavour, with an abundance of mineral cherry and strawberry tones and a hint of exotic spice towards the finish. The 2020 tapers off wonderfully perfumed and long, mixing violets and lavender with nuances of sour citrus over a bed of fine-grained tannins. The balance here is out of this world." Vinous

"This wine is really beautiful, with cherry, peach and orange peel character. It is medium-bodied with very fine tannins and a long, long finish. Creamy and very polished. It lingers for minutes. A graceful and complex Brunello 2020." James Suckling

Argiano recently caused an international sensation with its Brunello 2018, when the renowned Wine Spectator ranked it as the 8th best wine in the world in 2023. It is fermented in cement tanks and matured slowly in oak wood; its fruit comes from a 22-hectare vineyard with limestone marl soils. Now comes the follow-up vintage, and it is not only very promising because it already perfectly reflects the extraordinary Montalcino year 2019 in its own unique way.

Dark yet floral in the glass, with a hint of crushed stone and violet pastilles embellishing the black cherries. Energetic yet silky-smooth on the palate, with cooling minerality and juicy acidity that layers masses of tart wild berries over a core of savoury minerals. The primary fruit is young and agile and the grippy tannins, which envelop the entire palate, guide it into a long, savoury final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, concentrated aroma, dark red fruit, touch of orange peel, earthy, pithy and powerful. Lots of substance in the mouth, juicy structure with pressure and freshness, very complex and wide-ranging, ripe with penetrating freshness and flavour, lingers forever with good structure. Already fun now, but will certainly benefit from further bottle ageing." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby red with cherry-red reflections. Dried berries on the nose, slight hints of coffee grounds and black tea, with a hint of liquorice on the finish. Energetic on the palate, precise acidity and good juiciness, plus creamy fruit, flows along fruit-emphasised, still a little young on the final, good foresight." Falstaff

"Brilliant, deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Powerful, concentrated fruit nose with spicy hints. Lots of tangy fruit and ripe, grainy tannins that form a very good balance. Long, chewy, deep fruit. This wine will develop well over the next few years." Jancis Robinson

"The 2019 is strongly reminiscent of the village and exudes savoury, sweet herbs, rose and bergamot. Generously weighted with juicy strawberries and cherries, it fills the mouth without feeling heavy. Spicy mandarin provides freshness. Long, chalky tannins caress the palate with increasing firmness as it flows confidently across the palate. Rosemary and sage linger on the finish." Decanter

"Crushed ash stones, cloves, dried black cherries, rosemary and balsamic herbs form a spice box as the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino blossoms in the glass. The Brunello di Montalcino is surprisingly fresh and energising, almost juicy, yet refined and focused, with a silky texture that brings out crisp wild berry and orange tones that slowly saturate the palate. The finish is spicy and long, its energy never flagging, with grippy tannins that tug at the cheeks as the liquorice and cranberry notes fade." Vinous

"The Argiano 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is stronger than the previous 2018 and 2017 vintages, thanks to the precision and focus of its fruit flavours in this balanced vintage. It shows ample depth and volume, with sweet cherry and blackberry flavours leading into gently toasted spice and earth. Floral hints of lilac and iris make a brief but incisive appearance. Velvety tannins and a beautifully concentrated, medium-bodied palate ensure good persistence." Wine Advocate

"Delicious flavours of juicy red cherries, strawberries, rose petals and wild bush, along with hints of juniper and ground herbs. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and crisp acidity. Spicy and savoury with a nice balance and finish. Lots of fruit on the finish. Give it more time to develop." James Suckling

"This wine is packed with ripe cherry, plum and raspberry fruit, with floral, mineral, juniper and wild herb accents adding depth and complexity. There's also plenty of energy and structure, providing excellent balance, with a long finish." Wine Spectator

"Red cherry, then notes of wild mint, with a finish on hints of blood-orange peel. Dense-citrusy drinkability, iodized tannins." Luca Gardini

Fantastic wine from terrific2019, which embodies the style of the winery just as convincingly as its high-altitude terroir. Fruity aromas of wild cherry, baking spices and savoury herbs characterise its hauntingbouquet. Elegance and fullness in the perfectly contoured flavour, which gives all the components the necessary freedom. One of the best Poggio Antico in a long time: deep, long and multi-faceted - a real beauty! SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant ruby red colour. Great, inviting nose of fresh raspberry fruit, some watermelon, red peach and wild strawberries, with elegant hints of mint. Juicy and elegant on the palate, with clear, radiant fruit, full-bodied, with tightly woven, slightly salty tannins, well-integrated alcohol, accessible and easy to drink!" Falstaff

"Dark ruby red with orange reflections. Deep, dramatic balsamic nose with a hint of oak. The palate is very precise without losing concentration. Polished, tangy fruit with a layer of sandy tannins to round it off." Jancis Robinson

"Very fragrant and lively, it combines scents of Mediterranean forest, pine and fresh mint with cooler notes of juniper and pepper. On the palate, it is very smooth and polished, with an almost shiny lustre. It's deliciously full-bodied with layers of ripe, macerated cherries accompanied by chinotto bitters. The tension comes from the tangy acidity rather than the soft tannins. Finishes with cinnamon spice." Decanter

"An explosion of pure cherry fruit bursts from the glass, with notes of iron, tobacco and spice adding complexity. Lively and balanced, with chalky tannins on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"Lots of aromas of bark, mushrooms and wild flowers with crushed cherries. Multi-layered. Medium body with nice acidity and a racy and beautiful finish. Very fine tannins. Lots of energy here." James Suckling

"A deeply savory, almost briny nose of balsamic, seaweed, salt, pepper and black sesame draws just enough sweetness from ripe black cherries. The palate brings more incisive notes of blackberry, along with more salt, more pepper and an emergent earthiness, which, along with symbiotic tannins and acid, create a sensation of easy balance." Wine Enthusiast

Castello Romitorio's 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a classic expression of the 5-star vintage in Montalcino (consortium rating), showing plenty of ripe fruit, minerality, herbal nuances and varietal purity. This wine hits the sweet spot between elegance and power, which is not easy to achieve. It offers a wide range of Sangiovese flavours with wild cherry, forest floor, crushed clove and medicinal herbs, but it also shows a plump density and a velvety texture. Filippo Chia and his team have created a highly attractive Brunello for medium to long drinking. SUPERIORE.DE

"Densely spicy, compact bouquet with dark cherry, tart fruit and spice on the palate; compact, powerful style with a racy finish, very classic, noticeable tannin and grip, beautiful freshness and spice on the final." Weinwisser

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Ripe cherry, milk chocolate and cold smoke on the nose, roasted almonds and mint on the finish, multi-layered. Lively entry on the palate, precise acidity and fresh fruit, taut and juicy, fine-grained tannins, with grip, persistent and balanced on the finish, with elegant iron tones." Falstaff

"Brilliant ruby red colour. Somewhat spicy and still quite dense on the nose. Compact cherry fruit on the palate with plenty of depth. Adequate concentration with plenty of supple acidity and a core of gravelly tannins. Still needs some time, but is very promising. Beautiful label." Jancis Robinson

"Polished and refined wine with flavours of wild strawberries, dark cherries and violets, rich and full-bodied with balanced, soft acidity. Firm and fine-grained tannins. Energetic. Better after 2027." James Suckling

"The charming 2019 from Romitorio emphasises the juiciness of Sangiovese. It delights with aromas of sweet, damp earth, sage and cocoa. Spacious and airy on the palate, where juicy, citrus-like acidity drives flavours of pomegranate and orange. Elegantly framed by fine, slender tannins. A woody intensity emerges on the finish. A pleasure even at this youthful stage." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with dried cassis and cranberry, and there is a hint of something floral and fragile, like crushed red rose petals or potpourri. However, the wine also shows a growing momentum, especially as it opens up in the glass and you start to recognise dark spices, cloves, bay leaf and thyme. There's a hint of sweetness in the mid-palate, even some dried raspberry, which makes the wine more approachable overall." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is seductively dark and spicy, exuding an earthy blend of crushed stones, savoury herbs, spiced blood oranges and dried cherries in the glass. The palate is spoilt by its soft texture and the deep fruit of wild berries. Lively acidity and mineral tones give it lift, but also depth. The 2019 finishes dramatically long and structured, youthfully withdrawing into itself as orange and rosy floral flavours linger. The house style comes into its own here, emphasised by the radiant fruit of the 2019 vintage." Vinous

"The result of thirty years of research and selection of the most suitable parcels is a compact Brunello with notes of Marasca on the nose, with a hint of wild mint and a touch of soya. In the mouth it is salty and taut, the tannins are perfectly integrated into the body and the finish is long and persistent." Luca Gardini

"Notable for its pure cherry and kirsch aromas and flavors, this red is also stylish and graceful. Rose, wild thyme and stony mineral elements come into play as this develops on the palate. Beautifully integrated, fresh and firm, this glides to a long, resonant aftertaste." Wine Spectator

Enrica and Ettore learned winemaking from none other than Giancarlo Pacenti. The grapes for this vinophile masterpiece come from a small vineyard in Castelnuovo dell'Abate. Deep, full-bodied expression with warm aromatic layers adding impressive intensity to the bouquet of dark plum, blackberry, dried cherry, liquorice, tar, black truffle and leather. Then on the palate, a beguiling extract sweetness, again very complex and resonant, in quiet unison with the characteristics of the exceptional terroir. The 36 months of very slow ageing in large oak barrels provide a wonderful harmony and a very good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"A taut, linear version, this red features cherry, strawberry, earth and tobacco flavors, allied to a dense structure. Compact right now, with less length than many of its peers, a little aging may allow it to relax and stretch out. Best from 2025 through 2042." Wine Spectator

"The dark and alluring bouquet of the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino really keeps you at the edge of the glass, where notes of tobacco and dried flowers give way to ripe black cherries, plum and hints of cloves. It’s velvety in texture, yet there's a lift of minerals and acids here that maintains wonderful balance. Concentrated red/black berries accumulate, coating the palate in primary fruit under an air of purple inner florals. Its tannic heft sneaks up on you, previously masked by the 2016’s youthful intensity. There’s so much going on here and so much more to come after five to ten years of cellaring." Vinous

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino turns the dial up a notch in terms of intensity and power. The bouquet reveals dark fruit, dried cherry, cassis, cola, spice and rosemary essence. I can't help but notice the wide aromatic presentation and the considerable depth. There is a touch of white chocolate or bitter almond as well that is unique to this wine. Winemaking is executed in a traditional manner, with aging in large Slavonian oak casks that lasts three careful years. The vineyard site is home to schistous galestro soils, and defining mineral characteristics are carried through on the close. Only 4,700 bottles were made." Wine Advocate

"This has a ripe, polished nose with plenty of ripe plums, cedar, sandalwood and toffee. It's full-bodied with firm, drying tannins. Wait for these to integrate. Lots of dark chocolate and juicy fruit on a very long finish." James Suckling

Sandro Chia's remarkable 2020 vintage is taut, forward and downright bold in the glass. On the palate, it impresses with a lot of natural richness and beautiful opulence of fruit, complemented by varietal elements of wild cherry, blue flowers and soft earth. Secondary flavours of tobacco, cedar and cinnamon then quickly surprise, adding complexity and personality to the wine, which is built up in many deep layers. It has wonderful potential for further ageing in the bottle, but it is already an absolute delight and the quality of the fruit and its length make it irresistible. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is vividly fresh and focused, with a cascade of dried strawberries, minty herbs and shaved cedar forming its seductive bouquet. It is a paragon of purity, with silky textures and a graceful feel. It presents ripe red berry fruit accompanied by a tactile minerality. A gentle pull of fine tannins defines the finish. Notes of sour citrus fruits mingle with tart blackberries and liquorice." Vinous

"The epitome of elegance that is impossible to resist now, it has a light, gentle quality without lacking intrigue or nuance. It benefits from its lovely freshness, and its gentle tannins are seamlessly integrated, merging with and shaping a core of delicate wild berries. Hints of orange peel and ginseng permeate the wine, and the finish is characterised by a spicy note." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2020 clearly stands out from its competitors, as it is characterised by its seamless mouthfeel, bright fruit concentration and balanced freshness. It is aged for 24 months in oak and the grapes are harvested from a site with cool clay soils. The finish is soft and polished. If you want to buy an Annata Brunello from the accessible 2020 vintage, I would recommend this wine." Wine Advocate

As every year, the grapes for Riccardo Campinoti's "white label" come from the scattered vineyards of Le Ragnaie, making the wine a precise and classic snapshot of the diverse Montalcino area and the wonderful 2019 vintage: violets and Mediterranean scrub meet wild strawberries, stones and a fascinating earthiness. It also epitomises the vibrancy of Sangiovese, which initially appears medium-bodied and then gains strength as firm, dusty tannins wrap themselves around a tangy core. The finish is energetic and uplifting - an elegantly moulded Brunello with impeccable symmetry and purity of fruit. As with the estate's single-vineyard bottlings, fermentation is spontaneous, maceration lasts 45 to 50 days and ageing takes place in large Slavonian oak barrels. SUPERIORE.DE

"Almost medium ruby red colour. A lively, concentrated nose of fragrant red fruit. A real upgrade on the Rosso, more complex and with great depth without losing its elegance. Juicy, almost racy and pure on the finish with fine tannins that emphasise the fruit." Jancis Robinson

"The sum of the fruit from different plots in cooler and warmer regions reveals the characteristic tautness of Le Ragnaie. Delicately scented, the nose hints at game and then turns to brushwood, rose hips and alpine flowers. The core of cranberries and redcurrants is medium-bodied and firmly anchored. Bright acidity and firm, crisp tannins provide a solid framework." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens slowly in the glass, dusty and floral, with a depth of dark red fruits and exotic spices. It is silky smooth with medium body and lively acidity that drives the tart wild berries and mineral tones, while rosy florals race across the palate. It finishes with admirable length and concentration. Crisp tannins frame the experience without slowing down the momentum. The 2019 is a wonderful result of the vintage and the style of the house. Don't let it pass you by." Vinous

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2019 shows delicate aromas of blue flowers, redcurrants, cranberries and floral earth. It has all the basic components of a classic Sangiovese. The fruit comes from the estate's vineyards, which are located at an altitude of 200 to 600 metres above sea level, the highest point of the appellation. The palate is spoilt with baking spices and silky, almost glossy tannins. The mouthfeel is very fine. This is a very Burgundian Brunello." Wine Advocate

"This red features a core of cherry and strawberry fruit, along with leafy underbrush and rosemary accents. Sinewy tannins take over midpalate, vying for attention with the fruit on the lingering, mineral-tinged aftertaste, yet this is elegant and balanced overall." Wine Spectator

Pianrosso comes from a south-west facing vineyard in the Castelnuovo dell'Abate subzone at an altitude of around 300 metres with mainly Galestro soils. It is dark, rich and deeply seductive, showing ripe black fruit enveloped in hints of gravel, sage and exotic spices. Although it has a velvety and almost creamy texture, it finds harmony through juicy acids and a blend of ripe black cherries and plums. Notes of liquorice and baker's chocolate balance the salty minerality and fine-grained tannins of the Pianrosso in a long and dramatic final. For a wine with such power, this is a beautiful symmetry. Definitely put it away for a few more years. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Cru is a selection of the best vines. Dark, spicy bouquet, extremely complex and multi-faceted, beguiling with fresh, ethereal, smoky and herbaceous notes reminiscent of Mediterranean herbs, with mineral, salty hints and floral nuances (rose petals, violet blossom), backed by redcurrant. Dense and powerful on the palate with a core of fresh, juicy fruit, very cleverly arranged, skilfully framed by fine, polished, almost sweetish tannins that linger on forever, very elegant, with dark, ethereal-balsamic spicy notes on the long final." Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby colour with a bright garnet rim. Finely drawn, appealing nose with clear notes of rosehip, crisp cherries, some blood orange and clove. Opens on the palate with pithy, gripping tannins, flows calmly, with a lovely sweet mellowness on the finish, very good tension, savoury and long." Falstaff

"Sweet berries and cherries on the nose, along with fresh violet and lilac notes. Full-bodied with juicy tannins and a spicy finish that opens up on the palate. Lots of ripe cherry flavour. Also tar. A rich and multi-layered Pianrosso. One of the bigger, riper wines of the vintage." James Suckling

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso tempts the imagination with a darkly alluring bouquet that keeps the taster at the edge of the glass as a cooling whiff of smoke gives way to dried flowers, cedar and exotic spice. It flows across the palate with textures of pure silk, finessed and graceful, with depths of intense red and black fruits that slowly saturate. The 2019 turns inward upon itself through the finish, tannic and long with notes of licorice and cacao bean. This is a serious rendition of Pianrosso that will require patience to enjoy fully. That said, it’s sure to be worth the wait." Vinous

"Pianrosso is a selection from the vineyard of the same name: 11 hectares in the lower south-east of Montalcino. The grapes were harvested between 11 September and 4 October 2019, which suggests a classic vintage. It shines with its earl grey tea aroma, combined with dark cherry, cinnamon, liquorice and a floral bouquet. The fruit character is very dark and precise; marvellous in this vintage. Full-bodied, dense and velvety with firm, long yet integrated acidity, it tapers off on the finish, but this is a sign of its elegance." Decanter

"The Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso opens with a broad and all-encompassing bouquet of dried cherries or cherry pie with crust, plum cake and rose potpourri. There are obvious oak tones, but they fade into underbrush, grilled herbs and the generous texture of this wine. Even the 15% alcohol content disappears into the fleshy fruitiness of the wine. Certainly this is a wine that needs more bottle age to develop the suppleness and beautiful freshness of such an important Sangiovese." Wine Advocate

"A cornerstone of the typology, we are in the south-east region of the denomination, a stone's throw from Castelnuovo dell'Abate. Rich nose, notes of red mulberries, then rosemary and hints of Peranzana olives. The flavour is spicy, with a return of red mulberry and iodised nuances." Luca Gardini

Piccolomini's most famous wine comes from a south-west-facing vineyard in the Castelnuovo dell'Abate subzone at an altitude of around 350 metres with mainly Galestro soils. Pianrosso is considered the estate's most representative vineyard and was replanted in the 1980s. The Brunello of the same name is weightier and richer than the estate's normal Brunello and also somewhat more mineral. Aromas of red berries, camphor and tobacco combine with roses in this fragrant, full-bodied red wine. The soft palate is concentrated yet elegant, with raspberry jam, cherry preserved in spirits, liquorice and coffee beans. There is also a subtle salty minerality and fine-grained tannins that bring it to a long and dramatic final. For a wine with such power, this is a wonderful symmetry. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, elegant ruby red colour. Restrained on the nose, still, cold smoke, burnt sage. Savoury on the palate with a rich entry and progression, polished and with creamy tannins, needs some time in the glass, then comes in several layers, powerful, rich and full-bodied, muscular and opulent, fiery." Falstaff

"Inviting bouquet of a potpourri of red forest fruits, spices and dried flowers; harmonious texture, fine-grained tannins, invigorating acidity, the long finish is extremely fruity and elegant." Vinum

"The 2020 is rather lavish, verging on heavy though not without fascination. Overtly fragrant, it exudes rose potpourri, cardamom, balsamic herbs and caramel. Plush and full, the palate hinges around strawberry compote modestly countered by soft acidity, with tannins that are persistently dusty. This will appeal to those seeking a big, opulent Brunello." Decanter

"The bouquet reveals dark fruit aromas, cherry liqueur, brandied plum and sweet crème de cassis. This is a thickly grained Brunello with a soft, richly textured core. I recommend a medium-term drinking window." Wine Advocate

"Freshly split pine, tobacco and stone dust gives way to dried strawberries and mint nuances as the 2020 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso slowly blossoms in the glass. Silken and serene, this excels through its acidity, cool-toned and fresh, enlivening the 2020s core of rich wild berry fruits. Hints of blood orange add further gravitas as it finishes with a surprisingly juicy character, leaving edgy tannins and a pleasantly bitter concentration. This wild child will require cellaring to come fully into focus, yet I'm incredibly excited to revisit it in another three to five years." Vinous

"Intense, vibrant aromas of strawberries and raspberries, together with cola and flowery notes. Milk and mint nuances, too. Shows a lot of licorice elegance and blood-orange freshness on both the nose and palate with firm, velvety tannins and well-packed, brilliant acidity and a polished finish. Good aftertaste and amazing potential. Very classic." James Suckling

The fruit for this wine comes from four unique vineyards at different altitudes, all located in different parts of the appellation. Le Ragnaies Brunello 2020 is a tour de force of Sangiovese that traverses the entire continuum of Sangiovese. It begins auspiciously with wild cherry, followed by pressed blue flowers, spices and floral earth. In addition to these typical tones, there are also cherry, blackcurrant and other classic Sangiovese flavours, followed by notes of dried mint and Mediterranean herbs in the impressive final. The lasting impression of this very special Brunello is its brilliance and purity, which delight us every year, especially with the wines from Le Ragnaie. SUPERIORE.DE

"This wine is a blend of vineyards in the south-east of Montalcino and in the north, as well as from the high-altitude vineyards of the estate in the centre of the region, and is a panoramic rendition of the Le Ragnaie vintage. It is influenced by the estate's preference for an early harvest, emphasising freshness and a medium-weight frame. Pomegranate is nuanced by rose, tobacco and forest floor. It is light on its feet with an elegant, straightforward backbone and has just the right amount of flesh on its bones." Decanter

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is incredibly fresh, combining wild strawberry and sweet herbal tones with stone dust and a hint of wilted violets. It is a model of purity, soft and round, yet focused with ripe wild berry flavours that soak up saline minerals towards the end. The finish is long and colourful but still fresh, leaving a salty tang and edgy tannins to frame the experience." Vinous

"Le Ragnaie's style is classic and emphasises transparency and freshness. His Brunello di Montalcino 2020 is a blend of fruit from different parcels. The majority of the blend comes from the vineyards in the immediate vicinity of the winery at high altitudes. What stands out is the focus and energy of the bouquet, with delicate berry and floral notes and even a hint of fresh mint. It has a polished texture." Wine Advocate

Andrea Cortonesi's Brunello di Montalcino 2020 shows its best side right from the start; it is a Brunello of profound beauty, intensity and complexity. The nose is characterised by a generous dose of primary fruit, primarily cherry and blackberry. This is complemented by wonderfully balanced secondary flavours from the oak, reminiscent of spices, cinnamon and dark smoke. On the palate, it explodes from the starting line and delivers a steady pace throughout. Subtle notes of spice and barbecue smoke add further facets to the impressive finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"It starts with an abundance of lavender, cinnamon and chocolate and develops into a palate of macerated cherry and blackberry coulis. The tannins layer up but are pliable. The warming alcohol also rises. The finish is infused with Mediterranean herbs." Decanter

"A compact and fresh Brunello 2020 with the character of red cherries, plums and peaches. Medium body, fine tannins and a tangy finish. It should be given two or three years to open up and soften, but it is already crisp and fresh. Simply delicious." James Suckling

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2020 is enchanting. Youthfully shy, it shows a minty freshness and a wild herbal thrust that gives way to bright cherry berry fruit accompanied by a hint of worn leather. This wine is energetic and lively, yet elegant, with crunchy wild berries and a cascade of sweet spices underscored by zesty acidity. The 2020 is tannic and powerful, but still fresh, with a finish of tart cranberry and sour citrus that shrivels the cheeks and leaves the palate wanting more. This is a wild vintage of Uccelliera's Brunello di Montalcino. It is structured for the long haul and is already a pleasure to drink." Vinous

Andrea Cortonesi's Brunello di Montalcino 2019 shows its best side right from the start. It combines richness, maturity and finesse to create a model of total balance. At first glance, it is dark, earthy and herbal, but with time in the glass, a massive wave of black cherries, raspberries, sage and a grounding note of undergrowth emerges. In the mouth, it coats everything it touches with a silky, cool texture that gives way to ripe red and black fruits complemented by spiced citrus, while nuances of lavender and tobacco develop. While the wine feels round and supple, fine-grained tannins slowly creep in, reminding you how young it really is. A hint of baker's chocolate, liquorice and a touch of tart blackberry resonate on the long final... SUPERIORE.DE

"Multifaceted bouquet with aromas of dark berries, leather and chocolate; the attack is full-bodied, the tannins perfectly integrated, develops full of esprit towards an extremely fruity final." Vinum

"Ripe ruby red with a brick-coloured rim. Fairly developed, ripe and brooding cherry fruit nose with hints of tobacco. The palate is much more backward but well put together, with plenty of chewy tannins that don't overpower the fruit. It's an old-school wine, and I'd wait another two years before approaching it. Very long and captivating." Jancis Robinson

"It opens with aromas reminiscent of cedar and pine forest, undergrowth and leather. The palate is full and powerful, but more square than round. A compact core of dark cherry is surrounded by chewy, generous tannins. A hint of dryness from the wood comes through. Still, this wine feels very real, and the underlying acidity provides a brightening effect." Decanter

"Perfumed and attractive with flavours of black cherries and berries, as well as lavender and rosemary flowers. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a juicy finish. Needs to age in the bottle to mellow." James Suckling

"Dense and muscular, this red delivers a broad swath of cherry, plum and floral flavors, supplemented by iron, eucalyptus and sanguine notes. Tightens up on the finish, leaving a compact impression, yet this is persistent overall." Wine Spectator

"The Uccelliera 2019 Brunello di Montalcino offers ripe fruit, a hint of cooked blackberries and pomegranate juice. Together with oak spice and dried bay leaf, there is a hint of creaminess in the centre of the palate, reminiscent of cheese rind or matured chèvre with a crust of black pepper and thyme. This note fades, however, and the wine returns to dried cherry with a medicinal or herbal flavour. There is a lot going on. The wine needs more time in the bottle to work through the fine, chalky tannins. It's already elegant now, but it will improve." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a profound and intense wine that shoots from the glass with a wave of autumnal spices, crushed cherries, cedar shavings and soaked plums underpinned by pine notes. This wine is highly structured, elegant and refined, with a dense wave of ripe forest fruits accompanied by vibrant acidity underscored by orange and balsamic herbs. It finishes grippy and lingering with a black hole of tension and a sweet and sour sensation that lingers on and on as crisp tannins reverberate within. The 2019 is youthfully backward today, but its balance is undeniable, especially as it has opened up over twenty-four hours. It is an absolute pleasure to taste this wine. Bury the 2019 deep in your cellar." Vinous

2019 was a strong year in Montalcino and this vintage shows balance and proud character. Opens with bright cherry fruit, menthol, balsamic herbs, minerals and soft earthy tones. On the palate, mint and sage form the backdrop to bright cherry with a hint of sweet spice. It's feminine and remarkably pretty, showing red fruits with savoury minerals and inner flowers that accumulate towards the finish. The tannins are round and nuanced, classically dry but in no way fatiguing or austere. This symmetry and great length are simply fascinating. SUPERIORE.DE

"Founded by the Mazzocchi family in the 1980s, who restructured the estate and planted 3 hectares of vineyards. Since 2017, the winery has been owned by the brothers Riccardo and Renzo Cotarella, who work as Oenologist. The 2019 shows its wonderfully fragrant side. In addition to raspberries and undergrowth, there are nuances of strawberry trees that are reminiscent of the vegetation of this high-altitude location. The core consists of unadulterated red fruit. Deliciously tart redcurrants and cranberries are framed by strong, youthful tannins. I love the bite and tangy acidity in this wine." Decanter

"Lots of dark fruits with dried lavender, followed by allspice and a hint of citrus. Medium body with round and chewy tannins. Healthy and muscular." James Suckling

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino wafts from the glass with an airy, minty freshness, while dusty dried flowers, strawberries and pine shavings join in. The Brunello di Montalcino presents itself with soft textures and cool mineral notes that complement its seductively ripe red berry fruit. It retains a fabulous energy throughout. Despite its classic tannic profile and lingering tart wild berry concentration, it leaves your mouth watering. The 2019 from Le Macioche has a wonderful combination of power and purity. This winery has raised the bar with every vintage." Vinous

"This Brunello combines vivid cherry, strawberry and chocolate aromas and flavors with savory notes of eucalyptus, spice, mineral and tobacco. Solidly structured yet balanced, with fine-grained tannins shoring up the lengthy finish." Wine Spectator

The Cotarella family's Le Macioche Brunello 2020 shows balance and character, opening with bright cherry fruit, menthol, balsamic herbs, minerals and soft earthy tones. On the palate, the wine unfolds with lightness, silky and refined, with a pure presentation of ripe red berries accompanied by violet-coloured flowers and a hint of leather. Although grippy and structured, it remains energetic and fresh on the final, leaving a hint of violets and lavender. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2020 comes from 25-year-old vines, trained in Guyot. It shows an initial mineral note of crushed aspirin from Galestro soils, which sets the tone for elegant fruit and lightly toasted spices. This vintage offers a medium to full-bodied texture with soft tannins and lingering dark cherry flavours." Wine Advocate

"Rich and intense, the 2020 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a burst of crushed rocks, grilled herbs, brown spices and floral underbrush. It is velvety and seamless, with soft textures and ripe red berry fruits that gain tension towards the finish, while notes of sour citrus and a hint of dark chocolate add excitement. The 2020 is pleasantly full-bodied and long, leaving edgy tannins and a certain primary concentration without sacrificing freshness. This is one of the more structured and inward Brunellos of the vintage, with the balance to evolve beautifully." Vinous

"It has a nice firmness yet exudes juicy plum fruit, along with undertones of chocolate and orange. Medium body, creamy texture and delicious finish. Needs another two or three years to develop. Drinkable after 2027, but already lush and lively now." James Suckling

The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino (of which only 4,000 bottles were made) offers great balance and a very pretty personality, based on bright cherries, some earthiness and crushed flowers on the nose. The wine is very supple and integrated, especially in terms of its polished tannins, and there is of course a wonderfully perky spot of bright acidity at the end. A beautiful wine full of verve and grace with waves of red and black berries over its savoury and mineral core. A rich, grippy tannin accompanies the juicy final, which ends with delicate notes of almonds and roses. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2018 shows a medium-dark garnet red colour with a beautiful ruby-red sheen that underlines the careful extraction of the wine, which is neither too light nor too dark. The Sangiovese, with its aromas of wild berries, cherries, blue flowers and earthy roots, is given enough room to breathe and develop. Secondary flavours of spices and tar lend it aromatic weight and complexity. The fresh acidity and taut structure complete the palate. All in all, this is a very neat and compact wine that should develop well with a short period of bottle ageing. Only 4,000 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"Flavours of bark, walnuts, dark berries, cigar box and roasted espresso. Full-bodied with firm tannins. Muscular structure. Dark fruity, dense and brooding at the moment." James Suckling

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino exudes a dusty and incredibly beautiful blend of red plums, dried roses, worn leather and a hint of camphor. The palate is soft and supple, elegant and seamless, with purple-coloured red fruits underscored by salty mineral notes and spice. The finish is powerful, long and structured, with primary concentration mingling with youthful grippy tannins that create a chewy feel on the final." Vinous

"This tiny winery is located in the Sesta area - the wild south-east of Montalcino. The wines of Sesta di Sopra capture the fragrant Mediterranean vegetation and generous warmth - even in 2018. Violet, plum and cinnamon scents give way to exotic forest herbs and even porcini mushroom nuances. It is one of the more voluptuous representatives of the vintage, offering lush fruit framed by firm but seductively structured tannins. An appetising minerality pervades and the lingering juiciness invites you to take another sip." Decanter

Here is another outstanding 2019 Brunello from a winery that is still considered an insider tip given its small size and limited annual production. Medium, bright ruby red colour. Exotic aromas of minerals and citrus fruits, reminiscent of red cherries, blood oranges and Asian spices, with a floral nuance that gains strength with air. The palate is supple and expansive, with sweet flavours of red cherries and dark plums carried by a powerful acidity. Densely packed, at once fleshy and broad, but also lively and precise. On the strikingly long finish, it shows excellent power and cut, characterised by youthful, dusty tannins and a hint of candied violets. As is so often the case, this is one of the best Brunellos of the vintage and still completely under the radar of many Sangiovese lovers. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense fruity bouquet, ripe red fruit, coffee. Juicy, creamy, dense, modern, intense, concentrated, creamy frame, warm final." Weinwisser

"The Brunello is made from the oldest vines, a single vineyard of one hectare planted in 1992. The warmth of south-east Montalcino is perceived in the aromas of Mediterranean shrubs and macerated cherries. A hint of nutmeg and iron gives the wine an added flavour. A full, shapely and enveloping Brunello that finds balance and lightness in its generous proportions. On the palate, it reveals a wonderful purity of black and redcurrants, and the compact, powdery tannins leave a clean finish. The final shows intense orange flavours." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is simply stunning. It rises from the glass with a bouquet that combines minty herbs and hints of cocoa with sweet spices and blackberries. The palate is lapped by a texture of pure silk, introducing waves of polished red fruits and oranges, while rosy, floral notes build towards the finish. Although tannic and classically dry, the 2019 retains a lovely inner freshness, leaving a pleasant bitter tang and salty liquorice notes that slowly fade away. This is a fabulous result from Sesta di Sopra and an excellent representation of the Castelnuovo dell'Abate terroir." Vinous

"Subtle and refined on the nose with fresh flowers, sweet berries, orange peel and red cherries. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins that run the length of the wine. Racy and focused with finesse and drive." James Suckling