PREMIUM SALE | Montalcino

When we discovered this winery by chance in the early 2000s, we were struck at first sight by the modesty and purism of the Biliorsi family. This is still the case today, here they remain true to themselves and their philosophy and in good years bring just 10,000 bottles of a "somewhat different" Brunello into the cellar.

Deep dark ruby red, on the nose small black berries, cedar wood, forest floor and a fine nutty roasted aroma. The palate is complex and powerful, with earthy-rustic nuances and a complex mixture of dark fruit, precious woods, a fine plum note and some chocolate. Very intense, impulsive and long and not at all for lovers of polished standard wines. SUPERIORE.DE

"Presents itself with a fine cherry, floral aroma; juicy on the palate, the acidity perfectly integrated, nice polish, elegant and with good length." Vinum

"The organic Fornacina 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is a dark and savory wine with black fruit, exotic spice, rusty nail and dry rose petal. There are hints of mild astringency, but the tannins are on track for near or medium-term integration. In fact, this wine is best consumed in the next couple of years while those dark fruit tones are still intact. Exactly 8,188 bottles were released." Wine Advocate

"Savory and a little reductive to begin with but then opens up with aromas of wet earth, oregano, sweet berries, cherries and licorice. Medium-bodied with firm, chewy tannins. Well structured throughout with an expressive finish. Better from 2024." James Suckling

The Brunello di Montalcino 2018 from controlled organic cultivation shows its graceful and delicate side, with wild cherries, blue flowers and warm earthiness. On the palate, the wine is silky and supple, with a hint of crushed minerals and limestone. The fresh acidity makes for a long but wonderfully elegant finish. The final is surprisingly fresh, almost juicy, with a subtle tug of youthful tannins and a hint of liquorice that slowly fades. Not a powerhouse, but a beautifully balanced Brunello of the vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"It delivers cherry and strawberry fruit layered with earth and spice, supported by compact, vibrant tannins. This red has calmed down with aeration but still needs time to integrate as it still leans towards the dry side in balance." Wine Spectator

"A soft and refined Brunello from 2018 with creamy tannins and a flattering texture. It is medium-bodied with beautiful fruit and a fresh finish. Crushed mussels at the end." James Suckling

"The nose is predominantly earthy, mineral and stony, but a powerful herbaceousness and delicate, just-ripe cherries provide balance. On the palate, fruit goes on the offensive against a persistent earthiness that's empowered by chalky tannins and buzzy acid." Wine Enthusiast

"The Poggio Landi 2018 Brunello di Montalcino from organic farming manages to emphasise the bright fruit, which is not always the case with other wines, especially in this difficult vintage. Red cherry, raspberry and blackcurrant are at the centre of this wine. These tones are framed by light spice, pressed rose and candied orange peel. This wine stands out from the crowd thanks to its lively primary intensity and transparent Sangiovese characteristics. The finish is lean and streamlined." Wine Advocate

Full, rich ruby red colour. Refined bouquet of raspberry, pomegranate and a hint of white pepper. Full-bodied and multi-layered on the palate with a very classic Sangiovese style, powerful, intense and yet very harmonious. With its noble tannin, it strides confidently into a long, fascinatingly deep finish. A classic and contrasting expression of the vintage with a little "more" of the texture and power that characterises the family winery from the Castelnuovo dell'Abate area. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sour and cooked cherries, oranges, milk chocolate and red licorice. Fruity and succulent with a medium to full body and creamy tannins. Ripe and velvety finish." James Suckling

"Sleek and focused, with a supple feel to the cherry, raspberry, hibiscus and chalky mineral flavors. Well-balanced, finishing with a crisp feel now that should stretch out nicely in time." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino opens like a spice box full of exotic treasures. Steeped cherries, crushed cranberries, violet pastille, spiced blood orange and dusty rose can all be found as it opens in the glass. It splashes across the palate, full of energy and juicy in style, with a seductive core of ripe wild berry fruits and inner florals. This doesn’t miss a beat, finishing amazingly fresh and vibrant, with nuances of blackberry and sour citrus framed by a subtle staining of fine tannins. Fanti really outdid themselves; the 2018 Brunello is a beauty." Vinous

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino immediately reminds you of the austerity and brawn inherent to this important category of wine. Brunello is released five years after the harvest precisely to allow complexity to develop in the bottle. That careful evolution has transpired nicely here. The wine shows dark plum and dried blackberry in a leading role, with spice, tar, tobacco and campfire ash at the back. The tannins are present but on the soft side, and the wine weighs in with medium-rich fruit weight." Wine Advocate

In the classic Brunello vintage, the 2018 edition is a fine example of the Ciacci style. Opulent, deep bouquet of small red berries, plus multi-layered hints of crushed flowers, tobacco and cherry pits. Very resonant and expressive on the palate, the fine tannins and a well-dosed acidity lead into a soft, very open finish. All in all, we are impressed by the beautiful harmony and balance, which is already a great pleasure to drink at a young age. SUPERIORE.DE

"Smells seductively of raspberries and flowers; compact texture, the tannins supple and of excellent quality, the acidity provides the vitality, the final promising and of great length, but should still mature." Vinum

"With a crisp, beguiling bouquet, red currants, cranberries and tobacco, behind it also delicately herbaceous-ethereal nuances such as eucalyptus and laurel. Very juicy and finesse-rich, full of crackling tension and yet so seductive, stylish and punchy. In the spicy final it scores with its subtle and refined nature." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby red with a sparkling core. In the nose fine fruit, of wild strawberries, blood oranges, rose hips, underlaid with a fine floral scent and liquorice. Radiant on the palate with a hearty, creamy fruit core, spreads beautifully across the tongue, spreads supreme drinking pleasure!" Falstaff

Dark and brooding, the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino takes its time to give off hints of mocha before opening with a blend of dried red fruits, cloves and rosemary. The wine is surprisingly pure and elegant as ripe red and black fruits pour over a core of vibrant acidity. The 2018 leaves a lingering tension on the palate as fine-grained tannins penetrate deeply and hints of tart wild berries and a touch of cocoa slowly fade." Vinous

"Dense and brooding, with aromas of plums, cherries, earth, menthol and tobacco. On the austere side today, with buried fruit and dominant tannins, but this has fine balance and extended length." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino produces beautiful results if you choose to drink it now, or if you cellar it a little longer. It offers immediate intensity and complexity with a red and purple berry fruit attack that follows tarry spices, campfire ash, liquorice and rusty nails. These savoy tones are balanced with the wine's elegant, medium-weight finish. And the tannins are seamlessly integrated. The winemaking team has done a good job in a difficult vintage." Wine Advocate

"Roasted herbs, walnuts, olives, dried cherries and balsamic on the nose with hints of leather and sage. It is full-bodied with firm, finely meshed tannins. Creamy and very well integrated, with depth and class. Try it after 2024." James Suckling

The "base" of the Ciacci Piccolomini house, another excellence of this winery. Great tension on the nose, red currant, nuances of laurel and eucalyptus. Juiciness and tension on the palate, iodine-rich tannins, fruity-balsamic finish." Luca Gardini

Pelagrilli 2017 is an open, accessible Brunello. On the nose, inviting berry aromas, facets of spices, maquis and flowers. In the drink, aromas of dark cherry, plum, smoke and spices. With its juice, fullness and fine-grained tannins, it shows its considerable personality until the supple final. SUPERIORE.DE

"The nose pleases with nuances of red berries, enveloped by violet and tobacco notes; compact construction with well-integrated tannins, perfectly integrated acidity, excellent evolution, rich in finesse and with storage potential. Goes very well with game dishes." Vinum

"Shiny, intense ruby garnet. Intense, expressive nose of ripe raspberries, plums and liquorice. Gripping tannin on the palate, accentuated ripe fruit notes on the palate, seems quite brittle on the final, slightly alcoholic on the finish." Falstaff

"The Siro Pacenti 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Pelagrilli is a robust and powerful expression with dark fruit nuances that transition to a dense core and a tightly woven inner fabric with more enriched black fruit and spice. Pelagrilli has a beautifully soft and open-knit character, and the tannins are well managed to show no rough edges or bitterness. What stands out best in this wine is the sheer density. Built like a tank, it will embrace long cellar aging." Wine Advocate

"Beautiful aromas of cherries, plums and fresh flowers with some oranges follow through to a full body with round and chewy tannins that are polished and refined for the hot 2017 vintage. Flavorful and fresh finish. Remains in check and toned. Drink in 2023 and onwards." James Suckling

"Beautiful version 2017 also for Brunello from the youngest vineyards, from a sustainable viticulture. Nose that shows small red fruits, pomegranate above all, then fresh thyme and nice mentholated nuance in the closing. The mouthfeel is equally mentholated, with a crispy and taut mouthfeel." Luca Gardini

Elegant, bright ruby red colour. Seductive aromas of orange zest, ripe cherries and roses on the nose, with an anchovy aftertaste. Concentrated on the palate, it opens up with many layers and beautiful minerality, balanced, powerful and yet elegant. The long final is very juicy and well structured, a delicious introduction to the world of Piancornello. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino shows a lean to medium-bodied style with light cherry, cassis and violet fruit. The bouquet is quite forward and not too complex. The wine delivers bright fruit and a delicious, approachable style." Wine Advocate

"I like the intensity of the flavours of dark plums, oyster shells, tar, dried flowers and chocolate. Rich and flavourful with a full body and muscular tannins, robust but by no means heavy." James Suckling

Bright ruby red with a light rim. Equally bright and very complex bouquet of wild berries, strawberries, dried fruits, tar and balsamic herbs. On the palate, a very attractive, supple texture, again a beautiful red berry fruit in the drink, plus traces of blackcurrant, blueberry and liquorice. In the long, squeaky clean finish, traces of well-integrated light wood and a very appealing silkiness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange highlights. Brooding but ripe on the nose. Lots of juicy cherry fruit and crisp tannins. A blockbuster, but a finely balanced one." Jancis Robinson

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is rich and haunting dark, with masses of cherry and raspberry sauce giving way to sweet violet flowers. The palate is velvety, with balsamic spice and red and black fruits lifted by cool acidity. It leaves a hint of primary concentration balanced by a touch of sour citrus, and finishes with smooth tannins and a strong power. There's a lot going on here, and it has the ability to age over the medium term." Vinous

"Aromas of fresh raspberries, sour cherries, lemons, walnuts and vanilla beans. It is juicy and flavourful with a medium body and creamy tannins. The tangy fruit transitions into creamy chocolate. Wonderfully drinkable." James Suckling

"A juicy style for the vintage, with aromas of cherries, raspberries, flowers, graphite and spices. Balanced and lively, with bright acidity and refined tannins for support. Shows lovely length." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino shows dark fruit and oak spice and tends towards the more powerful and voluminous side of the Brunello spectrum. The wine is open-knit and approachable. The finish shows a softer side with polished tannins." Wine Advocate

"The nose begins with a shooting star of sweet candied cherry and vanilla before it burns up and leaves behind a dark, savory sky of coffee, old leather and burnt caramel. The sun rises on the palate, with strawberry and blood orange notes joining the resurgent cherry. Compressed tannins and vigorous acidity provide structure." Wine Enthusiast

The vineyard on the western side of the Montalcino hills is so secluded that you can enjoy the starry sky to the full without being disturbed. It is therefore not surprising that this supple, very classic Brunello bears the name "Sky of Ulysses". As is well known, Odysseus had the ability to navigate the seas without a compass and by simply orientating himself by the stars.

Deep dark ruby with light-coloured inclusions. The bouquet is a potpourri of aromas that unfold almost endlessly, with floral notes of light roses and white flowers alongside black and red fruits. On the palate, power, flavour and a freshness that, together with the well-proportioned tannins, suggest a harmonious and exciting development! SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, rich ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Opens on the nose with intense, quite mature fruit notes of dried plums, preserved cherries, liquorice and some leather. Also reveals itself on the palate with clearly matured tones, grippy tannins, then clear malty components in the final, already appears very mature." Falstaff

"Deep, youthful ruby red colour. Deep raspberry fruit nose with mineral notes. Lots of concentrated, juicy fruit, yet complex, multi-layered and with gripping tannins. Has everything you need, yet retains an elegant weight on the palate. Impeccably balanced. Irresistible." Jancis Robinson

"The Brunello di Montalcino Cielo d'Ulisse 2018 smells of violets and roses as well as dried blueberries and a hint of smoke in the glass. It feels silky and cool, with a racy acidity that accompanies the tart wild berry fruit. Blue and purple flowers, liquorice and chalky tannins accompany the 2018, which finishes lightly structured and long. Podere Le Ripi has managed to maintain the balance and energy in this wine. The Cielo d'Ulisse comes from the vineyards of Podere Le Ripi in the south-west of Montalcino, but the vines are surrounded by woods that balance out the warmth of the location." Vinous

"The Podere le Ripi 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Cielo d'Ulisse shows a spicy character with cloves and white pepper. These notes are faint, but they help to support the dark layers of dried cherries and blackcurrants. There is a hint of sour fruit on the finish of this medium-bodied Brunello. The structure of the wine is lean and fine." Wine Advocate

"The nose begins savory and earthy before sweet cherries and bitter espresso start to sparkle. The palate is full of black cherries and figs, with a bolder coffee flavor reappearing on the finish. The tannins are chalky and dense, while marvelously intense acidity persists through the finish." Wine Enthusiast

Lisini's vineyards are located between Sant'Angelo in Colle and Castelnuovo dell'Abate on the inner edge of the Sesta area and are cleansed by the constant breeze from the Tuscan coast. The stony soils with a significant proportion of limestone and the altitude of over 300 metres help to maintain the freshness of the wines. The 2018 is wonderfully fragrant, almost exotic. Plump red fruits and sweet summer herbs fill the mouth, but instead of being heavy, it is balanced and transparent. The powdery tannins are fine and lead to a long, maritime finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep, shiny ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Very closed and backward on the nose. Cherry on the palate with a slight hint of dried fruit, but much more convincing than it sounds. Long yet restrained on the finish, with fine-grained tannins that only reveal their complex depth at the very end. Skilfully made, and there is more to come." Jancis Robinson

"Warm, fragrant aromas of red berries and flowers open the round; elegant attack, but also with character, melting and good length. Pleasing with its elegant yet powerful texture." Vinum

"Very classic Sangiovese nose, dark cherries, sour cherry (Marasca), fine wood, very classic style on the palate too, incredibly juicy with fine spice and salty hints, compact but by no means rustic, rather balanced and with a lot of structure. Compact juiciness. Wonderful presence, noble elegance, fantastically integrated acidity and tannins. Beautiful piquancy. Stony and firm style. Long-lasting." Weinwisser

"Like a kid in a sweet shop, it's a pleasure to take in the candy, medicinal cherry, blueberry compote and liquorice aromas of the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino. While the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is silky and elegant, it is also racy and full of character, as the red and black berries are complemented by notes of cinnamon, cloves and a bitter hint of cocoa. The 2018 finishes powerful and long, but only slightly structured, which suggests a certain amount of ageing, but also that it is showing off all its skills. Almost a minute passes and nuances of violet pastilles and red sweets still linger." Vinous

"Strawberry liqueur with herbal notes on the nose. Juicy and refreshing, modern in style, but promising for the coming years." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is a wine of medium volume and intensity with dark fruits, ripe cherries, black plums, spices and sweet floral earth. This theme of sweetness continues on the soft, lightly structured palate. The wine is ready to drink in the short to medium term; the tannins are round and ready, and it finishes with bright acidity." Wine Advocate

"Rich and deep, with base notes of plum and loamy earth balancing the flavours of cherry, hibiscus and eucalyptus. Dense, with muscular tannins and a lively acidity to support it. The long aftertaste is reminiscent of earth and Mediterranean scrub." Wine Spectator

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Fragrant, inviting nose of ripe wild berries, candle wax, fine spicy tones and some liquorice. On the palate, with pithy tannins that beautifully envelop the clear fruit, balanced and elegant." Falstaff

"Dark fruit aromas stretch across the nose but don't entirely mask hints of vanilla, pencil shavings and a salty, peppery stoniness. On the palate, the vanilla escalates to initially further emphasize the dark fruits, before new undertones of bitter orange and meaty umami elements emerge. Acid zips around dense tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Sant'Angelo in Colle, a wine of excellent juiciness that expresses Lisini's great craftsmanship. Notes of dogwood, then chinotto and juniper. The palate has juicy tannins, beautiful citrus-olfactory nuances and a fruity return." Luca Gardini

This powerful and long-lasting Brunello is royal; only the best grapes from our there own vineyards are used for this Selezione. It perfectly embodies the powerful elegance of the great Tuscan red wines. Ruby red in colour, with an expansive bouquet of rosehip, lilac and spices. You can taste the dense dark berry fruit and a fine minerality. Roasted and tobacco flavours accompany the firm, juicy and long-lasting finish. SUPERIORE.DE

The Paesaggio Inatteso selection comes from Camigliano's 3.5-hectare vineyard "La Magia", which has mineral and calcareous soils. The 2015 edition presents itself more robust and intense than the classic Annata of the house. Bright ruby red. In the nose cherry, raspberry, spice and tobacco aromas, on the palate taut, precise and full of personality. The tannins are soft and well integrated, making it an opulent, powerful and long-lasting pleasure even when young. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of crisp wild berries and violets, underscored by balsamic notes; precise texture with cut and length. Classically noble Sangiovese." Vinum

"Elegant, brilliant ruby garnet. Very fresh and fruity nose, of juicy, freshly plucked cherries, some raspberry and pomegranate. Round and smooth in the base and flow, shows also in the mouth a lot of present berry fruit, polished tannin." Falstaff

"Good dark red. Perfumed red cherry, raspberry and mint on the nose, plus hints of potpourri. Clean flavors of red fruits and spices show a restrained sweetness and a creamy mouthfeel on the long back end. Offers greater delineation and increasing pliancy with air." Vinous

"Enticing flavors of black cherry, plum, iron, leather, earth and tobacco mark this red. Dense tannins and bright acidity lay down structural support. Tips toward the dry side in the balance despite the persistent finish." Wine Spectator

"The purity and focus to this young Brunello is certainly impressive with crushed berries and flowers, as well as burnt orange peel on the nose. Full body. Firm and silky tannins with an intense backbone and focus. A seriously structured and balanced red. Drink after 2022." James Suckling

"This wine sees fruit from a three-hectare site (at 300 meters above sea level) with loamy sand soils. This is a very special wine with a unique set of aromas. It shows pronounced Mediterranean accents of rosemary, lavender and dried basil leaf. The wine's fruit profile is also front and center with wild berry and dried cassis. The mouthfeel is silky, lean and topped off by well integrated tannins." Wine Advocate

Sandro Chias Annata presents itself taut, forward and downright bold in the glass. On the palate, its natural richness and lushness of fruit is convincing, complemented by varietal elements of wild cherry, blue flowers and soft earth. Then, in quick succession, secondary aromas of tobacco, cedar and cinnamon surprise, giving complexity and personality to the wine built up in many deep layers. This Brunello has wonderful potential for further bottle ageing, but it is already an absolute delight and the quality of the fruit and its length make it irresistible. SUPERIORE.DE

"Delicate bouquet of red berries, flowers and undergrowth; juicy in the mouth, compact, the tannins robust, nice melting, fine-meshed tannins, good length." Vinum

"To the northwest of Montalcino, Castello Romitorio’s vineyards are surrounded by thick woods receiving moderate sun exposure. The relatively cool setting was an advantage in 2017. Well put together with a graceful flow, this Brunello echoes its setting and opens with pronounced cedar and evocative forest floor accents. Neither heavy nor over-concentrated, the palate is replete with pulpy red berries. There is a succulence to the fruit and a silkiness to the texture, and nuances of pulverised stone weave throughout." Decanter

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is dusty, dark and floral at first, but with time, it becomes exotic and spicy. Black cherries lifted by minty herbs and camphor give way to floral undergrowth and tobacco as the 2017 gains in volume with each swirl of the glass. It’s silky-smooth and pliant yet shows remarkable purity and cooling acidity, as you perceive its red and hints of blue fruit slowly drenching the palate, leaving salty minerals and a coating of primary concentration. The long, penetrating finale mixes fine tannins and nuances of sour citrus in a powerful yet wonderfully balanced expression of the Romitorio vineyards." Vinous

"The Castello Romitorio 2017 Brunello di Montalcino comes from an estate that is quickly becoming a leader in a special niche of the Montalcino market. The wine is modern and soft, showing lots of contained ripeness and creaminess, yet it successfully embraces the fundamentals of the appellation and Sangiovese, thanks to its bright acidity and finely tuned structure. Few wines reach this level of precision, especially in a challenging vintage such as this." Wine Advocate

The grapes for Fornacinas Riserva come from a small 5 hectare plot and the result offers a wonderfully firm structure with plenty of warmth and harmony. On the palate, it convinces with textural richness and wonderful secondary aromas that come with three years of oak ageing. The initially crisp tannins will stand another year or two of bottle ageing to become softer and more relaxed. A top-year classic with a wonderfully intense and long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is very fine-tannined and silky with cherry and orange-peel aromas and flavors. It’s medium-to full-bodied with lots of berry, earth, walnut and dried-flower character at the end. From organically grown grapes. Very attractive now, better in a few years." James Suckling

"Traditional stone farmhouses in Tuscany always have a bread oven, or "forno" in Italian, somewhere near the entrance of the home. That wood-burning oven is a symbol of family warmth, inclusiveness and home. I'd like to think that this is the spirit with which Fornacina (the "little oven") is named. The estate's 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva (a certified-organic wine) is a bottle I happily recommend to those looking for under-the-radar names in Montalcino. I love the delicate and bright nature of this wine and the subtle manner in which the wine's acidity and lean-bodied texture enlivens the palate." Wine Advocate

Bright, intense ruby red colour. The appealing aroma is full of raspberry, red cherry, liquorice and a hint of musk. Tense on the palate with firm acidity and a good backbone, with wonderful spice and a fine, sweet silkiness. The complexity unfolds harmoniously in the long finish, with further maturity it will reach its full greatness, very serious and endearing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. On the nose, aromas of kitchen herbs, candied red berries, a hint of apricot, then floral notes of Christmas biscuits. Juicy, clear and balanced on the palate, with polished tannins, tightly woven, the fruit is beautifully emphasised, fun, balanced final." Falstaff

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is dark and balsamic in the glass, with rich notes of mocha, plum sauce, grilled herbs and crushed ash stone. Silky, almost creamy to the touch, it floods the palate with mocha-coloured red fruits and rum-soaked sultanas, complemented by a hint of tobacco towards the finish. The 2018 rejuvenates with a mentholated freshness and grippy tannins that initially engage the senses but then slowly release them, allowing hints of balsamic and exotic spice to linger. This unique vintage of Pian delle Vigne has great appeal, but also a structure that will carry it through medium-term ageing." Vinous

"Intense chocolate, hazelnut, blackcurrant, cherry and spiced plum on the nose with a hint of sage. It is full-bodied and rich in flavour, accompanied by firm but creamy tannins. Polished and well balanced." James Suckling

"A generous red wine with aromas and flavours of ripe cherries, raspberries, plums, iron and rosehips. Juicy and balanced, with a solid base of tannins underneath. A fine expression that is balanced and persistent on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The nose is a jungle adventure, as sanguine notes of meat and leather intertwine with a thicket of wild herbs, brambles and leaves, and a last hint of wild cherry. The palate teleports to the ice cream parlor on Main Street, serving artisanal, hand-churned mint chip, with a Luxardo cherry on top. A rare combination of extravagant and refreshing." Wine Enthusiast

"A wonderful version of one of the great classics of the appellation of origin, signed Antinori. Refined aromas of red mulberry on the nose, eucalyptus, notes of medicinal herbs and laurel. On the palate it is crisp and taut, with salty tannins and again fruity, medicinal herb nuances." Luca Gardini

The fruit for this wine comes from four unique sites at different altitudes, all in different parts of the appellation. Le Ragnaies Brunello 2017 is a tour de force of Sangiovese that runs the entire continuum of Sangiovese. It begins auspiciously with wild cherry, later unfolding pressed blue flowers, spices and potting soil. In addition to these typical tones, there are also cherry, cassis and other classic Sangiovese aromas, 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 inspire us every year, especially in the wines of Le Ragnaie. SUPERIORE.DE

"Mid ruby with orange tinges. Perfumed, cool nose that is not at all reminiscent of the torrid vintage 2017 was. Succulent and elegant on the palate but with obvious concentration and a firm layer of tannins, which make their mark, but the perfumed fruit keeps up on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"Bright ruby red. In the nose of cherries, raspberries, great integrated wood, fine spice. On the palate with pithy, red berry fruit, spans a fine arc, slightly salty final." Falstaff

"Le Ragnaie's 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is a delicate and graceful expression that carefully unfolds to reveal wild berries, dried lilac and beautiful earthy tones. It belongs to that enviable school of Brunello that prioritises tradition, elegance and purity. These are the fundamental qualities of a great Sangiovese, but they are not achieved by all. The identity of Le Ragnaie is closely linked to these efforts. Notes of dried mint or Mediterranean herbs emerge on the finish." Wine Advocate

Clear, relatively cool, polished and deep nose with fine berry tones, a little dry herbs, pepper, hints of tobacco, ash and floral nuances. Taut, tart, fresh and precise fruit with noticeable acidity and present, fine tannins. Dense and persistent on the palate, smoky traces, some dry herbs, salt in the background, very good depth. For all its power, elegant style with a hint of bitter chocolate, very good, taut, tangy finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"This wine has aromas of cherry pits, plums, nutmeg, cedar and some balsamic. It is full-bodied with tangy acidity and spicy, fleshy layers of fruit accompanied by sinewy tannins. A little linear. Powerful finish." James Suckling

"The La Gerla 2018 Brunello di Montalcino La Pieve also shows a thicker and more concentrated side, similar to the Brunello annata. I would argue that this density even goes a step further, with more texture and weight perceived on the palate. This powerful, full-bodied approach is accompanied by ripe cherries, blackberries, smoked spices and leather. There is a hint of sour fruit on the finish." Wine Advocate

"Deep and savoury, this red shows aromas of black cherry, blackberry, eucalyptus, rosemary, iron and earth. With assertive tannins, this finishes with a chewy, compact feel." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino La Pieve exudes ripe strawberry and blueberry fruit in the glass, accompanied by crushed stone and violet pastilles. It is silky-soft and supple, with a depth of ripe red and black berries supported by a core of vibrant acidity. The final is of great depth and length, along with classic tannins that slowly fade lavender-scented plums and a hint of cocoa. The 2018 La Pieve is a real charmer." Vinous

"Raw material of great crispness for this new jewel, result of Sergio Rossi's vision. Notes of red plums on the nose, hints of undergrowth and wild mint, rhubarb on the finish. The mouthfeel is juicy and taut, with succulent tannins, mentholated notes return on the finish." Luca Gardini

"The sanguine, umami nose is a well-laid charcuterie board of carpaccio, Parmesan, dried tomatoes, olives and a cup of pomegranate seeds, with a dusting of oregano and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. The palate turns sweeter and juicier with dried fruit, but the tomatoes and herbs linger through a sophisticated, bitter finish." Wine Enthusiast

There are not 8,000 bottles of this great Brunello, a powerful and at the same time highly elegant wine. Ettore and Enrica Bandirola learned how to make wine from scratch at no less than Giancarlo (Siro) Pacenti. Insider tip! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino shows impressive balance with a dark appearance that is not heavy and a compact texture that remains light and elegant all at once. Bold cherry fruit segues to licorice, tar and tangy cedar wood. The wine is silky and fresh with moderate to long persistence." Wine Advocate

"Dark and mysterious, this red offers plum, black cherry, leather, leafy tobacco and tar flavors. Fresh and lifted up by a layer of beefy tannins, lingering with a spicy, underbrush aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"A red with plenty of ripe and floral fruit on the nose as well as orange peel and cherry. Full body, linear and very fine with beautiful fruit. White pepper, too. Shows energy." James Suckling

"Elegantly scented, this fragrant red opens with scents of perfumed berry, iris, pipe tobacco and exotic spice. The vibrant linear palate evokes juicy cranberry, sour cherry and star anise framed in tightly wound fine-grained tannins while bright acidity provides balance. A savory saline note lingers on the finish." Wine Enthusiast

The even stricter selection of the grapes in 2017 led to a total of half the number of bottles compared to previous vintages. The result, however, is impressive: An extremely attractive bouquet with earthy notes, only gradually revealing ripe strawberries, spicy herbs, leather and a little coffee. As it progresses, spicy orange peel, sour cherry and mint, followed by salty minerals. The lively acidity ensures that the wine remains fresh and supple despite its compact structure. The initially firm tannins gracefully envelop the pretty fruit core with further aeration, and in the long final we then discover sweet spices and traces of white pepper. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Sassetti Livio Pertimali 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is quite bright and lifted with cherries and fresh fruits that pop from the glass. The primary intensity is radiant in this wine, setting it apart from many of its peers. It covers the palate with mid-weight intensity, nice acidity and silky tannins. The brightness you get here is so attractive now, so I see little reason to wait much longer before pulling this cork." Wine Advocate

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino makes itself known with a burst of dusty black raspberries, mentholated herbs, crushed ashen stone and dark flowery undergrowth. Silky-smooth and round in feel, it impresses with a cooling wave of mint-infused wild berry fruits mixed with balsamic spices and wood-smoked salts. While the 2017 doesn’t have the weight and density you’d expect from such a young Pertimali, yet it makes up for it with grace and purity, leaving a light coating of tannins and minerals to mingle throughout the finale." Vinous

"Black cherry and mushroom with some dried flower undertones. Full-bodied with fine velvety tannins and a juicy and succulent finish. The tannins are very polished for a 2017. Try from 2023 onwards." James Suckling

"One of the founding wineries of the Brunello Consortium, an ancient wisdom that proceeds in the line of tradition to realize wines of excellence. The nose is neat and intriguing, with small red fruits, touches of red currant, star anise and undergrowth, with a finish of freshness, on the notes of wild mint. The mouthfeel is juicy and dense, closing with officinal return." Luca Gardini

Poggio San Polo Brunello is a selection of the best grapes from the estate's various vineyard sites. It opens very engagingly with dark fruit, including plenty of black cherry and dark plum, optimally rounded off by a fine balsamic herbal spice and notes of white pepper. The palate has an almost perfect texture, a suppleness and silkiness that is refreshed and carried by a well-proportioned, refined Sangiovese acidity. Dark berry flavours, long, deep and with a very remarkable, slightly mineral final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour with delicate garnet-red rim highlights. Alternating cherry fruit and cigar box on the nose. Harmonious and fresh on the palate, lively acidity, well-integrated tannins, lots of marzipan on the finish, lingers for a remarkably long time." Falstaff

"San Polo is located on the south-eastern flank of Montalcino. Monte Amiata rises above the estate and provides a constant breeze that keeps the humidity low. The 16 hectares are divided into eight plots and are blended depending on the vintage. The brick-coloured 2018 opens with aromas of charcoal, then is joined by smoky wild berries, dried orange peel and a hint of juniper. The core is richly concentrated without being overbearing, while supple tannins fill the mouth with an assertive, balanced structure. It finishes with an earthy hint of liquorice root." Decanter

"Shows earthy, rustic aromas that hint at a slight reduction, giving way to flavours of plum, cherry, rose, juniper, eucalyptus and iron. The powerful tannins characterise the compact finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino, a certified organic wine, shows a savoury character that accompanies the wine from start to finish on the palate. There is a core of black fruit, but the real highlight is the spicy contour of dark chestnut shells, acacia honey, ploughed earth and roasted rosemary that fills the balloon of the glass. This Brunello finishes on an acidic note and shows tannins that could use a few more years to soften. This is a wine of medium concentration." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of sour plums, cherry stones, bark and iodine, with some dried herbs. So fresh, tangy and flavourful, with bright berry fruit and savoury moss notes. Fine and integrated tannins. Medium body. Everything is about balance." James Suckling

"The mainly earthy, sanguine nose is enlivened by the slightly tart sweetness of the plums. This pleasant dynamic continues on the palate before finally giving way to a chocolaty, coffee-like finish. Firm but supple tannins provide structure, while the acidity brings warmth." Wine Enthusiast

"South-east of the denomination, a project of the Allegrini family, still relatively young but at the highest quality level, like this 2018. Pomegranate on the nose, with a hint of wild mint and juniper. Crisp on the palate, with salty tannins and a fruity-menthol finish." Luca Gardini

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. The 2017 is not yet ready to show all its treasures, instead it impresses with its sheer potential, rejuvenating with fine tannins, hints of liquorice and gorgeous inner flowers. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium warm red; depth of fruit, spicy, very inviting; sweetness, round, fine, juicy, round tannin, elegant brunello, fruit length, long, pleases very much." (JLF) Merum

"Sweet cherries and berries with some smoke and ash undertones. Medium body with firm, silky tannins that are slightly chewy, but polished and very pleasant for the vintage." James Suckling

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is deeply expressive, showing peppery red berries and pomegranate plus hints of tomato leaf and sage, reminding me of that moment you add fresh herbs to a just-finished ragù. This is pure silk on the palate, rich and pliant, as it slowly saturates the senses with mineral-laced red and hints of blue fruit. Intensely primary and licorice-tinged, it tapers off grippy and classically dry to lasting rosy florals. The 2017 is a bit like a tamed beast of a Brunello." Vinous

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is beautifully bright and stitched up with extreme focus and sharpness. Sangiovese has this gorgeous ability to show linearity and lift, but it remains elegant and tight at the same time. This wine accomplishes all of this, and that's saying a lot given the heat and drought of this vintage. The acidity is bright and the finish is long and smooth with citrusy end notes of blood orange followed by wild rose and lilac. Fruit comes from a 4.5-hectare site with sand and galestro soils." Wine Advocate