Wines from Tuscany | Montalcino

The Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio al Vento 2016, which comes onto the market seven years after the grape harvest, is a breathtaking wine. It soars to the highest heights in terms of elegance and power. These opposing forces - power and grace - are what characterise this classic vintage. Col d'Orcia has effortlessly captured and immortalised both sides of the continuum. The bouquet displays a long array of aromas, including dried cherries, liquorice, cola, lavender flowers, cured meat and black truffles. The velvety finish is smooth and lingering. A wonderful creation from the top 2016 vintage! SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, bright ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Memorable nose with notes of plums, some cranberries, dark cherries, very clear. Firm, full-bodied tannins on the palate, opens with a lot of pressure, coated in ripe berry fruit, savoury and profound, subtle earthy notes on the final." Falstaff

"Brilliant, medium to deep ruby red colour with only light orange tones. Some development on the nose, but otherwise still very closed. Supple and concentrated, with fine, tangy acidity and astonishing balance. Finely chiselled tannins and supple, concentrated fruit on the finish. An elegant wine whose 15% alcohol is imperceptible." Jancis Robinson

"The organic Col d'Orcia 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio al Vento is beautiful, to be honest, with a unique sense of direct power, medium-rich texture and evolved fruit. This Riserva takes us back in time to one of the most successful vintages in Montalcino's history. The bouquet is characterised by dried fruit, rose potpourri and roasted chestnut shells. The tannins are dissolved and the wine ends on a soft, silky note." Wine Advocate

"The nose is primarily spicy, with aromas of old leather, dirt and mixed spices, like a general shop in the old west with cherry and liquorice candy in bins. The palate is more fruit-driven, with notes of cherries and figs mingling with coffee and sambuca flavours to create a subtle hint of spiciness. The tannins and acidity oversee the proceedings without imposing themselves, like a good host at a party." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Poggio al Vento is a classic wine that takes its time in the glass, slowly gaining depth and nuance: dusty roses and leather give way to dried strawberries, then notes of cedar and spiced blood orange. It is elegant and refined, with polished red berry fruit and a silky texture contrasted by notes of sour orange. A core of lively acidity provides a wonderfully fresh appeal. The finish is long and colourful, but also youthfully structured. A layer of fine tannins holds on to the remnants of redcurrant and spice. Ultimately, the 2016 Poggio al Vento leaves the taster longing for another sip and regretting its incredibly youthful state. It will be many years before we can fully enjoy the depth and complexity it currently harbours, but I hope to be there when that day finally comes." Vinous

"Packed with vibrant cherry, strawberry, rose, mineral and tobacco aromas and flavors, this red is racy and pure, with a superb aftertaste. Defined by its bracing acidity and precise fruit flavors, this still has some tannins to resolve. So youthful and fresh, it feels like this has hardly budged in its evolution." Wine Spectator

"Super classic Brunello from a classic vintage that is now coming onto the market. The fragrance has it all: cherries, flowers, pencil and slight hints of graphite. This is followed by raspberries and black cherries with some sandalwood shavings. You just want to smell it. Clear and transparent. Full-bodied with very fine and incisive tannins that fill the mouth and show great tension and shape. Extremely long and structured. Beautiful now, but it will age for decades to come." James Suckling

Medium-light ruby red colour. Very open and graceful nose of red fruits, violets, tobacco, rose petals and some thyme. Full and juicy on the palate, with a beautiful finish and subtle extract sweetness, expansively harmonious with a pleasant freshness and hints of pomegranate, pepper and sour cherry. Long-lasting with great depth, well-dosed tannins and fresh acidity - made for a long life in all its facets, but already very accessible today. SUPERIORE.DE

"Very spicy bouquet with bright cherries and earthy-herbal nuances, laurel, fine leather and earth, also mineral hints, with air then also floral hints such as violets and roses. On the palate, it is dense and elegant, but still compact with a fine, unagitated, self-contained style, the fine tannins radiate noblesse, although still very much characterised by the cool vintage, very complex. Pure understatement." Weinwisser

"Elegant, dark, bright ruby red with delicate brick-red reflections. On the nose, butter biscuits, fresh red apple, rich cherry, watermelon, plus fine ferrous hints. Good juiciness and clear fruit on the palate, slightly rough but ripe tannins, slightly salty at the back, still needs time." Falstaff

"This pretty, elegant red offers a firm structure to support its rose, cherry, strawberry, mineral and menthol flavors. The tannins gain the upper hand for now, yet the fruit component lingers. This finishes long." Wine Spectator

"Very floral on the nose with lavender and lilac. Cherries and peaches with an undertone of orange. Medium body with firm and silky tannins that are slightly chewy. Salty undertone in the fruit and hints of cedar and black truffle. Strong acidity. Excellent energy." James Suckling

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is beautiful, floral and refined, with a classic Sangiovese profile that combines dried roses and black cherries with dusty earth, worn leather and a hint of cedar spice. It shows beautiful ripeness of fruit, pure and lifted yet powerful, with masses of red wild berries and inner flowers cascading over a core of savoury acidity. The finish is long and colourful, with regal tannins and a tart cranberry note that lingers on and on. The 2018 picks up the perfumed character of the vintage and combines perfectly with a core of vibrant, intense fruit. It is completely atypical of the vintage and the result of an extreme selection process that reduced the production volume by 20%." Vinous

The 2019 Brunello vintage from Altesino stands proudly among its peers. The bouquet has a pronounced floral character with delightful notes of pressed rose petals and dried violets. The fruit tones are elegant and harmonious, ranging from light red cherries to redcurrants. Firm and well-structured on the palate, the multi-layered fruit is accentuated by a refined fennel and liquorice note. Long and stately in the final, great! SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium, ripe red; warm nose, deep ripe notes, inviting; powerful, coffee, cassis, matching tannin, length." Merum

"Already firm and compact on the nose with a fine, complex character, as is often the case on the dark red, black berry side (cassis, dark cherries), with earthy and ethereal notes reminiscent of mint. Very present and again grippy on the palate, the ripe fruit is clasped by a fine tannin corset, the delicate acidity embraces the athletic body. This has power and fine tension. A very typical 2019." Weinwisser

"Bright, light ruby red colour. Very fragrant on the nose, of ripe currants, reminiscent of raspberries, orange juice and cold fruit tea. Shows earthy notes on the palate, ripe berry fruit and full-bodied tannins, with good pressure, warm and grippy with good length on the finish." Falstaff

"This red wine has a solid structure and shows macerated flavours of cherry, plum, earth and wild herbs, supported by a lively acidity. A hint of chocolate adorns the finish alongside dense tannins." Wine Spectator

"Altesino covers around 50 hectares in the northern and southern parts of Montalcino. The estate's Brunello is a blend of different vineyards and is one of the best wines in the appellation. While the bottling from Montosoli has a rather solemn tone, this 2019 is cheerful and bright. Strong redcurrants and cherries mingle with plums and aniseed. The lush, fruity, plush palate is mouth-filling yet agile. Sandy tannins envelop and caress it, while the citrus-like acidity lightens the whole. It's already approachable and has enough depth, concentration and backbone for a solid decade of enjoyment." Decanter

"A medium-bodied red wine with beautiful plum and berry aromas and flavours. Fine tannins and a fresh finish. Very fine and concentrated. This is all about finesse and polish." James Suckling

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino has a dark ruby red colour in the glass and opens with a beguiling mix of dusty earth, crushed rock, spicy herbs and dried roses. It is racy and supple, with vibrant ripe wild berries underscored by orange and sage, all with a lively acidity. The grippy tannins take control on the finish, but hints of bitter liquorice and dark chocolate leave the mouth wanting more." Vinous

"The Altesino 2019 Brunello di Montalcino shows a rich and flavoursome side that this wine carries very well. There is a nice amount of dark fruit that blends into the velvety texture of the wine. Blackberry and plum envelop the palate, adding elegant, full-bodied volume and fine tannins." Wine Advocate

Medium ruby red. Opulent bouquet of small red berries, especially redcurrant, somewhat herbal. Then full and harmonious on the palate, with pleasant fresh brightenings and a nice texture of cherries, forest floor and herbs. A stable framework of acidity and tannin leads into a persistent and long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

Warm, very seductive aromas of black cherries, flowers, tobacco, minerals and undergrowth emerge from the bright ruby red. The interplay between the rich fruit and the classic structure is ingenious. The taste captivates with its intensity, luxurious and mysteriously dark. Love at first sight! SUPERIORE.DE

"Stands out positively; gossamer reduction, liquorice, violets, cool herbal spice, menthol and mint, blue fruit, ultra elegant already in the aroma; continues on the palate spicy and drinky, contemporary and classic at the same time, animating for all its power." Meiningers Sommelier

"The organic and biodynamic Pian dell'Orino 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vigneti del Versante is drinking beautifully right now. Released later than its peers, this Sangiovese showcases the power, precision and elegance of the iconic 2016 vintage. Yet the wine also offers enough distance from the harvest to enable additional complexity thanks to barrel and bottle aging. A dark garnet appearance sets the stage, and the bouquet follows in lockstep with pressed cherry, dark plum, spice, balsam herb and an unexpected interjection of freshly cut red rose. The wine's aromas are delivered with generous and transparent intensity. On the palate, Vigneti del Versante is rich and dense, offering silky tannins with crunch. There is a hint of salty mineral at the very end. Exactly 7,556 bottles exist." Wine Advocate

"Crushed stone, wild herbs and tart black cherries lift up from the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vigneti del Versante, but that’s only the beginning. With time, this blossoms further, gaining a sweeter fruit profile and autumnal spices with hints of shaved cedar. Its textures are remarkably refined and silky in feel, with an intense concentration of tart red fruits, yet energy is maintained through brilliant acidity, as grippy tannins build steadily toward the close. The Vigneti del Versante tapers off with amazing length, youthful poise and a balanced structure, promising many, many years of positive evolution. This is really something to behold. I tasted the 2016 from a freshly opened bottle and from one that had been opened for two days prior that showed no signs of decline; in fact, it blossomed further. Simply stunning." Vinous

Luce is the iconic wine of the estate of the same name and symbolises the harmonious balance between the elegant structure of Sangiovese and the richness of Merlot. The wine marries the tradition and terroir of the Montalcino region with a personal interpretation of this extraordinary land.

Almost impenetrable ruby red colour. The bouquet is initially reductive and relatively austere, opening up soft and warm with increasing aeration and a seductive aroma of ripe berries, tobacco and leather. The flavour is concentrated, distinctive and tannic, yet silky and promising on the palate. The finish is long and deep with hints of coffee and vanilla. A great blend of Merlot and Sangiovese with great potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a brightening rim. Fine fragrance on the nose, subtle, some lavender, mint, then cassis and ripe raspberry, cold smoke on the finish." Falstaff

"The wine is characterised by the vanilla of new oak and has aromas of blackcurrants, blackberries, flowers and iron. Racy, with lively acidity and dusty tannins that linger on the finish. It needs air, so give it a few years to absorb the oak." Wine Spectator

"The nose is dense and powerful, with lush black fruits and chocolate, and it becomes even more perfumed with aeration. The attack is tangy and powerful, savoury and assertive, but without excessive extraction, and the tannins are polished. Despite a hint of tar and liquorice, the black fruits dominate. It is well balanced, grippy and structured, with a very long finish and will age well." Decanter

"Delicious perfume of dark forest fruits and plums, also tobacco and undergrowth; well-built with precise tannins, a subtle minerality can also be felt, the final a potpourri of fruity and balsamic notes, overall extremely polished and elegant." Vinum

"Very nice orange peel with redcurrants and blue berries. Also flowers. Medium to full body with firm and velvety tannins that are polished and impressive. Fresh fruit on the finish. Serious structure and brightness. Better after 2026." James Suckling

A Riserva is produced in the winery only in the best years, and the result is just over 3,000 bottles of the finest Sangiovese, which presents itself in the 2015 edition undisputedly in the first league of Montalcino. Medium light red, wonderfully balanced aromas and an almost seamless transition from nose to palate. Notes of wild berries, spices and forest floor come together like a team to create a rich, deep and highly balanced growth, which is already on the podium after the first sip. Texture, structure and tannins are not to be surpassed in harmony and leave an impression in the long reverberation, dan one does not forget again. 2015 was a very harmonious and rich year, this Brunello captures the character of the vintage impressively precisely. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"A full-bodied, structured red with smoke, tar and grilled mushrooms on the nose. Some bitter berries to go with the earthy mushrooms. Chewy tannins and a long, savory finish. Lots of citrus." James Suckling

"The Gianni Brunelli Le Chiuse di Sotto 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is another beauty from this bijoux estate. This wine offers texture and depth, but it does not have the same level of luminosity or brightness that we got in the 2016 Brunello. It shows some charred aromas with spice and ripe fruit, with wide and large ambition. I got a touch of Graham cracker and brown sugar, followed by spice and ripe fruit. This is a long and generous wine, with soft fruit and texture on the long finish." Wine Advocate

"The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino from Gianni Brunelli didn’t leave much room for improvement; yet somehow the Riserva manages to take things to a whole new level. The bouquet alone is absolutely stunning, as you could sit with this glass for an hour and never grow tired of taking in its mix of sweet wild herbs, dusty florals and bright cherry fruit. Sage, lavender, spiced orange and flowery undergrowth complete this already-dazzling expression. It’s deep and silky, verging on fleshy but not quite, as a tactile mix of acids, minerals and fine tannin settle in. That said, while the 2015 Riserva is classically structured and dry, it prioritizes purity of fruit above all else, seeming to hover upon the senses and never grow tiring. Fans of Gianni Brunelli will be very happy to have a few of these resting in the cellar. The Riserva is typically made from a higher percentage of fruit from the Olmo vineyard at Podernovone in the south balanced out by a parcel from Le Chiuse in the north, which adds freshness." Vinous

Once upon a time, there was a vineyard that was particularly spoilt by the Montalcino sun; it still bears the name Vigna Loreto to this day. Only in the best vintages does a Brunello come from this exposed site that is bursting with richness, complexity and assertiveness. It possesses a textural depth and balance that is captivating. Fruit, spice and very unique nuances such as savoury herbs, liquorice, tobacco and a firm tannin make this impressive wine monument linger on the palate and in the memory for a long time. With every sip, it opens up further layers and you might almost sink into it, such is the shift in the boundaries of what is comparable. The 2019 Vigna Loreto is not only extremely elegant, but also profound and almost outrageously juicy. SUPERIORE.DE

"Opulent nose with woody spice, backed by ripe red and blue fruits (redcurrants, wild berries) with ethereal herbal aromas, also floral notes such as lavender. Rich palate with intense fruit, ripe and taut, framed by grippy, polished tannins and supporting freshness." Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby-garnet colour with a brightening rim. Opens with notes of smoke and tobacco, then lots of pomegranate and plum, light mineral components. Present tannin on the palate, which is very well integrated over the course, firm pressure, lots of juicy fruit." Falstaff

"Overlooking the River Orcia, the south-east-facing Loreto vineyard rises 400 metres above sea level. Tasted alongside the estate's Brunello, it definitely shows a greater stage presence. Intense plum and cherry flavours intertwine with exotic spices, chinotto and sweet herbs. The inner flavours of the vintage are in the foreground and emphasise the compact fruit. The gravelly tannins support the whole, but are more elegant than powerful. The wine finishes with a hint of liquorice." Decanter

"Blackberries, menthol, sage, stone dust and cloves characterise the youthful, restrained 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Loreto. It flows lightly across the palate, silky with depths of ripe raspberries and sour cherries, while fine-grained tannins saturate the finish. The finish is savoury and long, structured yet lively and stimulates the imagination with its future potential. Hints of cocoa, lavender and topical leaf linger and seem to last well over a minute. I am impressed." Vinous

"This wine shows cracked white pepper and wet slate, giving you a clear sense of place. The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Loreto is precise and well-defined, but as the wine opens up, you get interludes of ripe fruit, blackcurrant and oak spice. The wine is multi-faceted with many layers and angles. The palate is bright cherry with good length that leads into fine, chalky tannins. This wine offers an authentic flavour of Montalcino." Wine Advocate

"A soil with tufa prevalence that gives this Brunello great tension. Red mulberry, notes of lemon thyme and peony. Salty tannins on the palate finish with thyme and floral notes." Luca Gardini

Deep, dark ruby red colour. Wonderfully accentuated bouquet of wild cherries, rose petals and violets. Silky and polished on the palate, with a noticeable vitality. The proportions of fruit, acidity and tannin are well balanced, complemented by exciting notes of liquorice and herbs. Medium-long, very balanced finish. This Brunello ideally represents the exceptional vintage and will certainly continue to grow in the years to come. SUPERIORE.DE

"Lustrous ruby. Pretty nose of red fruit with a dark earth note and a mere suggestion of oak. Cool-climate character. Sleek and succulent and with fine, gripping tannins; more direct than the Rennina of the same vintage. Will improve with more bottle age, even if it is already very attractive." Jancis Robinson

San Polo's top Brunello comes from the estate's oldest vines, the 2-hectare single vineyard Vignavecchia. Intense ruby red in colour. The nose is enveloped by ripe red berries, violets, some forest floor and a subtle woody spice. The palate is breathtakingly deep, complex and with a terrifictexture. The warm tannins and well-balanced acidity make every sip unforgettable and the endlessly long final lingers for a long time. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Vignavecchia lulls me with a seductive palette of sweet exotic spices emphasising medicinal cherry and dusty violet blossom. It's silky smooth, with a dense wave of rich red fruit enveloping the senses, allowing violet-tinged inner flowers and chalky mineral tones to linger. This dark, enchanting Brunello finishes with impressive length and a layer of fine tannins that beautifully frame the lingering notes of liquorice and citrusy blackberries. Courtesy of San Polo, this is once again a great Brunello of the vintage." Vinous

"The organic San Polo 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Vignavecchia opens with a medium-dark garnet colour and shows both the tart fruit aromas we saw in the Annata expression and the gamey aromas we saw in the Podernovi selection. This wine is a good middle ground with cassis, cherry and sour plum flavours. There are also spices, leather and smoked tobacco. It finishes with medium intensity and an acidic finish. The old vines are selected from an area of two hectares and only 3,000 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"The nose initially features a textured sweetness of fruit leather, cherry candy, figs and oranges, then takes an umami turn towards wet, fallen leaves, mushrooms and soy sauce. The figs and oranges star on the palate, but a bitter cocoa undercurrent maintains balance, as acid sparkles around tightly coiled tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Complex nose of cloves, ripe violet berries, some graphite, dried herbs, dark plums and spices. Full-bodied with chewy tannins and a compact core of ripe, dark fruits and spices. Deep and profound." James Suckling

Cherry accentuated bouquet with hints of violet blossoms, clove, cigar box and a pleasant spicy sweetness. Dense and expressive on the palate, it opens vibrantly and multilayered and then reveals a beautiful load of black cherry, exotic spices and a fine salty vein. The perfectly balanced tannin always provides the necessary balance and gives it a racy, very long finish with its exceedingly refined flavour components. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium to deep ruby red. Perfumed, spicy nose with mineral notes. Fine polished fruit that is really fresh. Long, grainy tannins. Lush and fresh at the same time." Jancis Robinson

"The Castiglion del Bosco 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is robust and powerful from the start, showing broad shoulders and plenty of muscle. But at the end of the day, the wine's concentration remains on the medium to medium-bodied side of the spectrum. It remains firmly within the confines of Sangiovese. Dark fruits and blackcurrants segue into savoury notes of toasted spices, black olives, earth and rusty nails." Wine Advocate

"In the far northwest of Montalcino, the sprawling Castiglion del Bosco estate stretches over several hills of varying heights, exposures and textures. From 42 hectares dedicated to Brunello comes this impressive production. The 2018 does not explode with its fragrance, but slowly unfolds its suggestive floral scents. These reach a crescendo on the palate, melding seamlessly with joyful, pure pomegranate and cherry flavours. The supple tannins have a velvety texture. Unrestrained and fluid, it's hard to resist now." Decanter

"Ripe berries and hints of red liquorice and herbs on the nose, medium-bodied on the palate with fine, tightly packed tannins and a taut finish for now. Give it two years to relax a little. Taste from 2025." James Suckling

"The nose puts cherries front and center, intertwined with roses with heavier tar and graphite, before umami flavors of mushroom, balsamic vinegar, seaweed and soy slowly emerge. On the chalky palate, dark chocolate pushes up against the showboating cherries before a kick of spice sets up a long, energetic finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Exuding a dusty blend of cedar spice, mentholated herbs, rose petals and sour cherry, the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino feels round and supple, with floral red and black fruits complemented by a subtle hint of sweet spice. The palate leaves a bitter aftertaste of sour berries, while a touch of residual acidity gives the wine a pleasing freshness and a gentle tannin slowly retreats. The 2018 has improved every time I've tasted it over the past five months, and it now shows the robustness of northwestern Montalcino Sangiovese, but in a wonderfully balanced way." Vinous

"Rich at the start, with a touch of glycerine in the texture before civilised tannins take over on the finish. It offers notes of plum, cherry, earth, tobacco and iron that come through, with a firm grip of tannins on the finish." Wine Spectator

"From a parcel of the Capanna vineyard, one of the most successful expressions of the winery run by the managing director Simone Pallesi. Pomegranate notes on the nose, with balsamic nuances of eucalyptus and rhubarb. Salty, juicy tannins on the palate, fruity-balsamic finish." Luca Gardini

After a year's break, the new edition of the long-awaited Brunello Annata comes onto the market with the outstanding 2019 vintage. Initially restrained on the nose, with a little coaxing in the glass it reveals a beautiful blend of fragrant black cherries, mentholated spices, wild herbs, white smoke and a hint of leather. On the palate, silky, enveloping textures, contrasted by cool red and black fruits, plus lively acids that emphasise the spicier and sweeter side of the wine and glide endlessly on the final with fine tannins and minerals. We can already recognise a harmony here that makes us eagerly anticipate the further development of this wonderful wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Valdicava was rewarded in 2019 with both quality and quantity. Rather than racing out of the gate, this expresses methodically. Fresh berries are offset by dried florals, tea, tobacco and cedar. Perfumes of orange oil and rose build on the palate, bestowing brightness and a more youthful mien. Tannins are fine-grained yet firm, accentuated by steely acidity. Overall elegant in flow." Decanter

"This displays a mix of fruity and savory flavors, with notes of cherry, raspberry, rose hip, leather and earth. Pliable tannins emerge on the finish, yet this is balanced and long overall, with freshness and elegance." Wine Spectator

"Aromatic with black cherries, oranges and cedar. Very perfumed. Medium to full body. Firm tannins. The wood is showing a bit now but will come through nicely. This is a structured and toned red. Give this three or four years more in bottle." James Suckling

There was no Montosoli for two years due to quality reasons, but now it is back in its peak year and for the first time in a 0.Liters bottle. Irresistible bouquet of orange peel, cherries and herbs, plus floral undergrowth, white smoke and wild berries. The attack is fascinatingly soft and pure, infused with salty minerals, while sweet notes of cherry and raspberry slowly emerge and increase the pressure. The whole is flanked and completed in its complexity by tannins that still have a youthful grip. What could be more high-class than a perfectly proportioned (and extremely limited) Brunello from one of Montalcino's most famous vineyards? SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 shows an intense ruby red colour and a virile personality that packs a punch. The aroma of oily herbs, iron, incense and game is pervasive, and mineral nuances are repeated on the palate, where bitter chocolate tones lie in wait. The full, velvety, dark-skinned fruit is framed by crisp, vertical tannins and infused with energetic acidity. As voluminous as this wine is now, its structure demands time." Decanter

"This red wine is characterised by intensity, breadth and depth. It displays expressive aromas and flavours of cherry, raspberry, iron, eucalyptus and tobacco, which combine with a supple texture and refined structure. It strikes a balance between elegance and power, with a lingering aftertaste of fresh red fruit." Wine Spectator

"The nose is so pure and subtle, with a hint of sophistication and ethereality. You can just sit back and think about the world. It's like sitting in a mountain meadow. Medium to full-bodied with ultra-fine tannins that are endless and glorious in every way. It's like being connected to a unique piece of earth when you taste this wine. Just ripe berries with dried flowers, mussel shells and subtle mushroom and bark notes. Lasts so long on the palate. Endless. It's already drinkable because it's perfectly balanced, but it will be even better in three to six years and beyond." James Suckling

With so many fantastic wines produced in the exceptional year 2016, it is hard for us to make a best list. But the Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna di Pianrosso Santa Caterina d'Oro 2016 is definitely one of them. Only bottled in exceptional years, the single-vineyard Riserva Vigna di Pianrosso Santa Caterina d'Oro is a fine and delicate wine with great depth, perfectly balanced power and plenty of drive. It is thoroughly graceful and very elegant, with powerful aromatic intensity followed by firm tannins and a polished, soft texture. This Riserva offers power in the proverbial silken glove. But the wine is by no means simplistic about it. The longer it warms in the glass, the more it delights and surprises us. Delicate tones of wild berries, cassis, blanched almonds and dried ginger work together harmoniously, the final is endless and the lasting impression unforgettable. SUPERIORE.DE

"Seductive raspberry nose, coquettishly underpinned by notes of flowers and herbs; multi-faceted texture, the acidity invigorating, the tannins tight and beautiful, the final full of polish and elegance, the fruit notes beguiling. Great wine that can age." Vinum

"Bright, rich garnet red. Very clear and intense nose, full of ripe raspberries, pickled cherries and some liquorice in the background. Lots of ripe fruit on the palate, shows grippy tannin, firm pressure on the final, long finish of plums." Falstaff

"From the estate’s Pianrosso vineyard in the Castelnuovo dell’Abate area, Santa Caterina d’Oro bears the imprint of Montalcino’s south. The spiced, floral potpourri is tangled with sunbaked terracotta scents. This is a substantial, hefty wine with lots of extract and a profusion of fleshy red plum and prune. The tannins are very suave, while sandy earthiness lurks in the background and a salty tang comes through on the finish." Decanter

"Dark yet wonderfully perfumed, the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna di Pianrosso Santa Caterina d'Oro blossoms in the glass to present a bouquet of dried strawberries and roses complemented by hints of blood orange and clove. It shows the power and grace of a well-muscled dancer as a dense wave of ripe red and black fruits rushes across the palate, lifted by bright acidity, while leaving a mix of saline-minerals and grippy tannins toward the close. Though structured for the long haul, the 2016 maintains unexpected vibrancy, finishing with hints of plum and almond. This is simply stunning." Vinous

"The Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna di Pianrosso Santa Caterina d'Oro is gorgeous, full stop. It shows an incredible level of Sangiovese purity and sharpness, and you taste the grape as if you were eating berries straight out of the vineyard. On top of that healthy and bright primary material, the wine layers on elegant aromas of spice, ferrous earth, balsam herb and red rose potpourri. The aromas meet with seamless integration and segue to ongoing depth and complexity offered to the palate. This Riserva is rather delicate in terms of mouthfeel; however, it is powerful and long, with high alcohol, polished tannins and a silky texture. A hint of sweet cherry mixed with menthol freshness pulls it together at the end." Wine Advocate

"Glorious aromas of flowers, nutmeg, dark berries, earth and black cherries follow through to a full body with ultra-fine tannins that are long and extremely polished. They go on for minutes. Reserved and shy still, due to its excellence. Give this four or five years to come around. Try after 2024." James Suckling

"Both fluid and concentrated at once, this exudes cherry, black currant, violet and mineral aromas and flavors. Saturated with ripe fruit, this has beautifully integrated acidity and tannins, with a racy profile that drives the superlong finish. The tannins flex their muscles at the end yet remain refined." Wine Spectator

"A wine from cru of about 12 hectares born to be great. 36 months in Slavonian oak from 20-62 hl, at least 8 in bottle. Sour cherry, balsamic touch of Valdostan mint, black pepper leaf, undergrowth at the nose, juicy, dense mouth, with iodized and refined tannins, persistence and precision. Breathtaking finish." Luca Gardini

Just 72 bottles of this extraordinary creature were released for the German market. At the same time, San Polo's latest growth comes from the oldest vines of the wine estate, the Vignavecchia single vineyard with a size of 2 hectares. The year 2015 brought not only very healthy berries but also ideal acidity and sugar levels. So, it is not surprising that Vignavecchia made it to the podium right away and that this Brunello is one of the highest-rated wines of the dream vintage.

Intense ruby red. The nose is flooded with ripe red berry fruits, violets, some forest floor and a subtle wood spice. On the palate then breathtakingly deep, complex and with terrific texture. The warm tannins and well-dosed acidity make each sip memorable, and the endlessly long final reverberates long after the bottle is already empty ... This wine fills Brunello lovers with great joy and only the most controlled among them will ever experience the terrific maturation potential of the Vignavecchia 2015. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of underbrush, camphor and tobacco form the nose along with a whiff of prune. Tightly knit and full-bodied, the palate features black-cherry jam, licorice, roasted coffee-bean and toasted notes alongside close-grained, velvety tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Released in numbered bottles, the Poggio San Polo 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Vignavecchia is a true beauty with the elegance, distinctive intensity and savory sophisticated flavors that you only get in this storied appellation in the southern half of Tuscany. With fruit from old vines, the wine is naturally denser and richer. This expression also shows more oak shadings, with pretty spice and smoke that frame the dark fruit. These various elements come together with impeccable precision and focus. I suggest giving this wine a few more years of cellar rest." Wine Advocate

"This is a phenomenal new red from San Polo with superb depth and intensity with plum, wet earth and black truffle. Full body. Chewy and ripe tannins and a long and flavorful finish. The depth and beautiful is gorgeous. Needs three or four years to come together." James Suckling

Giacomo Neri's rather new top Brunello was born with the purchase of a very special vineyard. True to the winery's philosophy of producing wines only from the best terroirs around Montalcino, a small 7-hectare parcel with over 45-year-old vines was acquired a few years ago. This was preceded by over 40 years of friendship with the previous owners, with whom Giacomo's father Giovanni Neri planted the vines and nurtured them over the past decades.

Brunello Giovanni Neri exudes all the outstanding qualities of the raw material and the winemaker's craft. Man and nature unite here in perfect precision and harmony. Its balance is exquisite. Strong cherry and blackberry notes are followed by crushed minerals, liquorice, smoke and slightly fragrant cedar wood notes. The wine spreads evenly and powerfully on the palate, and its flavour intensity can be counted on for many minutes. Giovanni Neri Brunello is wonderfully concentrated and rich, but never too heavy or even too dense. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense, bright ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Presents itself with a memorable nose, lots of crisp fruit, blood orange and cherry, some lemon balm. On the palate, fine-meshed tannins that spread out in many layers, builds up over a long time, with very well-developed fruit and a very long finish with full-bodied pressure." Falstaff

"This ripe red wine is bursting with aromas and flavours of plums, cherries, rosehips and minerals, while a light tannin content and lively acidity provide lift. Balanced, pure and long, with a ray of cherry that lingers in the long aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Giovanni Neri showcases a seductive blend of dried cherry, clove, incense, cedar spice box and hints of rosemary in its dramatic bouquet. This possesses a lovely inner sweetness and vividly ripe red and blue fruits. Tactile mineral tones add tension and saturated, edgy tannins settle in toward the close. Classically structured and incredibly long, it leaves the palate reeling. The 2019 is youthfully poised and structured yet remains fresh as rosy inner florals slowly fade." Vinous

"Wow, this wine steals the show. The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Giovanni Neri is a new addition to the Casanova di Neri portfolio in its second year of existence. It is a tribute to Giacomo Neri's father and represents a stylistic shift to the elegant side of Montalcino. The wine shows a very nuanced bouquet with roasted cherry stones, Luxardo syrup and balsamic herbs. Dark slate and stony minerals merge into a very clean and beautiful earthiness. The tannins are slightly sweeter compared to other wines of this vintage, and there are fragrant tones of old rose and lilac. The balance between tannin and fruit is excellent and I can imagine that this wine will age for a long time." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of cherries, flowers and cedar are followed by a full body with plenty of pure and juicy fruit character. Creamy and savoury with an aftertaste of crushed beans and cherries. The Brunello of today is characterised by purity and perfection of the fruit. The best of an outstanding vintage." James Suckling

"A Brunello of tension and balance, a stylistic masterpiece. The nose is multi-faceted, with hints of blackberry, then blood orange and mint. A balsamic, full, dense and compact bouquet with hints of geranium and clementine peel. The flavour combines elegance and texture, with a return of laurel and a strong salty note on the finish." Luca Gardini

If there is one thing that Giacomo Neri has mastered 100%, it is harvesting at the optimal time of ripeness. He knows his property and his vines better than most and it shows.

The fruit of the 2018 vintage is deep and dark, with high levels of extract, intensity and flavour. It goes far beyond the standard cherry and blackberry to include plum cake, spice bread and bacon-wrapped plum. Nothing about this wine is obvious or monochromatic, everything is nuanced and ethereal. Tenuta Nuova also regularly features the mineral-salty notes that are characteristic of this single vineyard. Very supple tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"From the Cetine vineyard, located southeast of Sant'Angelo in Colle, comes this bottling of Tenuta Nuova with Mediterranean flair and sensual appeal. The relatively early harvest16 September has preserved the freshness of the grapes. Under a woody top note, lavender and balsamic herbs emerge. The ripe red cherries, infused with cinnamon and wrapped in supple tannins, show a high concentration. A juicy, tangy acidity supports the whole. The supple and refined wood should digest with another year in bottle." Decanter

"Bright and concentrated, with aromas and flavours of cherries, raspberries, rose hips, mushrooms, iron and tobacco. Pure and expressive, with fine harmony, an elegant frame and a long-lasting aftertaste. Supported by a firm structure." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is spicy and intense, exuding a wild blend of sweet herbs, cloves, dried citrus peel and crushed red plums. It is dark, elegant and refined, with polished red and black fruits highlighted by hints of lavender and mint; yet underneath, a web of fine tannins slowly saturates the palate. Hints of cranberry and tangerine mingle with lavender on the long and textured final, and the 2018 ends wonderfully balanced and classic. With more maturity, it could earn an even higher score." Vinous

"Powerful, sparkling ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Opens on the nose with notes of wild raspberry and black cherry, along with fine spicy components, violets in the background. Substantial and dense in attack and course, shows very great, compact tannin in many layers, full bite in the final, ends on notes of cloves." Falstaff

"Here is a treat from Casanova di Neri. The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is full-bodied and rich with beautiful layers of dark fruits, dried blackberries, spices and smoked tobacco. The sour cherry of this vintage transitions into crushed flowers, balsamic herbs, liquorice and crushed stone. The bouquet is classic, but the magic of Casanova di Neri emerges thanks to the wine's balance and beautiful intensity." Wine Advocate

"Elegant and perfumed nose of dried roses, violets, lemon peel, slate, cherries, anise and truffle. Very fine, tight and precise tannins. Medium to full body. I like the floral and saline undertones. So precise and fresh with a dense finish. Crushed stones on the finish. Try it in 2025, but it is already attractive to taste and drink." James Suckling

"Southeastern area of Montalcino. From an innovative wine project, a refined and taut Brunello, one of the symbols of this typology now. Vertical on the nose, with notes of redcurrant, wild mint and chinotto, with hints of peony and blood orange. Crisp-tight drinkability, with saline tannins. Finishes fruity and citrusy again." Luca Gardini

As always, the stunning Vigneti del Versante offers a spicy and seductive fruit of black cherries and plums, along with flowers, tobacco, minerals and undergrowth. The wine shows great fibre and density, with much of this power coming from the heavier soils of the selected vineyard sites. The overall impression is captivating with its intensity, yet luxurious and mysteriously dark. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is a fascinating interpretation of the Vigneti di Versante, taking the floral, exotic nature of the vintage and combining it with the finesse and sophistication of Pian dell'Orino. Mint leaves, crushed stones, hints of camphor and dried strawberries are complemented in the glass by hints of ground ginger. This wine is elegant and refined, silky to the core, with tantalising acidity and mineral tones enlivened by hints of orange, while red plums linger on the senses. The tannins are soft and dusty, with an admirable concentration rarely found in 2018, finishing fresh and lightly textured. It is simply delicious. There will be no Bassolino di Sopra in 2018. All the juice went to the Vigneti del Versante." Vinous

If there is one thing that Giacomo Neri has mastered 100%, it is harvesting at the optimum ripening time. He knows his estate and his vines better than most and it shows. The fruit for Tenuta Nuova is harvested from a south and south-east facing slope at 250 to 300 metres above sea level. The soils are loose and mixed with gravel, which allows access to air and moisture.

The flavours of Tenuta Nuova 2019 flow with seamless transitions, and this fluid and ever-changing nature of the bouquet helps to develop intensity and persistence. In the beautifully drawn bouquet, blackberry, plum and summer cherry merge into lingering flavours of spice, leather and herbs. These are always an unmistakable feature of this winery's Brunello and develop steadily with further aeration. The palate reveals a great structure with mineral accents, a fine orange peel flavour, present fruit and numerous spicy components. This wine is a bit like an iron fist in a velvet glove - but with much more velvet glove than iron fist. The finish is long and, as so often with Neri, invigoratingly salty with an undertone of oyster shells. Great potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense, deeply layered bouquet, wide-ranging with dark red flavours, wow, it's captivating. The palate is also complex and multi-layered with earthy, truffled nuances, very territorial, firm structure, penetrating acidity, firm tannic grip, a wine for the ages. The single vineyard Tenuta Nuova is once again one of the best in the tasting. Bravo!" Weinwisser

"Dark ruby red with light violet reflections. Complex on the nose, iron, dark cherry fruit, rich plum, some lovage. On the palate with lots of salt and juice, complex, comes in many layers, with tightly woven tannins, powerful and with full splendour, keeps coming back, big." Falstaff

"Black cherries with violets and other flowers on the nose. Full-bodied with powerful tannins and a juicy finish. Needs time to mellow." James Suckling

"The fruit profile of this red wine is ripe, with flavours of boysenberries, cherries and raspberries, with nuances of earth, iron and tobacco. More linear than square, with a steely line of acidity and tannins in support. Although balanced, it is compact for the moment and has a nice length." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is an understated beauty, perfumed and highly aromatic, with a gorgeous blend of dried black cherry, clove, hints of sage and spiced blood orange. It is cool-toned and classic in feel, with silken textures and vibrant acidity that enlivens the core of tart red berry fruits. A cascade of violet and lavender tones resonate over a coating of fine-grained tannins as it flexes its structural muscle, tapering off long and potent and demanding the taster's attention. This will pay dividends in the cellar." Vinous

"In my opinion, this is the wine that best represents the Casanova di Neri style. With 30 months of ageing, it shows enormous richness and texture, and the outstanding fruit quality appears with more primary elegance compared to the more expensive Cerretalto. This dynamic is particularly pronounced in the comparison between the 2019 and 2018 vintages. The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova has a dark vein of roasted spices, black fruits, ink, blackberry compote, liquorice and star anise. Dark as night, it is exceptionally well-crafted with a robust delivery of concentrated fruit and solid tannin structure. It has excellent cellaring potential." Wine Advocate

"Notes of cherries and pepper leaves, with a hint of iodine. Opens juicy and taut on the palate, then expands in breadth and depth. Salty, juicy tannins and an officinal trace mark the finish is deep, big drink and long persistence." Luca Gardini

Luce Brunello is dark and impenetrable, as always in its more international style. On the palate, it delivers ripe and round fruit flavours of blackberries and plums with plenty of opulence, power and breed. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich and full-bodied, this juicy red shows aromas of cherry, blackcurrant and Mediterranean scrub, with hints of graphite, underpinned by muscular tannins that come through on the finish. Very balanced overall." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is generous and open in personality. It shows sweet cherries, dried raspberries, spices and fragrant roses." Wine Advocate

"Sparkling, rich ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Quite restrained on the nose, then opens up with notes of rose petals and tea, rich spicy components in the background. Firm and grippy on the palate, shows plenty of grippy tannin, substantial and structured, but still needs longer ageing." Falstaff

"A finely structured and concentrated Brunello with a complex palette of cherries, blackberries, dried roses, bark, liquorice and a hint of praline. Also iodine and oyster shells. Medium to full body with firm, very fine tannins. Nice texture and balance. Remains fresh and fine until the end. To be tasted from 2025." James Suckling

Fuligni's superb 2019 Riserva shows a beautiful tertiary intensity with wild berries and plums, followed by balsamic herbs, liquorice, grilled herbs and spices. We are delighted by the sheer opulence and richness of this wine, which remains pleasantly medium-bodied throughout, yet produces plenty of elegance and sufficient power on the other side. This Riserva from a top vintage never feels too heavy or too flat, but impresses with its disciplined energy and vitality. With each successive glass, the wine becomes a perfectly balanced world of modernity and tradition that is unrivalled in its wine form. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. On the nose, chalky, mineral sour cherry and raspberry with a complex, exotic-spicy note. Seductive purity of fruit on the palate. Lots of concentrated sweet red fruit, but with the right dose of tangy acidity and tactile, chewy tannins. Sensationally balanced." Jancis Robinson

"Fuligni's 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva shows its sultry and savoury side with medium-grained tannins and added structure surrounding a core of dark blackberry fruit. The alcohol content is high at 15%, but this full-bodied vintage does a very good job of hiding it. This Riserva finishes with notes of root beer and sauna wood." Wine Advocate

"The aromas of dried berries, orange peel and flowers lead to a medium body with ultra-fine tannins that blend well into the wine, giving it energy and length. Beautiful ripe fruit with a juicy and flavourful finish. A classic and beautifully proportioned young Brunello. Drinkable, but better after 2026 and beyond." James Suckling

"The Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2019 is a seductress with a multitude of cinnamon, cloves, allspice, black cherry and a hint of laurel. On the palate, Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is radiant and classic, with lively ripe red fruit and sweet spices, perfectly accompanied by a core of brilliant acidity. Its minerality emerges on the finish, which is tactile and salty. A web of fine-grained tannins envelops the senses with youthful balance, nuances of cedar and inner rose. The 2019 is captivating and made for the cellar. What a beauty." Vinous

"The Fuligni Riserva, which is only produced in vintages with ideal ripeness and a strong acid backbone to guarantee longevity, strives to fully express the characteristics of a vintage. The 2019 edition is a complete success with its fragrance, regal structure and inner glamour that illuminates the depth of the wine. Intense cherry, orange zest, truffles and forest roots are all on the nose. The fruit is unadulterated and even supple and sinuous, but the tannins have a countervailing bite. Spicy pomegranate resounds from the core of this elegantly weighted gem; everything is neatly in place and unfolds in a flavourful measured gait." Decanter