Wines from Tuscany | Montalcino

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

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

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

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

Intense ruby red. Complex aromas of ripe black fruits and liquorice, rounded off with notes of tobacco and truffles. Soft and fresh on the palate, with an impressive texture. Velvety tannins and opulent mouth-filling lead this wine from an excellent vintage into a long and elegant final. A delicious, modern interpretation of Brunello, full of personality, brightness and sunshine! SUPERIORE.DE

"From vineyards at an altitude of 400 metres above sea level: On the nose, aromas of wild berries, lilac and pepper are pleasing; balanced texture with polish, racy tannin and noticeable acidity, vinified with precision, nuanced yet powerful final." Vinum

"Deep, smoky, earthy aroma, ripe cherries, blueberries, clear tobacco and spicy notes, chocolate, a touch of graphite. In the mouth immensely powerful and dense, everything seems to be in a higher gear, the supple fullness is supported by an acidity that seems to be chiselled as well as by fine-meshed tannins, powerful final. As in the previous year, of excellent quality, some find it too "modern", but you can't talk this wine down. Weinwisser

"Powerful ruby with fine garnet rim. Very compact nose with inviting notes of ripe, dark cherries, blackberries, fine spice in the background. Juicy and round in attack and course, shows a lot of present fruit, fine-meshed tannin in many layers, firm pressure in the final, compact." Falstaff

"Deep, lustrous ruby. Taut nose with rich cherry fruit underneath and a complex oak note. Full, yet sleek on the palate with lots of grainy tannins kept beautifully in check by the generous succulent cherry fruit. Ends full, concentrated and a little vibrant. The enormous alcohol of this wine simply goes unnoticed, until you look at the label." Jancis Robinson

"From the Frescobaldi family of Florence, the Luce della Vite (or Tenuta Luce) 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Luce is a wine of depth and intensity. This 2016 vintage goes further and offers more substance than most of the recent vintages we've seen. It reveals a dark color and appearance with cocktail cherry, balsam spice and a touch of white chocolate. The tannins are dry, but the wine compensates with a good dose of that concentrated fruit richness that defines this classic vintage." Wine Advocate

"Lighter in colour than the Luce, higher acidity even on the aromatics, gorgeously sculpted and nuanced, with kick and backbone. A savoury edge to the fruit, and strong spices, we are here at almost five years since harvest and you feel the softened tannins with tobacco and olive paste alongside still bright cherry fruits. This is sliding towards being ready to drink, although a few more years will really open things up." Decanter

"Pure black cherry, blackberry and black currant flavors abound in this rich red, supported by graphite, earth, wild rosemary and anise notes. Balanced and almost approachable now, yet the refined tannins and bright acidity should allow this to develop for decades." Wine Spectator

"Ripe, decadent aromas of blackberries, black truffles and black cherries with hints of violets. Dark, wet earth, too. Full-bodied with a solid core of beautiful, pure fruit and creamy, round and fine tannins. Tight and reserved, but showing wonderful potential." 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

"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

"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

The name Poggio al Granchio comes from the small pond in the centre of the vineyard, which is located under an imposing holm oak tree and is home to a number of freshwater crayfish that have landed with energy. It is the area with the highest vineyards on the hill of Montalcino. It is a vineyard that receives the morning sun and is exposed to the strong climatic influence of Monte Amiata (former volcano and sacred mountain of the Etruscans), which rises opposite. This area of Montalcino has rich Galestro soils, which are particularly good for Brunello. On Galestro, the Sangiovese becomes mineral and savoury, with silky tannins; on the nose it has notes of ripe undergrowth fruit combined with that unmistakable hint of flint that you can smell directly on the slate. On the palate, the wine has a subtle, elegant but assertive entry and proves to be flavoursome and mineral. The Brunello here is dark in colour and has great ageing potential.

Intense ruby red colour with violet hues. Powerful and spicy bouquet of fresh cherries, redcurrants, blackberries, aniseed and myrtle. On the palate, it has an unmistakably subtle Sangiovese typicity, the wonderfully varied primary flavours are flanked by long, silky tannins. It has a very flavoursome and mineral finish that only this region can give Sangiovese. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny ruby red with a sparkling centre. Cool nose of citrus, elderberries, reminiscent of cold butter, herbs and graphite. On the palate with grippy, youthful tannins, red fruit and good freshness, medium weight, still a little rough at the back." Falstaff

"A shade deeper than the Vigna del Lago and with orange-coloured reflections. It is also a little richer and riper, with plenty of deep plum fruit and spicy notes of black pepper. The tangy cherry fruit is lined with sandy tannins. Great balance and length." Jancis Robinson

"Pretty cherries and chocolate with some violets, leading to a medium body with fine tannins and an orange peel finish. Refined and beautiful." James Suckling

"Poggio al Granchio, which stretches south-east towards Monte Amiata, lies at an altitude of 450 metres on slate-rich Galestro soil. The area is characterised by warm days and cool nights, resulting in firmly structured wines. The 2019 is a virile wine that opens with smoky ash, incense and iron. On the palate, it shows blackberry and blackcurrant flavours wrapped in dusty, dry, stony earth. Pungent, gravelly tannins sprinkle the mouth, while the acidity provides a tangy bite. It gradually finishes with a rust-like aura." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino Poggio al Granchio 2019 draws the taster close to the glass to take in its beguiling aromas. Aromas of roses and cloves give way to cinnamon-dusted redcurrants and a hint of camphor. An elegant style with a silky texture and ripe, rich wild berries balanced by lively acidity. Salty minerals colour the palate as the 2019 finishes long and structured. It holds its power in reserve, while a pleasantly bitter note mingles with fine-grained tannins to create a youthfully exciting sensation. This is a Poggio al Granchio for the ages. Bury your bottles deep." Vinous

"A deep well of blackberry, blackcurrant and cherry fruit characterises this juicy red wine, with accents of wild rosemary and minerals. Well-structured and complex, with a long finish that reflects the fruit and savoury notes. Excellent balance and harmony." Wine Spectator

"This, one of the finest, nose of red currant, touches of rosemary and staranise, with hints of ginger. Lovely persistence." Luca Gardini

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

"Dark ruby red. In the nose a slight hint of strawberry, then of ripe cherries and wild berries, shows nuances of pomegranate and dried rose petal. Juicy and clear on the palate, stretches out in many layers, beautiful red fruit, with persistence." Falstaff

"Plum and black cherry aromas and flavors highlight this dense, muscular red, accented by wild herb, iron and sanguine notes. Staying vibrant and long, this is balanced, with the quality of tannins in line with the southwestern sector of Montalcino." Wine Spectator

"The Camigliano 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Paesaggio Inatteso is a tiny production of just 2,600 bottles, all drawn from a two-hectare site with sandy limestone, located apart from the estate's core vineyard block, which the Ghezzi family holds in special regard. Indeed, the character of this wine is quite different from the classic 2016 Brunello. I don't get those heavier aromas of asphalt or charred earth here. This wine is much softer in approach with delicate and pure fruit. Cherry, plum and dried raspberry cede to light spice and tobacco. Paesaggio Inatteso means "unexpected landscape" in Italian, and this wine does stand apart from the others in the Camigliano portfolio." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of forest floor, eucalyptus, violet and coffee bean take shape in the glass. Full bodied and savory, the firm palate doles out mouthfuls of ripe black cherry, mature plum, licorice and baking spice alongside enveloping, fine-grained tannins, a great showing." Wine Enthusiast

"A rich, decadent red with black-cherry and flower aromas, as well as citrus and crushed stone. Some wet bark, too. It's full-bodied, yet reserved and toned with nicely crafted tannins that melt into the wine. Vivid acidity. A poised, polished red." James Suckling

In the past, the northern slope of Montalcino was not planted with vines, but was cultivated with cereals, olives and cherries. In this area influenced by the Apennines, the seasons are more pronounced, continental and the north wind significantly lowers the temperature in winter. It is therefore the coldest Brunello region at this time of year, but also the wettest. This northern slope is a gentle hill: a characteristic that is more reminiscent of the Crete Senesi area, right next door, than the two stiffer, steeper and warmer southern slopes of Montalcino.

Due to the climate and the origin of the soil, the grapes in this area of Montalcino are harvested last every year. Vigna del Lago is the vineyard that welcomes all visitors travelling from the north of Montalcino. It takes its name from the lake that surrounds it and which plays a fundamental role in the microclimate of the area; the soil is a constant alternation between clay and strips of very fine Galestro.

Brunello Vigna del Lago is a historic cru from the Val di Suga winery, it is an old-school Brunello, from the times before the arrival of barriques and technology. An authentic product that is enjoying increasing demand. Unlike the Poggio al Granchio, which is aged in new Liters French barriques, this wine matures in large 30- and 50-hectolitre Slavonian oak barrels.

It is a wine with a low alcohol content, light orange-ruby colour, with very fine and almost imperceptible tannins, with a floral nose of citrus notes, myrtle and fresh cherries. It is a Brunello of great richness and balance and also has a very pleasant lightness, well-contoured acidity and a salty, mineral finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Cosy bouquet of flowers, herbs and black forest fruits; the attack is balanced, harmonious, with juice and suppleness right into the complex finish. convinces with its polish." Vinum

"A fragrant Brunello that convinces with small red and dark fruits and increasingly reveals floral notes with air. Amarena cherry, leather. On the palate, a fine melting style, polished, juicy, elegant, red berry spice and plum. Beautiful drinking flow that is already fun. It still has room for improvement." Weinwisser

"Almost a little developed, barrel-woody and tobacco-like aroma of predominantly black berries, some tar, ash, iodine and forest floor. Clear, straightforward, ripe, almost cool, predominantly red fruit, quite present, fine tannins, a certain acid bite, persistent on the palate, herbal and salty nuances, moderate barrel tones, again a little forest messenger, resinous traces, good depth, restrained power, elegant style, multi-layered, gains transparency and freshness with air, very good to long, firm, tart-juicy finish with fine spice." Wein-Plus

"Bright ruby red colour, radiant. Appealing, open nose of leather, rosehips, blood oranges, with fine precious wood and dark berry notes on the finish. Grippy, firm tannins on the palate, with plenty of juice and finesse" Falstaff

"Brilliant medium ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Balsamic and with just a hint of sour cherry and a touch of spice, and with brooding concentration. A sense of richness on the palate with plenty of cherry fruit framed by delicious, chewy tannins. Lots of depth. Ripe now, but with the potential to age further." Jancis Robinson

"The Vigna del Lago surrounds the Val di Suga winery in the north-west of Montalcino. The gently sloping vineyard lies on clay soil at 280 metres above sea level. The wine is aged exclusively in large Slavonian oak barrels with a capacity of 30 to 40 hectolitres in order to preserve the wonderful purity of the sweet fruit. The 2018 is subtly perfumed and exudes delicate aromas of white flowers and oranges that emphasise the scent of red berries. Light and lively, it is initially more reminiscent of a Rosso di Montalcino, but a powdery texture and its persistent mineral core add complexity." Decanter

"Smooth and juicy, with flavours of cherry, plum, sage and leather. Light and lively, with fine tannins on the finish. Shows excellent balance and length." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Lago is perfumed, with crushed blackberries and plums accompanied by minty herbs and a hint of smoke. It is silky-smooth yet racy in style, with masses of tart wild berries accompanied by vibrant acidity. Violet and lavender tones resonate, while the Vigna del Lago finishes structured and slightly chewy with silty tannins and a hint of bitter cocoa that lingers." Vinous

"The nose blends the adventurous aromas of leather, stone and coffee with lighter notes of vanilla, cherries and bitter orange peel. On the palate, a current of blood orange bolsters the cherry element, while the vanilla sweetness pushes back against a swelling bitter undertone. Taut tannins march into a warm finish." Wine Enthusiast

When the world-famous Oenologist Carlo Ferrini makes his own wine, you can't help but be excited. Here, he has succeeded in creating an interpretation of Sangiovese that brings all his experience from decades of working with this grape variety to the fore as if through a burning glass. The moderate use of wood through ageing in 700-litre tonneaux expresses the clarity and personality of the grape and the unique terroir (there are just 1.5 hectares of the best Brunello sites) in an archetypal way. A great harmony of dark cherries, black fruits, spices, leather and tobacco, ideally integrated tannins and great persistence will quickly make the few thousand bottles a sought-after collector's item. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, medium-dense ruby-garnet colour. Opens with notes of blood orange, fresh plum, black cherry, some rose petal in the background. Juicy and compact on the attack and on the palate, shows plenty of dense tannins, builds up in layers, dark cherry fruit, savoury pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red colour. Closed nose with a hint of Moroccan leather. Rich, tangy cherry with a hint of oak and polished but firm tannins. Very seductive and with the typical signature of Ferrini - the eternal suave. Long, but not quite open yet, and the tannins still need to dissolve a little into the fruit. Shows real potential and promise and is not uninteresting." Jancis Robinson

"For Carlo Ferrini, who normally advises numerous wineries in Tuscany and beyond, 2018 was a classic year. His Brunello is one of the shooting stars. The wine opens elegantly and full of finesse with red and dark blue fruit as well as a wonderful black cherry flavour and floral nuances. Wonderfully juicy on the palate with a fresh fruit presence. Subtly interwoven with delicate hints and the noble cedar notes of the wooden barrel ageing. Very precise yet intense with good concentration for the vintage and extremely silky, grippy tannins." Weinwisser

"Notes of farmyard, caramel, wood, cedar and toast on the nose. Vibrant sweet strawberry and red berry fruit on the palate, a hint of spiciness, bitterness and a creamy feel from the tannins. I like the gentle saltiness - wet stone and salt gracing the palate, and the sweetness with acidity that keeps everything so buoyant and cheerful. An extremely elegant expression, smooth, balanced and complete." Decanter

"Flavours of black cherries, violets, lavender and orange peel follow through to a medium to full body with ultra-fine tannins that run the length of the wine. So focussed and radiant. Agile and weightless on the finish. Not the greatest Giodo, but beautiful and precise." James Suckling

"Tasted at the Giodo estate in one of the most remote and beautiful areas of the appellation, surrounded by forests and sweeping panoramas, the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino gives us a promising taste of what we can expect from this warm vintage. The wine offers ripe but delicate flavours of cassis and dark cherries with nuances of lilac, violets and crushed limestone. The tannins are present and well integrated. Carlo Ferrini's Brunello promises a long ageing period." Wine Advocate

"The nose brings an umami sanguinity, with notes of tar, petrol and soil, but undertones of black cherries and blackberries make those aromas invigorating rather than harsh. The fruit ripens on the palate, but a slow-developing, spiced earthiness works with deliberate tannins and latent acid to maintain propriety." Wine Enthusiast

"The great project of the Ferrini family from Sant'Angelo in Colle, a Brunello characterised by constant excellence. Intense on the nose, with aromas of cranberry, fresh pepper leaf and blood orange peel, with earthy notes. Spicy sip, fruity and citrusy finish." Luca Gardini

Luce Brunello has been one of the icons in the large portfolio of Frescobaldi wines from Tuscany for years. The 2019 edition opens with great power and determination with ripe fruit flavours of blackberries and candied cherries. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and very harmonious thanks to the bright acidity and the overall quality of the primary fruit flavours of this excellent vintage. The tannins are well woven into the full-bodied density of the wine. Be sure to aerate or, better still, leave to mature for a few years in the cellar. SUPERIORE.DE

"Multi-layered aromas of ripe red fruits, spices, undergrowth and lilac; round, dense and with verve on the palate, racy tannins, combines juice and mineral character, fine tartness on the final. A successful blend of elegant juiciness and full-bodied substance." Weinwisser

"Rich, sparkling ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Memorable nose with lots of fleshy plum and blackberry fruit, plus rose petals and tobacco spice. Rich and juicy in the attack and on the palate, shows wonderfully integrated tannins, opens up in many layers, with a delicate minty final." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red with a light, brick-coloured rim. Complex, spicy-minty oak with firm cherry fruit underneath. Lots of youthful, tangy cherry fruit with a deep layer of chewy tannins. Very complete and beautiful." Jancis Robinson

"The Tenuta Luce 2019 Brunello di Montalcino has a good amount of oak spice with campfire ash, forest floor, dried cherry, cassis, rye bread and something floral like hydrangea or pressed roses. There is also a balsamic note with sambuca or aniseed. It is a medium to full-bodied Brunello with flavours of dried fruit and a considerable alcohol content of 15% on the long finish." Wine Advocate

"This ripe and opulent red wine is packed with flavours of black cherries, blackberries and plums and captures your attention from the first sip. Vibrant and solidly built, with notes of wild thyme, earth and sweet spices, it shows excellent balance and length and remains fresh and juicy on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Another intense year for the Brunello from Tenuta Luce. Elegance and spiciness on the nose, with notes of cranberry, peony and a hint of chinotto, with a hint of cinnamon on the finish. Salty on the palate, with hints of blueberries and floral notes." Luca Gardini

"Black cherries and blueberries with undertones of walnut and lavender. Medium-bodied with very fine tannins that run the length of the wine and caress every inch of the palate. Fresh and lively. A wine for the cellar, but already fantastic to savour now." James Suckling

Tasting the different lots of Il Marroneto from the barrel is a fascinating task. The vines are all similarly situated at high altitude, on coarse sand of marine origin, and predominantly north-facing. While they have subtle differences, the distinct character of Madonna delle Grazie often merits a separate bottling - as the 2018 proves. The aromas take on the darkest, most heady purple florals, tangled in allspice and smoky incense. The wine is muscular with firm tannins that grip it tightly and don't let go, though it is never beefy, heavy or angular. At the moment it is still developing, but the finish already reveals a refined balsamic core and a spicy, salted plum. SUPERIORE.DE

"Wonderfully clear-cut and multi-faceted on the nose, noble appearance, shows a lot of herbaceous-floral spice, white pepper, rose and violet blossoms, but also sour cherry and wild berries, behind it a dazzling peppery-spicy backdrop reminiscent of exotic spices. On the palate, enormously complex and finesse-rich with delicate, crisp fruit, carried by finely meshed tannin and a fantastically integrated acidity, wonderfully animating with beautiful spiciness and spice on the final. Once again belongs to the absolute top wines of the vintage." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, fine ruby red with a light rim. Extremely clear nose of ripe, dark cherries, rose petals and cloves, with some smoky notes in the background. On the palate, lots of sweet fruit, finely meshed tannin that is integrated into lots of melting, pithy and with firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Shiny, deep ruby red. A little closed, but with great purity of fruit on the nose. Waves of concentrated, intense fruit on the palate. Supple, elegant and generous at the same time, it shows true cru quality. Fantastic tannins accompanying the fruit on the finish. A classic. Can be drunk now, but will continue to develop for some time." Jancis Robinson

"This wine has an array of red and dark fruits with coffee, dark chocolate, sweet spices and upturned earth. Medium to full-bodied with fine tannins and a distinct dark berry character on the palate. A little dense and textured, with a firm and long finish that leaves notes of nutshells and crushed stones. Taste after 2025." James Suckling

"The single vineyard bottling of Il Marroneto is a selection of small, loose grapes, which manifests itself in the density of the fruit and the secure structure. Next to the winery's "classic" Brunello, it often shows a more earthy, autumnal face. The 2018 corresponds with scents of chestnut and undergrowth that combine with the fruity sweetness of the vintage. Long, suede-like layers of tannin envelop the fleshy black cherry. As the wine progresses, subtle traces of pepper, leather and incense emerge, suggesting more to come. Above all, Madonna delle Grazie embodies the most positive qualities of the vintage as it flows with agility and grace." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Madonna delle Grazie takes time to open up in the glass. It is complex and seductive with its musky redcurrants and savoury spices, but also with a hint of roses. A hint of sweet smoke emerges and contrasts beautifully. Its textures are like liquid velvet, with a chalky mineral tinge that comes on quickly and is perfectly balanced by a massive wave of dark red berries; yet the balance is expertly maintained by a streamlined acidity that creates a sense of total internal harmony. The 2018 leaves a structured impression, yet its tannins are silky and fine, coupled with a finish of violet pastille and lavender that I find very attractive. Remarkably, I have tasted this wine for the past two years and have accompanied this current bottle for 48 hours, never faltering and only increasing in depth and complexity. Il Marroneto's 2018 Madonna delle Grazie is undoubtedly one of the three best wines of the vintage. I take my hat off to Alessandro Mori and his team." Vinous

"The Il Marroneto 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Madonna delle Grazie shows elegance and power in one go. The fruit quality is crisp and tangy, but the wine supports a medium-heavy concentration and a more elaborate style. This vintage of Il Marroneto has two personalities. On the one hand, you get a wine with beautiful primary fruit but a little more immediate, and on the other, a wine that promises good ageing thanks to its freshness and silky tannins that melt on the palate. It is young, but also mature. It is racy, but also complex." Wine Advocate

"Alessandro Mori's Brunello is more of a historical legacy than a vineyard. On the nose, notes of blackcurrant jam, with nuances of bay leaf and white pepper. The mouthfeel is dense and savoury, with a return of fruit and sweet spices. Persistent." Luca Gardini