Brunello di Montalcino 2016 is a far more interesting vintage than the 2015.
That’s not to say Brunello di Montalcino 2015 was not a very good vintage (as the top wines were exceptional) but, it promised so much and delivered so little that I found it disappointing.
The Brunello di Montalcino 2016 prove what Sangiovese in Montalcino is capable of achieving. The wines I have tasted so far are a pure expression of BDM (just as the 2016 vintage was for Chianti Classico). Not one element outshines another: fruit, acidity, tannins, nuances, aromatics, structure and potential all were in the right place.
It is an undeniable case of near perfect balance.
The Brunello di Montalcino 2015 Riserva are something of a surprise, they have a uniqueness about them, a subtle finesse that is totally engaging.
Perhaps they are the true hidden gems of the BDM 2015 vintage.
I believe the following two remarkable wines express my point:
Brunello di Montalcino Casanova di Neri Tenuta Nuova 2016
Brunello di Montalcino Casanova di Neri Cerretalto 2015.
Tasting notes:
BDM Casanova di Neri Tenuta Nuova 2016.
Ruby red in colour. Aromatics of exotic wood and blue flowers, black fruits and Marasca cherry, earth and black tea. A hair’s breadth off full bodied. Close knit tannins. Refreshing acidity. Finely sculpted. Purity of Sangiovese. Best since 2001 vintage!
Points 99 TW
BDM Casanova di Neri Cerretalto 2015
Intense ruby red with faint purple hew. Mixture of blackberries and rich warm red cherry, tar, liquorice, rose notes, fresh mushroom. Slightly smokey. Tannins dissolve into the wine yet, it remains structured. Superb intensity. Full bodied. Huge finesse. (2024 - 2050)
Points 98 TW
Tenuta Nuova is made with from a massal clone of Sangiovese from the Cerretalto vineyards, planted south of Montalcino.
Cerretalto vineyards are not far from Torrenieri, north west of Montalcino with soils of red clay and iron deposits. Altitude 400 mt a.s.l.
My full Brunello di Montalcino review and tasting notes will follow. TW
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