Tenuta Nuova Brunello di Montalcino Sangiovese

Not particularly impressive in the blind - blocky, lacking elegance, and clearly Italian. Had an inkling it was a Brunello given the group I was with. It did eventually reveal some delectable elements by the end of the night. Red-fruited and saline with some oaky spice, yet I felt its energy was drained by too much dry tannins, plum-ish and earthy characters. One to revisit, though my limited experience with this producer so far has been rather lacklustre.

raspberry bush, black cherry, rose oil, Mediterranean herbs ~ intense juicy tart n sour fruits that grow in the glass

This will be a great wine - steeped in sweet cocoa-laced sour cherry, balsamic - but please sock this away for 5 years, likely 95+

Always a favorite. Mid-full body, round, dry, craving some aged cheese.

Casanova di Neri was established in 1971 when Giovanni Neri acquired a large estate within Montalcino, and celebrating its 20th anniversary with the ‘13 vintage, with a special gold-label edition. A big wine, decant if you can’t cellar for a few years. Ruby with complex fruit, floral and citrus spice. On the palate cherry and raspberry flavors with spice, cacao and leather notes. Full-bodied, graceful tannins, lingering, well balance ending with elegance and a great mouthfeel.

Vinfanticide to be sure but fun to take a peek at what will be an epic wine. All the pieces there - sweet oak, sour cherry, saddle leather - but years from coming together.

Just the start of its drinking window. Wait at least another year if you have some. Well balanced and cherries galore.

This was super elegant. While time will be it’s friend, it was drinking incredibly well right now. mature nose and a palate driven by sun roasted raspberry. White pepper adds depth. Medium plus acidity, and longer finish. Sooo good

Oh yeah, I liked it

Cedar, tobacco nose. Medium plus body, cherry on palate. Spice on finish.