“2016 Brunello di Montalcino: More of the vintage we have been waiting for” Vinous.
“If I had to think of one way to universally describe the majority of wines from the 2016 vintage, I would offer that they are like a well-muscled black stallion in its prime. They are dark yet radiant, expressive, nearly explosive at times, yet pure, poised and structured. These are wines that capture your imagination; and no matter how youthfully tense they are today, you simply can’t help but revisit a glass over and over again; because in many cases, the aromatics alone are intoxicating. I frankly cannot remember the last time I tasted young wines from Montalcino that possessed such symmetry from start to finish. The best part is that this success was widely spread throughout the region” Vinous.
Is There Really Any Such Thing as a Perfect Vintage?
“Many producers throughout Montalcino would say that there is, and the example that they would give you would be the 2016 vintage. To quote Francesco Ripaccioli of Canalicchio di Sopra in the northern eastern part of Montalcino, “If we could control the climate of a vintage artificially, I believe that I would program it to be just like the year 2016.” Vinous
Poggio Landi Brunello di Montalcino Chiuso del Lupo 2016. $TBD Late March arrival
95 Points Wine Spectator
“Though reserved in aroma, this red boasts ample cherry, black currant, violet and mineral flavors, with underlying woodsy accents. The vibrant structure lends definition, and this is more about finesse than power. Shows fine length, with a chalky feel. Best from 2023 through 2042.”
The Rise of Rosso di Montalcino
A continuing trend developing throughout the region is a new importance placed upon the production of Rosso di Montalcino. Producers often look to new single-vineyard wines or selections from within their vineyards or wineries to create Rossos that can take things to another level. The more lenient rules for producing Rosso make it very easy for winemakers to make far superior wines than the category was originally intended for.
The Rosso di Montalcino DOC permits a producer to use fruit from their Brunello-designated vineyards for Rosso or to make a barrel selection within the cellar and release a wine after only 10 months of aging. Rosso must be 100% Sangiovese and can be refined in any combination of concrete, stainless steel or wood. A next-level Rosso di Montalcino could be the answer to producers having trouble creating a classic Brunello in the face of global warming or wanting to appeal to a new generation that have no interest in cellaring wines for decades before drinking them.
Poggio Landi Rossi di Montalcino 2021 $TBD Late March arrival
90 Points Vinous Media
“A blend of savory herbs, leather and black cherries wafts up from the 2021 Rosso di Montalcino. Its silky in texture, yet with a pronounced acidity that creates a reverberation of tension, as tart red fruits and mineral tones add further contrast.
The 2021 leaves as staining primary concentration, along with a coating of fine tannins, while finishing with admirable length. Give this zesty Rosso at least a year in the cellar to even out a bit and blossom aromatically , as it has balance to evolve very nicely. “