The Fanti 2016 Brunello di Montalcino comes roaring out with terrific intensity and balance. This vintage certainly marks a landmark for the Fanti family as I don't remember a new release as confident and impactful as this. The wine is round and smooth, with layers of dark fruit, cherry and spice. These various aromas blend nicely, showing the right contrasts where necessary. This is a classic expression of the vintage with some of the extra texture and power (a shorter aging is done in a combination of barrique and botte, with the rest in bottle) that defines this estate located in the Castelnuovo dell'Abata area. Production is 45,000 bottles.

Though light on its feet, this red evokes plenty of cherry, wild thyme, eucalyptus and tar flavors. A vibrant acidity drives the finish, while mature tannins mesh nicely, echoing the cherry theme. Best from 2023 through 2042. 3,750 cases made, 1,250 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add