The 2012 Rosso di Montalcino opens to an impressive show of concentration followed by an equally intense aromatic profile, derived in part from ten months of oak aging. It consists of ripe fruit, spice, creme de cassis and an odd note of tomato vine or ripe persimmon. The feeling imparted on the palate is raw, chewy and ripe. Drink: 2014-2018. As I have said elsewhere in this report, Andrea Cortonesi is one of my favorite Brunello producers. He is also one of the first estates I visited years ago as a young wine writer and it has been a privilege to watch his career take off in such spectacular fashion. I remember his small basement winery on that first visit and every time I go by his property today, I am surprised and encouraged by signs of recent construction and expansion. If anyone embodies the amazing growth of Brunello di Montalcino that person is Andrea. Importers: Marc De Grazia Imports, www.marcdegrazia.com

Rich and riddled with cherry and raspberry flavors, this lush Rosso balances furry tannins with a persistent, tobacco-tinged aftertaste. Drink now through 2020. 1,916 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Rosso di Montalcino Select to Add