2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva

Like many other producers in the appellation, Altesino jumped forward from the 2017 Riserva directly to this vintage. The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva shows more density and overall fruit weight. The wine also reveals thick textural heft and, ultimately, more dark fruit sweetness. It gives us a much bigger and richer interpretation of Sangiovese. Production is 12,000 bottles.

Dark, maturing ruby with bricky rim. Balsamic, deep nose that is not fully open to the fruit and with hints of eucalyptus and a suggestion of morocco leather. Deep, savoury-sweet cherry fruit and finely ground, long tannins. Dense and long and layered and with supple acidity. You’d think you could approach this now, but I would wait another year. A real balancing act. (WS)

The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is dark and brooding, with hints of black tea leaves, crushed rocks and smoke before giving way to the scent of dried black cherry. It balances silken textures with a pure mix of ripe red and black fruits as cooling acidity maintains a lovely balance. Aromas of citrus-laced blackberries mix with sage and nuances of licorice. This finishes long and potent yet still quite fresh.