2021 Brunello di Montalcino

Complex and shapely, the Mastrojanni 2021 Brunello di Montalcino shows fluid contours that evolve with each swirl of the glass before settling into notes of cassis, dark cherry, spice, grenadine and grilled watermelon. The palate carries energy and brightness over a medium-to full-bodied frame, finishing with a subtle mineral saltiness that adds lift and definition. This classic village expression draws fruit from 14.4 hectares across varied soils, exposures and elevations, resulting in a balanced and expressive wine that remains very much in evolution.

The 2021 Brunello di Montalcino smolders up from the glass with a burst of crushed ashen stone and sage, giving way to mulling spice and dried black cherries. It envelops the palate with silken textures and masses of ripe dark red fruits, soothing, polished and balanced in feel. Edgy tannins mingle with a subtle citrus twang as rosy inner florals resonate through the dramatically long, youthfully structured finale. The balance here is beyond reproach. Mastrojanni blended in the juice from the Vigna Schiena d'Asino to bolster this bottling.

Mid ruby and already a little developed. Firm balsamic cherry fruit on the nose with the merest suggestion of gingerbread. Still a little closed. Elegant, fragrant cherry fruit with lots of acidity and fantastic, deep gravelly tannins. Ageworthy but already approachable. (WS)