I don't think I've ever attended a tasting with as much positive energy as last Thursday's Bellissimo Brunello event, though it's easy to understand why. The 2007 and 2006 vintages for Brunello truly are amazing and showed extremely well that night. When I mentioned to James Suckling how I felt a handful of the wines possibly deserved a point or two more, he explained how he reviewed these wines during the cold and dampness of the winter. So perhaps it was the spring warmth or the extra few months in bottle, but he agreed the wines performed up to, and possibly beyond their expectations Thursday night creating a wonderful and electric experience.
It was fun hearing participants discuss whether they preferred the juicy and fruity forwardness of the opulent 2007s, or the structure and subtle complexity of the regal 2006s. The wines of Altesino, a reference point Brunello producer, demonstrated wonderfully the difference in both the vintages and designations. Their 2007 Montosoli was full of dark fruits enveloped in milk chocolate that melted in your mouth. Their 2006 Riserva displayed cocoa and dark fruit as well, but you had to take notice of the floral aromatics that mingled with hints of dried mushrooms.
Besides the attendees, it was wonderful seeing the producers enjoying themselves as well. And why shouldn't they? Giacomo Neri's '07 Tenuta Nuova and '06 Cerretalto Riserva as well as Vincenzo Abbruzzese's '07 Valdicava and '06 Madonna del Piano Riserva were off the charts! It was easy to understand why they poured with smiles on their faces and why their wines are considered benchmark Brunellos year in and year out.
The event also was a wonderful way for tasters to experience stylistic differences. Fuligni, a producer from the north that leans more towards tradition, poured wines that showed equal parts red and dark fruits like strawberry, cherries and blackberries, with lovely notes of flowers, herbs, and black tea. Fanti's 2007 on the other hand could be completely summed up by three descriptors Suckling used: "blueberries...bacon...opulent... and I would recommend this wine to any Rhone Ranger lovers.
If there was one thing to take away from last week's event, it is that the two vintages offer something for everyone. The smartest thing one could do is buy some of each vintage, having the 2007s to enjoy while allowing the 2006 Riservas to properly age and show their true expression in years to come. With most wines selling for under $100, it makes this completely feasible and displays why Brunello is one of the best values in the world of fine wine.
If you missed the Bellissimo Brunello event, do not fear. We have an extensive selection of 2007 and 2006 Riservas to choose from. Your salesperson will be happy to put together a sampling for you. If you don't have a salesperson, please call 800.946.3947 to speak with one today, so you don't miss out. We look forward to working with you and helping you enjoy these truly Bellissimo Brunello!