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Aromas of blackberries, flowers, spicy wood and black cherries. Sweet fruit. Full-bodied with round, refined tannins and gorgeous fruit. It’s really long and intense. Wonderful clarity and focus at the end of this. Drink after 2025.James Suckling | 96 JSUnderbrush, ripe black-skinned fruit and camphor aromas mingle with whiffs of toasted nut and vanilla on this full-bodied red. Boasting concentrated flavors but also weightless finesse, the elegant, structured palate delivers delicious red berry, licorice, tobacco and the barest hint of game alongside noble tannins and fresh acidity. It’s already tempting but will also age beautifully for years. Drink 2023–2036.Wine Enthusiast | 95 WE

Dried leaves and roots, bark, walnut husks and black olives. Plenty of savory notes. Great depth of flavor, too. On the palate there’s more walnut, chocolate, black cherry and olive. It’s full bodied with firm, fine-grained tannins. Wonderful depth here. Drink after 2024.James Suckling | 96 JSThe 2016 Vigna Spuntali Brunello di Montalcino is the most brooding of the lineup from Val di Suga and is sourced from the southwest of the region on sandy soils. There are aromatics of black raspberry, licorice, menthol, sage, cinnamon, and iron-rich earth. Its Mediterranean influence is felt on the palate with ripe black cherry, dried herbs, and sun-baked earth. This is the fullest bodied and most savory of the Val di Suga lineup, with more roundness and grip. Its structure will benefit from cellaring for several years and will be great drinking over the next 20 years or more. 2026-2040.Jeb Dunnuck | 96 JDThe 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Spuntali from Tenimenti Angelini - Val di Suga opens up slowly in the glass. Its understated bouquet focuses on bright red fruits and florals with hints of cedar and a dusting of confectioners’ spice. Silky in texture, cast upon a medium-bodied frame, the 2016 impresses more on purity than power, with a display of wild strawberry and salty minerals which pepper the senses. Tension builds, as crystalline tannins penetrate deeply, clenching the palate in youthful poise yet with a coating of concentrated primary elements here that tempt the imagination. The Spuntali spends one year in barrique, followed by another in large French casks.Vinous Media | 95 VMFull of ripe cherry, plum and floral aromas and flavors, this red delivers plenty of energy and focus. Backed by a dense swath of tannins, this remains balanced and elegant through the lingering finish. The fruit element is the lasting impression. Best from 2024 through 2045. 250 cases imported.Wine Spectator | 95 WSOn the luminous slopes of Montalcino’s southwest, Vigna Spuntali is characterised by sandy soils. Winemaker Andrea Lonardi explains that this yields bigger berries than schist or clay. In some vintages, like 2016, he bleeds off 10-15% of the juice to give more density. Very Mediterranean in personality, it explodes with thyme, oregano, mint and sage blossom. There’s a lusciousness to the palate which exhibits exotic red fruit and a salty lick. Sandy tannins lend textural complexity to this radiant Brunello. Drinking Window: 2024 - 2038Decanter | 94 DEC

Dusty notes with crushed gravel and dried tea leaves are a prelude to aromas of fresh button mushrooms and hints of fennel. Savory mushrooms and olives, followed by firm, fine-grained tannins. Structured and full-bodied...James Suckling | 94 JSAromas of iron, blood and cherry lead off in this smooth and vibrant red, with a well of dark fruit—black cherry and blackberry—settling in on the palate. Offers a dusting of dark chocolaty tannins on the finish. Best from 2023 through 2043. 1,500 imported cases.Wine Spectator | 93 WSThere’s something savory and slightly rustic about the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino that I find quite attractive. Baked black cherries, balsamic spice and hints of animal musk form up to create a beguiling display. The textures are silky-smooth, with cooling acids and salty minerals lifting the expression while giving way to tart red fruits. Tannins mount, slowly drying out the senses yet there’s still plenty of pleasure to be found here today, as the 2016 comes across as both youthfully structured but also spicy and fresh. This is a blend of Val di Suga’s vineyards throughout Montalcino, refined all in large Slavonian oak.Vinous Media | 92 VMBringing together grapes from diverse vineyards throughout Montalcino, this midweight, almost-approachable Brunello is focused and vibrant. It takes a bit of coaxing on the nose then divulges sage, orange rind and fennel. Brisk acidity and chalky tannins meet crisp red currant and cranberry, cleansing the palate nicely. A delightful jumping off point to Val di Suga’s single-vineyard offerings, which COO and winemaker Andrea Lonardi has been refining since 2012.Decanter | 91 DECSavory and bright, this has delicate, pretty aromas recalling woodland berry, forest floor and cedar. On the already accessible palate, lithe tannins accompany red cherry, coffee bean and white pepper before a drying finish. Tangy acidity keeps it fresh. Drink through 2026Wine Enthusiast | 90 WE

Fluid cherry, currant and raspberry flavors are matched to dense, dusty tannins in this taut red, which shows wild herb, tobacco and mineral elements that peek through as everything plays out on the lingering, tactile finish. Best from 2025 through 2043. 550 cases made, 170 cases imported.Wine Spectator | 96 WSThis is very traditional, with aromas of cedar, mushrooms, walnuts and dark cherries that follow through to a full-bodied yet tight and very tailored palate with intense tannins that are polished and very long. Please give this at least three or four years to open. Try after 2024.James Suckling | 96 JSA mix of mentholated herbs, sweet smoke, sour cherries, and cedar spice box creates a dazzling, lifted bouquet as the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Pian di Conte blossoms in the glass. It’s polished and elegant, communicating prestige through its seamless textures, as mineral-tinged red and black fruits wash across the palate, leaving nuances of sour citrus and balsam herbs. There’s simply so much going on that you hardly notice the fine-grained tannins taking hold, clenching the expression with youthful grip. This tapers off like a black hole of structural depth, leaving hints of currant and violet inner florals to carry on. The Riserva of Talenti is a barrel selection that refines in a combination of 25- and 20-hectoliter oak barrels, along with a small amount in tonneaux, for 36 months. To be frank, it’s not always my favorite wine from this estate, but that said, the 2016 takes things to another level.Vinous Media | 95 VMProduced from the estate’s oldest vineyards – predominantly southeast-facing plots at 400 metres – Talenti’s 2016 Riserva is all very charmingly animated on the nose. Vanilla and cinnamon accents play well with sweet herb nuances of mint and basil. The palate demonstrates its darker side with cedar-tinged plum and black cherry fashioning a dense core. This is firmly cinched yet still pliable, displaying precision throughout although the heat rises on the finish. Aged in a combination of large Slavonian oak casks and 500-Litre French oak tonneaux for a total of 6,600 bottles.Decanter | 95 DECThe Talenti 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Pian di Conte is a classic, stately wine with lots of dark fruit, dried blackberry, spice, tobacco and balsam herb. The wine registers 15% alcohol, which puts a lot of extra muscle mass on these otherwise elegant fruit tones, thus subtracting from some of the grace of the vintage. Production sees 6,600 bottles and some larger formats as well.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 94 RPCamphor, French oak, underbrush and blue flower aromas shape the nose along with leather notes. Bold and brawny, the enveloping, concentrated palate features mature plum, spiced blueberry, licorice and espresso set against close-grained, velvety tannins. Drink 2024–2029Wine Enthusiast | 92 WE

Enticing aromas of menthol, ripe dark-skinned fruit, new leather and sandalwood lead the way. Boasting a heady combination of power and finesse, the full-bodied palate doles out ripe black cherry, raspberry jam, licorice and tobacco framed in firm, velvety tannins. Fresh acidity keeps the richness in check. Drink 2024–2036.Wine Enthusiast | 95 WEThe La Fiorita 2016 Brunello di Montalcino unfolds to dark fruit, cherry, tobacco and sweet spice. This wine shows very nicely, thanks to the balance of its fruit, and is characterized by a delicate sweet note that recalls cassis and wild raspberry. The wine is open and accessible from the start, and that bodes well for those who don’t care to wait and age their Brunello too long. Indeed, I could see this wine matched up nicely to a wood-oven flatbread with shaved truffles layered generously on top. This wine draws its fruit from two sites, Poggio al Sole and Pian Bossolino, and ages in Slavonian oak casks for 24 months. Production is 21,500 bottles.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 94+ RPThis is a full-bodied, juicy red with ripe plums, dried cherries, cedar and a touch of milk chocolate. Dried roses and leather. Silky tannins and a long, focused finish. Some tile undertones. Drink after 2022.James Suckling | 94 JSDark fruit flavors of plum and blackberry highlight this angular red, shaded by earth, tobacco and underbrush notes. Leans toward a tar element as it winds down, ending with assertive, yet nervous tannins. Best from 2024 through 2040. 2,000 cases made, 750 cases imported.Wine Spectator | 93 WSThe elegant 2016 Brunello di Montalcino boasts a beautiful blend of pure fruits and perfumed aromatics. A dusty mix of wild strawberries, cherries, sage and cedar makes for an understated yet pretty display. It’s medium in body, and the textures are creamy in feel, with a polished display of red and black fruits offset by a twang of sour citrus, as inner florals build toward the close. The tannins here are sweet and nuanced, even as they create a classically dry expression; yet there’s plenty of residual energy to make this a knockout Brunello to enjoy over the medium term.Vinous Media | 91 VMThe 2016 Brunello was aged for two years in large Slavonian oak before resting in bottle. It is noted by soft floral aromas of black plum, lavender, and sweet licorice. The palate is full and approachable, with ripe cherry fruit, cocoa powder, and dried herbs as well as velvety tannins. Enjoy 2021-2030.Jeb Dunnuck | 91 JDWith nine hectares of vineyards spread over four distinct vineyards, owner Natalie Oliveros started converting the estate to organics in 2011. Full certification was achieved in 2019, the same year the new gravity-fed winery was completed. Lively red cherry and wild strawberry express cheerfully out of the gate backed up by allspice and rose. The fruit is sweet and sun-drenched but not overripe. Velvety and fluid with ample brightness and fine, powdery tannins, this is ready to go. Drinking Window 2021 - 2029.Decanter | 91 DEC

The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino La Cerbaiola grows in intensity in the glass, with delicate aromas that are especially floral and light in character. Instead of blackberry or blackcurrant, this elegant wine delivers cassis and cranberry. Instead of overt spice, you get licorice, balsam herb and camphor ash. The Salvioni house style is ethereal and light, and although that extra vintage ripeness and concentration does register on the palate, farming and winemaking at this estate puts an emphasis on acidity over power or structure. These choices were particularly important in 2017.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 95 RPRoses upon roses, wild strawberries, dusty cedar spice box, mint leaf and a hint of wet stone open the stage for the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino from Salvioni. This is beauty personified in wine, and it’s completely atypical for the harshly warm and dry vintage conditions. It fleshes out across the palate like fine silk, concentrated and poised, yet without a hard edge in sight, as cherries and plums give way to mounting minerality and sweet tannins toward the close. The 2017 boasts a crystalline structure and dramatic inner floral perfumes, as hints of cranberry and clove taper off. While this may not show the impeccable grace of the most classic vintages, it’s a darling all the same and has medium-term cellaring potential.Vinous Media | 94 VMWhen I visited Alessia Salvioni at the end of August 2017, she said the challenge for the imminent harvest would be avoiding dried grapes. The grapes were brought in on 12 September, approximately 10 days earlier than average. Aromas of sun-kissed cherries and blackberry speak to the warmth but there’s no sign of over-ripeness. Pepper, sage and cedar add fragrant intrigue, while the palate is surprisingly lean and sinewy, demonstrating Sangiovese’s lightness. Very direct in its delivery, its gritty tannins will need a bit of time but I don’t see this as one of Salvioni’s most long-lived vintages. Drinking Window: 2023 - 2029Decanter | 92 DEC

Made with certified-organic fruit, the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is an impossibly graceful wine from a challenging vintage. This bottle defies the odds—and the dry heat of the growing season—to reveal soft layers of cherry, cassis and more vibrant fruit. It glides clear over the palate with silky momentum, and you only notice the tannins at the very end. Even those should soften and integrate as this collectible wine continues it bottle evolution. Production is 19,000 bottles.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 97 RPThis is one of those wines that you feel compelled to drink, not just taste. The nose entices with scents of red cherry, vine-ripened tomato and a hint of blood orange. The texture is smooth and harmonious, with no sharp edges but plenty of verve. Subtle spice notes are perfectly integrated, energizing the vivid fruit flavors and coaxing you to take another sip. Beautifully refined and balanced, it is hard to resist now, yet will give pleasure over many years to come.Wine & Spirits Magazine | 96 W&SA captivating mix of ripe plums, strawberries, cloves, violet pastille, balsam herbs and white smoke emanates from the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino. This is undeniably elegant in feel, showing a weight unexpected from a young Poggio di Sotto, yet working in perfect harmony, with tart cherries and wild berries drenching the palate in primary concentration, as saline-minerals and brisk acids add energy and verve. There’s simply so much going on here that each return to the glass reveals something new. The tannins are sweet and rounded, and while structured, this remains fully satiating and fresh, as hints of lavender and black currant slowly fade. It’s totally atypical of a young Poggio di Sotto, yet also a wonderfully unique expression of the vintage, one that should mature evenly in spite of the drastic climatic conditions. In order to create the best wine possible, severe selection reduced production by 40%, and there will be no Riserva from 2017, as all of that juice was added to the Brunello. What’s more, winemaker Luca Marrone chose to shorten the aging in wood by an entire year. It may not be classic in style, but the 2017 is a wine that’s not to be missed.Vinous Media | 95 VMCherries and orange peel with cedar and pine undertones. It’s full yet fresh and lightly chewy with some citrus at the end. Shows tension and firmness for the vintage with a pretty form and purity. From organically grown grapes. Better after 2022.James Suckling | 94 JSPoggio di Sotto made 50% less wine in 2017 and will not release a Riserva. Maceration times were shorter than usual – just 25 to 30 days for the Brunello. It also spent three rather than four years in wood to avoid over-concentration. Aromas of steeped red berry infused with dried thyme and scorched orange peel make a heady first impression. The palate is mouth-filling and shows lovely purity of cherry and raspberry at the core. Concentrated in acidity with finely powdered, finessed tannins, this reveals just a hint of astringency on the orange liqueur and amaro finish.Decanter | 94 DECBright flavors of strawberry, cherry and currant are at the core of this elegant red, which is balanced and long, with a fresh aftertaste evoking fruit and mineral hints. Firm, yet refined tannins should give this structure to evolve over the next decade and more. Best from 2024 through 2042. 1,583 cases made, 240 cases imported.Wine Spectator | 93 WSAromas of eucalyptus oil, oak-driven spice, coconut and forest floor take shape in the glass. The medium-bodied but rather concentrated palate offers crushed raspberry, sour cherry and licorice alongside fine-grained tannins before a coffee bean close. It’s already almost accessible, so don’t leave this in the cellar for too long. Drink 2024–2029.Wine Enthusiast | 91 WE

The freshness and the floral aromas with citrus fruit and berries are startling for a 2017. The palate is full and extremely refined with elegant tannins and vivid fruit and orange-peel undertones. Racy and bright at the finish. Drink or hold.James Suckling | 96 JSHere’s a handsome bottle inside and out. The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Luce is an exuberant and flashy expression of Sangiovese. Just like the etched label design that features sunbeams, the wine radiates fresh fruit, cherry, spice, tar, licorice and grilled herb. The house style favors a contemporary and rich style of Sangiovese, and the wine’s velvety approach is measured against the ample texture and fruit weight presented here. This warm 2017 vintage is well interpreted by the folks at Tenuta Luce (even with that high 15% alcohol). Production is 30,000 bottles.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 94 RPGorgeous aromas on the nose, cola, cherries and exotic sweet spices. Lovely intensity straight away, piercing, finely detailed and driven. Wild strawberries, cherries and raspberries combined with dried scrubland mingling together to give both fruit and savoury aspects while the acidity keeps things lifted and bright. I love the freshness with the hit of sweet cherry and cola. Nuanced and giving. Still a touch of wood spice on the finish giving things a piquance and reminding you that this is a 14.5% alcohol wine and is one to be taken seriously. Excellent ageing potential.Decanter | 94 DECUnderbrush, violet and baked plum are some of the aromas you’ll find on this bold red. Big and savory, the warm palate is brawny but polished, offering fleshy black cherry, licorice and tobacco framed in velvety, enveloping tannins. It’s already almost accessible but also offers good midterm aging potential. Drink through 2027.Wine Enthusiast | 92 WEA rich red, this boasts cherry, plum, leather, tobacco, bitter almond and herb flavors. Taut and dense, with brisk acidity and dusty tannins that truncate the finish for now. Traditional style. Best from 2025 through 2040. 2,500 cases made, 117 cases imported.Wine Spectator | 91 WSNo written review provided. | 90 W&S

Under the leadership of Maria Flora Fuligni since 1971, along with her long-time right-hand Dr Daniela Perino - now the estate’s CEO - Fuligni is one of the denomination’s most consistent performers. The 2018 does not disappoint: it epitomises the elegance of the vintage. A captivating synthesis of florals and earth, the nose radiates pressed violet, lavender and rose with truffle and tobacco accents. It expands in the mouth with flavour rather than weight or brawn. Red currants and orange are amplified by piercing acidity, and well-formed, magnificently textured tannins are chalky and adequately padded, giving layers and profundity. Not pushed beyond its capacity, this will drink beautifully over the next decade.Decanter | 96 DECA fine Brunello with black cherry, hazelnut and chocolate aromas and flavors. Very perfumed. Medium-bodied with a pretty texture and delicious finish. Lovely fine tannins. Not the most structured red but will improve with age while delivering wonderful pleasure now. Drinkable but better after 2023.James Suckling | 94 JSIt takes a good amount of time for the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino to open in the glass, as a cloud of white smoke gives way to a sweetly scented mix of dried roses, sugar-dusted cherries and hints of exotic spice. This is a round and supple 2018, communicating elegance through its velvety textures, polished ripe red fruits and cascading inner violet florals. There’s opulence here, yet also the acidity to balance, as the 2018 tapers off long with classically refined tannins, yet leaves the palate perfectly reset for another sip. Frankly, it’s hard to put this glass down. There will be no Riserva produced in 2018, and so all of that juice was used to bolster this open-knit and seductive Brunello.Vinous Media | 93 VMNo written review provided. | 92 W&S

This elegant, juicy red packs a core of pure cherry shaded by accents of wild herbs, licorice and earth. Charming and harmonious, with the fruit echoing on the lingering aftertaste, revealing a mineral element at the very end. Best from 2025 through 2042. 1,080 cases made, 300 cases imported.Wine Spectator | 94 WSThe Val di Suga 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Poggio al Granchio (with 10,000 bottles made) opens to a pretty dark appearance and a much brighter quality of fruit (compared to Vigna del Lago) with plump cherry, black-currant and dark plum. Fruit comes from a higher elevation site at 450 meters above sea level, and this might make the difference. The wine is rather lean in terms of mouthfeel, with dusty tannins and chalky mineral sensations. Its structure is soft, generally speaking, and the wine is ready to go straight out of the gate.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 93 RP

Forest berry, spice, hay and menthol aromas mingle with whiffs of new leather on this stunning, fragrant Brunello. A top-scorer vintage after vintage, the 2018 combines elegance and a full body, delivering dried cherry, blood orange, licorice and ground clove alongside firm but refined tannins. Bright acidity keeps it energized while a saline mineral note adds depth to the finish. Drink 2026–2038. Kerin O’Keefe | 97 KORoasted herbs, walnuts, olives, dried cherries and balsamic on the nose with a touch of leather and sage. It’s full-bodied with firm, finely-knit tannins. Creamy and so well integrated with depth and class. Try after 2024.James Suckling | 95 JSThis 2018 Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona in the Castelnuovo dell’Abate zone in the southeast of the appellation produces wines that combine power and elegance. The 2018 is medium ruby colored with plenty of sweet oak-spice and bright, red cherry fruit here and there. There’s lots of charm on the palate and it is a wine that is very gracefully melded together. There is a beautifully refined quality to the tannins. The finish is lingering, creamy and elegant. This wine has so much charm and drinkability. It is not huge wine but it accurately reflects the vintage and it is very appealing.The Wine Independent | 95 TWIThe 2018 Brunello di Montalcino turns out beautiful results if you choose to drink the wine now, or if you opt to age it a little longer. It offers immediate intensity and complexity with a prelude of red and purple berry fruits that follow to tarry spice, campfire ash, licorice and rusty nail. Those savoy tones are well measured against the wine’s elegant, mid-weight finish. And the tannins are integrated seamlessly. The winemaking team has worked well in a challenging vintage. This is a large production of 80,000 bottles.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 94 RPDense and brooding, revealing plum, cherry, earth, menthol and tobacco flavors. On the austere side today, with buried fruit and dominant tannins, yet this has fine equilibrium and extended length. Best from 2026 through 2043. 4,833 cases made, 2,383 cases imported.Wine Spectator | 93 WSSweet cherry, vanilla bean and orange zest are on the nose, which slowly opens to reveal quieter aromas of cured meat and graphite. The palate emphasizes the savory with more sanguine notes pointed up by crisp fruit flavors of red apple skin and Bing cherry, emphasized by well-articulated tannins. Wine Enthusiast | 93 WEThe 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is dark and brooding, taking its time to blow off a whiff of mocha before opening up with a mix of dried red fruits, cloves and rosemary. This is surprisingly pure and lifted in style while maintaining elegance, as ripe red and black fruits cascade across a core of vibrant acidity. The 2018 leaves the palate buzzing with residual tension, as fine-grained tannins penetrate deeply, and hints of tart wild berry and a dusting of cocoa slowly fade.Vinous Media | 92 VM

The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino offers a full and generous personality with layers of dark fruit, cola, rosemary and balsam herb. This is a medium to full-bodied Sangiovese with lots of ripe fruit, soft tannins and rich texture. Like many of the Brunellos from this vintage, this wine offers an accessible side that makes it easy to drink without waiting too much longer. Production is 40,000 bottles.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 93 RPA darkly floral bouquet of musky red currants and hints of savory spice wafts up from the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino. It’s silky and pliant, with herbal-tinged red and black fruits that flow across a core of saline-minerality. The 2018 finishes long and staining to the senses, with a web of fine tannins offset by hints of citrus-tinged blackberry. There’s an underlying power here seldom seen in the 2018 vintage, but patience will be required.Vinous Media | 93 VMThe 2018 Brunello Di Montalcino is modest and elegantly styled, with raspberry liqueur, fresh herbs, and rose hip. Medium-bodied and driven by orange citrus pith, strawberry, cloves, and dusty tannins, it is a finessed and cooling example from the vintage. Drink 2024-2036.Jeb Dunnuck | 92+ JDPorcini mushrooms, cherry stones, iodine and some beetroot here. Savory and chewy, with a medium body and firm tannins. A little tight and austere at the finish. Should soften. Try in 2023.James Suckling | 92 JS

Cloves, sandalwood, dried mushrooms, currants and spearmint on the nose. It’s polished with firm, fine tannins and a full body. Creamy, savory finish with some ashy minerality. Drink after 2024.James Suckling | 93 JSExotic and spicy from the first tilt of the glass, the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino wafts up with a bouquet of sweet herbal tones, woodland berries and wet stones. It’s round and supple in feel, as ripe strawberry and red plum are complemented by hints of autumnal spice. This finishes only lightly structured, almost transparent in feel, pinching at the cheeks with silty tannins, as nuances of clove and dried black cherries slowly fade. The 2018, an incredibly pretty yet delicate Brunello from Caprilli, is sure to win a lot of hearts.Vinous Media | 92 VMNoting average temperatures 5°C less than in 2017, Giacomo Bartolomei says he was able to wait until mid-September to start harvesting the 2018. His Brunello is a slimmer, trimmer version compared to the last three vintages but still captures the essence of Tavernelle, where Caprili’s south-facing vineyards look towards the sea. It speaks softly of spiced red plum and potpourri. Somewhere between mid-weight and full, it remains light on its feet while its clayey tannins expand and build across the palate, bringing the wine to a saline finish.Decanter | 92 DEC

Intense aromas of black cherries, lavender and spice, such as nutmeg. Some sandalwood and bark, too. Full-bodied with a solid core of fruit and tannins for the vintage. Rather chewy, suggesting that additional bottle age is needed. Try after 2026.James Suckling | 96 JSDepths of dark, balsamic-tinged black cherry, plum sauce and autumnal spice make the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino impossible to ignore. This is velvety to the core, nearly opulent in feel, with a dense wave of ripe red fruits complemented by nuances of sweet lavender and tobacco. It leaves the palate clenched with fine tannins and primary concentration, creating a classic sensation that transcends the vintage. Nearly a minute goes by, and hints of cocoa and sweet herbs continue to resonate. Wow! Production at the Pertimali estate was down by 20% due to the spring frost, and the decision was made to place all of the juice usually intended for the Riserva into the straight Brunello, the result being one of the top wines of the vintage.Vinous Media | 95 VMDepths of dark, balsamic-tinged black cherry, plum sauce and autumnal spice make the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino impossible to ignore. This is velvety to the core, nearly opulent in feel, with a dense wave of ripe red fruits complemented by nuances of sweet lavender and tobacco. It leaves the palate clenched with fine tannins and primary concentration, creating a classic sensation that transcends the vintage. Nearly a minute goes by, and hints of cocoa and sweet herbs continue to resonate. Wow! Production at the Pertimali estate was down by 20% due to the spring frost, and the decision was made to place all of the juice usually intended for the Riserva into the straight Brunello, the result being one of the top wines of the vintage.Vinous Media | 95 VMRich with compact and velvety layers, the 2018 Brunello Di Montalcino offers fleshy aromas of fig, black licorice, mocha, and roasted sage. It is full-bodied and displays more freshness and transparency on the palate, although it remains fully ripe, with black cherry, plum, turned soil, and macerated violets. It has full and present ripe tannins, a hint of crushed rock, and a saline, savory finish. With its liqueur-like richness throughout, this is a fantastic expression, but it needs a couple of years in the cellar before drinking over the following 10.Jeb Dunnuck | 94+ JDRich with compact and velvety layers, the 2018 Brunello Di Montalcino offers fleshy aromas of fig, black licorice, mocha, and roasted sage. It is full-bodied and displays more freshness and transparency on the palate, although it remains fully ripe, with black cherry, plum, turned soil, and macerated violets. It has full and present ripe tannins, a hint of crushed rock, and a saline, savory finish. With its liqueur-like richness throughout, this is a fantastic expression, but it needs a couple of years in the cellar before drinking over the following 10.Jeb Dunnuck | 94+ JDWith vineyards on the edge of the Montosoli hill in Montalcino’s north, the Sassetti family waited until 7 Oct to harvest. Thin-skinned grapes demanded a significant selection and just a brief maceration. The resulting wine is reticent rather than flamboyant and highlights a rigid character to the vintage. Aromas evoke cranberry, brushwood and rooibos tea. An angular silhouette emphasises rugged tannins and tangy, tart acidity. Predominantly sour cherry flavours make way for subtle iron and cinnamon on the finish. Despite its rigour, this will be best in the near-term.Decanter | 90 DECWith vineyards on the edge of the Montosoli hill in Montalcino’s north, the Sassetti family waited until 7 Oct to harvest. Thin-skinned grapes demanded a significant selection and just a brief maceration. The resulting wine is reticent rather than flamboyant and highlights a rigid character to the vintage. Aromas evoke cranberry, brushwood and rooibos tea. An angular silhouette emphasises rugged tannins and tangy, tart acidity. Predominantly sour cherry flavours make way for subtle iron and cinnamon on the finish. Despite its rigour, this will be best in the near-term.Decanter | 90 DEC

This 2018 Il Marroneto Brunello di Montalcino has lifted, bright, floral aromas of crushed roses and balsamic notes. It is much more fragrant than the 2017 for example. The nose is hedonistic and intoxicating with lifted, red cherry, fragrant rose and spice. The palate has lots of vivid acidity on the finish with a with a vibrant, juicy mid palate. There is not huge weight in the middle but plenty of tannins and acidity giving it a fine backbone and there is such a beautiful range of aromas and flavors.The Wine Independent | 96 TWIAlessandro Mori’s Il Marroneto 2018 Brunello di Montalcino opens to a spicy bouquet with hints of cumin and white pepper that fold seamlessly into bright cherry, blueberry and cassis. The trick to this wine is balance, as no one side pulls stronger than the other. More importantly, this Brunello still has life and vibrant energy despite 39 months of aging in oak casks. Precisely because this bottle tastes so good now, I see little reason to wait further. This 21,470-bottle release is a delight.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 95 RPThere’s a radiance to the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino that makes it a total pleasure to taste today, as sweet exotic spices come together with dried black cherries, dusty flowers and hints of clove. This is pure pleasure on the palate, displaying both an opulence of fruit, yet also total poise and refinement, as sour berries find an energizing lift from juicy acidity. The 2018 doesn’t miss a beat, tapering off with rounded tannins while lingering on the palate for well up to a minute with an energizing burst of citrus, nuances of sweet rose and licorice. This is already so pretty today, yet it also possesses the balanced structure to mature beautifully, which isn’t found in many Brunello of this vintage. What a darling.Vinous Media | 95 VMIl Marroneto’s 2018 Brunello personifies elegance, ease and prettiness without being banal or superficial. Harvested from 5 October, there’s sweetness to the red berry core that provides a backdrop for cinnamon stick, sarsaparilla and violet accents to parade. Ripe tannins are fine-grained and enveloping as this reaches accessible depths, and appetising acidity begs another sip – but not before the leisurely finish unfolds with spice and raspberry. A seamless symphony that echoes Alessandro Mori’s unhurried, unforced approach to winemaking. As tempting as this is now, a bit more patience will be rewarded.Decanter | 95 DECFresh, red fruit character with cherries and red plum as well as hints of gun powder, coffee beans, spices and dried orange peel. Medium- to full-bodied with firm tannins and a supple, velvety core of fruit on the mid-palate. Lingering mineral sensation in the finish. Best after 2024.James Suckling | 93 JS

Poggio di Sotto hits it out the ballpark once again with an extremely elegant interpretation that shows the incredible depth and nuance Sangiovese can achieve, even in an uneven vintage such as this. The certified organic 2018 Brunello di Montalcino reveals a dark ruby hue and mid-weight concentration. Indeed, the wine is lighter and brighter than most, despite Brunello’s mandatory five years of aging before its commercial release. The tannins are silky and melt over the palate. Along the way, the wine offers high notes of red cherry, cassis and blue flower. This 38,000-bottle release carries a very high price tag, but your high expectations will be met.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 96+ RPBeautifully detailed, the 2018 Brunello Di Montalcino delivers pure layers of ripe cherry, raspberry, incense, stony earth, roses, and fresh herbs. Medium-bodied and silky in texture, with ultra-fine tannins, it has a gorgeous energy without edges, with a long arch of ripe raspberry, wild strawberry, herbes de Provence, wet stone, and fresh rose petal. It is incredibly long on the palate, and it almost feels as if the wine never ends. This will be a stunning wine to drink 2026-2046.Jeb Dunnuck | 96 JDThe Poggio di Sotto estate lies in the beautiful south-eastern zone of the DOCG in Castelnuovo dell’Abate facing towards Mont Amiata, a sacred mountain to the Etruscans. This 2018 Poggio di Sotto Brunello di Montalcino has a beautifully precise and bright, spicy, red fruit quality on the nose. On the palate it is tightly wrought and a little closed and reserved right now. It is medium-bodied and lighter in concentration than usual but nothing feels heavy, over extracted or forced about this wine. There is a graceful harmony on the palate although the vintage was cooler and more classic. Poggio di Sotto have made a fresh, lively wine that has beautiful balance and flow.The Wine Independent | 96 TWIIn southern Montalcino, near the town of Castelnuovo dell’Abate, Poggio di Sotto captures the lightness of the vintage with aplomb, and long maturation in 30hl Slavonian oak casks has not compromised its vitality. With pretty and precise aromas of cherry and raspberry it’s redolent of summer, yet fragrant wet leaves and woodsy rosehip speak of autumn. The palate is finessed and fluid, moving with grace. Chalky tannins cling discreetly yet persistently. An underlying luscious ripeness is positively moreish.Decanter | 95 DECThe 2018 Brunello di Montalcino captivates, opening slowly with an exotic array of sweet spices, cedar shavings, ashen stone, mint and hints of sage. It’s luxuriously soft in texture, silky and refined, with depths of balsamic-tinged cherries accelerated by vibrant acidity and a hint of sour citrus that adds contrast. This finishes with impressive structure for the vintage, still lively yet classically dry, leaving nuances of tart berries offset by a burst of inner sweetness that punctuates quite well. This was a very difficult vintage with a massive amount of rain in August that made vineyard work very difficult, but also extremely important. That said, the team at Poggio did a fantastic job finding balance. Do make sure to give the 2018 a good amount of time, as I followed this for three days, through which it only got better and better.Vinous Media | 94 VMAttractive nose of salted plums, sour cherries, dried roses and rosemary stems. Firm yet sleek with a medium to full body and layers of fresh fruit with delicious herb undertones. Drink or hold.James Suckling | 93 JS

This is so complex, with lifting citrus and herb undertones to the blue and red berry fruit. Thyme, sage and lavender, with mocha and clove, too. Full-bodied, full of depth and intensity, with firm yet seamless tannins. Evolves to espresso. Balanced, powerful and very long. Try after 2025.James Suckling | 97 JSA special single-vineyard wine with origins in one of the more remote, wild and beautiful corners of Montalcino, this is one of the true treats of the appellation. The Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso opens to a medium-rich appearance and vibrant color saturation. Sangiovese can lose its color quickly, but it remains beautifully intact here. Sweet cherry, redcurrant, spice, blue flower, balsam herb and orange peel are neatly woven together to create this balanced wine. Fruit is sourced from across a 11.7-hectare vineyard with schistous galestro soils. Production is 37,000 bottles.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 96 RPDark depths of crushed plums and black cherries are offset by notes of rosemary, spiced citrus peels and hints of cocoa as the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso opens in the glass. This is an especially racy style for Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona, with cooling mineral tones and zesty acidity propelling its ripe berry fruit and hints of sour citrus across the palate. While structured, this finishes with tremendous energy and freshness, leaving the mouth watering with a lingering bitter hint of balsamic spice. The 2018 may not possess the power often associated with the Pianrosso, but it instead impresses with its lively and spicy character.Vinous Media | 94 VMA complex red, with dark, savory notes of licorice, eucalyptus and tobacco aligned with cherry and berry flavors. Succulent, showing light viscosity to the texture, with wild herb and iron elements creeping in on the long finish. Power meets grace. Best from 2026 through 2045. 3,083 cases made, 1,083 cases imported.Wine Spectator | 94 WSBoth of Ciacci Piccolomini’s 2018s offer a ‘deliciousness’ of taste and a truly umami quality, however the Pianrosso selection delivers greater Brunello satisfaction. Not quite 12 hectares, this iron-rich marly vineyard soaked up just enough warmth to clearly demonstrate its southern origins. It has more shape, form and depth to lend endurance. Iron and salty minerals emerge from a backdrop of persimmon and hibiscus, finishing with Mediterranean herbs. Docile and yielding, the gentle sandy tannins give textural complexity as well as an immediate drinkability.Decanter | 92 DEC

A ruby/red color, the 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino is a bit understated. Initially ripe with aromas of baked red plum, woodsy earth, and balsamic herbs, it’s full-bodied on the palate and offers grippy tannins and an earthy profile with a clean finish. It would be well-matched to pair with a steak drizzled with olive oil. Drink 2024-2032.Jeb Dunnuck | 91 JDAromas of cedar, berries, orange peel and some lifted notes follow through to a full body with chewy tannins and a tangy finish. Lots of new wood. May be a little too much. But it should come around with bottle age. Try after 2025.James Suckling | 91 JS

The organic La Torre 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is elegant and tight with floral notes, iris root and a sweet note of cherry confit or crème de cassis. It has a cushiony feel, or bounce, and the wine envelopes the whole palate without pulling too strong in any one direction. Some sweetness carries to the palate. This pretty wine would benefit from a few more years of bottle age. Production is 14,000 bottles.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 95+ RPThe 2019 Brunello di Montalcino La Torre is born of the earth, as a burst of crushed ashen stones and wild herbs give way to dried black cherries. This is surprisingly juicy and sleek, with vividly ripe red plums complicated by saline minerals and savory spice. Green olives resonate under an air of violet inner florals. The 2019 finishes long, structured and staining. A pleasantly rustic character here may not be for everyone, but I think it works pretty well.Vinous Media | 93 VMThe 2019 Brunello from La Torre has a shy nose that eventually offers whiffs of leather, resin, forest floor and botanical herb. The linear palate offers juicy Morello cherry, tangerine and coffee bean alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2027–2034. Abv: 14.5% Kerin O’Keefe | 90 KO

The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino wafts up from the glass with an airy, minty freshness as dusty dried flowers, strawberries and pine shavings join the fray. This is lifted and finessed with soft textures and cooling mineral tones complementing its seductively ripe red berry fruits. It maintains fabulous energy throughout. The mouth is left watering despite its classic tannin profile and lingering tart wild berry concentration. The 2019 from Le Macioche possesses a wonderful combination of power and purity. This estate has been continually raising the bar with each passing vintage.Vinous Media | 95 VMThis Brunello combines vivid cherry, strawberry and chocolate aromas and flavors with savory notes of eucalyptus, spice, mineral and tobacco. Solidly structured yet balanced, with fine-grained tannins shoring up the lengthy finish. Best from 2027 through 2043. 1,650 cases made, 300 cases imported.Wine Spectator | 95 WSLots of dark fruits with dried lavender followed by allspice and a touch of citrus. Medium-bodied with round and chewy tannins. Healthy and muscular. Better after 2028.Decanter | 93 DECLots of dark fruits with dried lavender followed by allspice and a touch of citrus. Medium-bodied with round and chewy tannins. Healthy and muscular. Better after 2028.James Suckling | 93 JSBlue flower, menthol, new leather, forest floor and a whiff of game lead the nose on the fragrant 2019 Brunello from Le Macioche. Linear and showing an earthy elegance, the savory palate features ripe black cherry, blood orange, dried mint, licorice and cocoa before closing on a note of white truffle. Taut, fine-grained tannins provide the framework. Drink 2028–2034. Abv: 14% Kerin O’Keefe | 93 KO

The Podere Brizio 2019 Brunello is utterly delicious. Made with organically grown grapes, it opens with aromas of new leather, violet and forest berry while the smooth, elegant palate delivers ripe black cherry, spiced blue berry, cinnamon and licorice before a wintergreen finish. Tightly woven, velvety tannins provide enveloping support. It’s already almost accessible and will offer years of pleasure. Drink 2027–2034. Abv: 14.5% Kerin O’Keefe | 96 KOBlack cherry, blackberry, plum, violet and mineral flavors are the hallmarks of this pure, dense and robust red, which is squarely in the fruity camp, yet bumps up against pointed tannins on the finish. The lasting impression is both fruit and tannins, so this should work itself out in a few years. Best from 2027 through 2043. 3,000 cases made, 1,600 cases imported.Wine Spectator | 95 WSThe organic Podere Brizio 2019 Brunello di Montalcino (in a heavy glass bottle) shows pretty aromas of crushed stone, dried raspberry, redcurrant, cherry cola and blue flower. The elegance and finer qualities of this wine are what stand out most, and you get pretty definition and sharpness along the way. The finish is lean, tonic, lifted and bright. Some 38,000 bottles were made. Great job.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 94+ RPDark magenta/ruby, the 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino has a great nose, with concentrated power and purity in its aromas of cedar, fresh black raspberries, lavender, and baking spice. Full-bodied, although it remains linear with an even spine of acidity and refined tannins, it has great mouthwatering lift and a clean, long finish. It’s an impressive offering with a wide drinking window over the next 10-15 years.Jeb Dunnuck | 94 JDCrunchy and blooming red wine, displaying vibrant black cherries, redcurrants and violets, together with fascinating, savory spice notes of cloves and licorice. Medium-bodied and round on the palate with mouthwatering acidity. Chewy yet fine-grained tannins. Lively and flavorful. From organically grown grapes. This will develop nicely with age. Hold until 2027.James Suckling | 94 JSThe 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a sweet burst of spice and dusty dried flowers. This is racy and sleek with cooling acidity and crisp wild berry fruits. It finishes with medium length while pleasantly chewy sensations and edgy tannins mingle with hints of licorice.Vinous Media | 90 VM

The Poggio Landi 2019 Brunello di Montalcino (a certified organic wine) has a note of teak wood or Indian furniture shop that gives this wine a slightly exotic personality. To that, I would add dark fruit, dried currant and sweet blueberry. It ends with medium fruit weight and open-knit tannins that give the wine accessibility. This is a very ambitious release of 130,000 bottles.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 94 RPA lean style, this red delivers a core of cherry and strawberry fruit shaded with earth, tobacco and mineral accents. Stiff tannins take over on the chewy finish. Best from 2027 through 2040. 10,500 cases made, 4,000 cases imported.Wine Spectator | 92 WSAromas of blackberries, dried dark mushrooms and forest floor follow through to a medium body with firm, polished tannins and a juicy finish. Lightly chewy at the end. From organically grown grapes. Needs a couple of years to soften. Best after 2026.James Suckling | 91 JSA blend of dusty flowers, cloves and crushed stones complement dried blueberries as the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino slowly awakens in the glass. It washes across the palate with mineral-laden red fruits and savory spices as brisk acidity maintains an energetic feel. This leaves a web of fine-grained tannins that clamp down hard, yet freshness is maintained as the 2019 finishes staining, long and full of youthful vibrancy.Vinous Media | 90 VMMade with organically farmed grapes, the Poggio Landi 2019 Brunello has aromas of lavender, red berry, leather and camphor. Lithe and straightforward, the palate suggests tart cherry, bitter orange, mocha and peppercorn accompanied by dusty, rather drying tannins. Drink 2025–2030. Drink 2026–2034. Abv: 14% Kerin O’Keefe | 90 KO

You’ll discover inviting aromas of ripe plum, cake spice, new leather and blue flower on the compelling 2019 Brunello from Molino di Sant’Antimo. Combing richness and finesse, the delicious palate features ripe Morello cherry, black raspberry, star anise and crushed mint set against a backbone of firm, refined tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it nicely balanced. What a fantastic wine. Drink 2028–2039. Abv: 14.5% Kerin O’Keefe | 95 KO

Redcurrants and wild strawberries followed by intense herbal and green notes of tomato leaves and thyme. Creamy and round-textured followed by firm and structured tannins. Excellent length of finish with a hint of citrus blossom in the aftertaste. Pure and crunchy. Better after 2029.James Suckling | 95 JSThe 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a wine of medium-rich texture and lovely red and purple fruit aromas with elderberry and something much softer like Morello cherry. Those ripe and concentrated flavors give depth and volume to this wine, yet it also shows the heightened acidic freshness that Sangiovese delivers so well, and some chalky minimality. The tannins are yielding and not quite approachable, but they’re almost there. This wine sees 30 months in Slavonian oak, and 50,000 bottles will hit the market in January 2024.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 94 RPThe 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is floral and perfumed with dusty rose, lavender tones and crushed blackberries. It’s silky in texture yet lifted in feel with violet-laced wild berry fruits and vibrant acidity, maintaining a lovely energy throughout. This tapers off with medium length and gently tannic, leaving a bitter licorice tinge that makes for a pleasant punctuation.Vinous Media | 93 VMAromas of dark-skinned fruit, baking spice, forest floor and tobacco shape the nose on the elegantly structured 2019 Brunello from Tenuta di Sesta. Full-bodied and refined, the smooth palate offers ripe Morello cherry, baked plum, licorice and a dollop of mocha alongside velvety tannins. Drink 2027–2034. Abv: 14.5% Kerin O’Keefe | 93 KO

Alessandro Mori’s wines are easy to spot in a blind tasting thanks to the soaring intensity and vibrant Sangiovese aromas they display. They are truly one of a kind. A wine that sees a relatively short and hot fermentation, the Il Marroneto 2019 Brunello di Montalcino respects local winemaking tradition and remains true in spirit. The steep verticality of the bouquet evokes almost-carbonic or lifted aromas of bright cherry, strawberry shortcake, lilac and heritage rose. You get straight to the heart of Sangiovese. The tannins are extremely fine and powdery and the freshness of the fruit is beautifully intact. This wine really pops in 2019.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 97 RPThere is nothing shy about the 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino at this initial tasting from the barrel, and it feels nearly complete at this youthful stage. It is generous and jumps from the glass with explosive fruit of blackberry, cassis, crushed violets, and smoky earth. Full-bodied, with a polished and rounded texture, it offers ripe, velvety tannins and is forward, with a sunny and ripe profile. At this point, it feels as if this wine will be more accessible early on, although with significant aging potential.Jeb Dunnuck | 94-97 JDIacopo Mori described the 2019 vintage as ‘perfect, no disease...lots of fantastic grapes,’ when he visited Decanter in December 2023. Indeed, 2019 is looking superb across the board. Il Marroneto’s Brunello di Montalcino 2019 has the most incredible scent; an enticing waft of aromatic cherry and fragrant violets. In the mouth it’s supremely precise, with a silky texture and sweet red fruits. Intense, chiselled and sapid, there’s a bewitching pureness and delicacy here. Delicious.Decanter | 97 DECA cascade of bright cherry, rose buds, lavender and cedary spice wafts up from the whimsically perfumed 2019 Brunello di Montalcino. This is surprisingly juicy yet quite complex, with hints of zesty orange and vibrant acidity that add tremendous energy as crisp clove-inflected red fruits drench the senses. It finishes with cheek-puckering tannins, yet they are sweet and round. The 2019 tapers off spicy and fresh, leaving lingering mint, violets and sweet herbal tea notes. Don’t be fooled by its energy and approachability; the 2019 holds a massive amount of power in reserve. This is a spell-binding Brunello from Il Marroneto.Vinous Media | 95 VM