Jeb Dunnuck (95)

A beautiful cologne lifts from the glass of the 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino, which pours a red/orange-tinged color. Aromas of wild cherries, truffles, bittersweet chocolate, and dried orange peel are followed by a medium to full-bodied red with fine, coiled tannins, a linear feel, and refreshing lift all the way through the finish. I love the tertiary notes that come through, and this wine will only improve and gain in complexity over time.

Vinous (97)

Dark and brooding today, the 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Casanovina Montosoli lifts from the glass with an alluring display of mineral-infused black cherry, complemented by hints of mint leaf, then given further depths, as dark soil tones and a hint of animal musk develops in the glass. The 2015 races across the palate with velvety textures, yet it is somehow lifted, as notes of strawberry and cedar give way to savory herbs and minerals with pretty inner florals. The finish is long, revealing a web of complex tannins upon the senses, as hints of wild berry fruit lingers with just enough residual acids to keep the expression fresh. The 2015 is just a baby today. It shows so much tension and density, with layers of unseen depth that could one day result in this being one of the best wines of the vintage.

Wine Spectator (98)

The immediate impression of this Brunello showcases its harmony and charm, evoking black cherry, blackberry, violet, mineral and woodsy flavors. Iron and tobacco accents emerge as this builds on the palate to the long aftertaste, with well-integrated tannins. Concentrated, yet never heavy or imbalanced. Best from 2024 through 2050. 350 cases made, 50 cases imported. — BS

Kerin O'Keefe (97)

This gorgeous wine starts out with enticing aromas of ripe berry, forest floor, rose hip and wild herb alongside a balsamic note recalling new leather. Racy linear and savory, the extremely elegant, focused palate delivers juicy Morello cherry, crushed raspberry baking spice and licorice. Taut, refined tannins and bright acidity keep it balanced and youthfully tense. Beautiful wine. It closes on an almond note. Drink 2026–2038. 13.5% abv.

Vinous (95)

The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Fornace is laced remarkably pretty display of zesty bright cherry, offset by savory herbs and spice, as dusty minerals and dried florals add further depths. On the palate, silky textures give way to ripe cherry and spice, as saline-minerals and juicy acids add tension, while a hint of fine tannins slowly saturate, yet the 2015 never loses its vibrant persona. The finish is long, resonating with n dried cherry and cranberry over a coating of mineral-laced tannins. This is such a precise Brunello. I’m a huge fan.

Jeb Dunnuck (98)

Fornace is located in Castelnuovo dell'Abate in the southeast at lower elevations than the rest of the single vineyards of the Le Ragnaie estate. The 2016 Fornace Brunello is perfumed with perfectly ripe cherry, dried roses, sweet herbs, and licorice. The aromatics move seamlessly to the palate and unfold with kirsch, blood orange, and stony earth. Upfront, there is juicy ripe cherry fruit, blood orange, and salty earth. Ordinarily I would gravitate toward the more tension-driven wines, but this was what I felt to be the most pleasurable and joyful wine on this tasting, so much so that I would keep going back to wanting more. There is a seamless integration through the whole experience, and I do feel there will be longevity despite its immediate gratification. Enjoy over the next 15-20 years. 2021-2041.

Wine Advocate (95)

Wild cherries, dried blueberries and dark currants open the bouquet of Le Ragnaie's 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Ragnaie V. V. The cherry signature is forefront, and it emerges with medicinal and balsamic notes towed in close. Fruit comes from the estate's oldest vines (aged 50 years old) planted in the highest part of the appellation (at 600 meters above sea level). The bouquet is seamless, putting forth a chain of similar fruit and spice-related aromas that fall neatly in line. This effect is further reinforced as the wine evolves steadily in the glass. Of the various Brunello Selezioni presented by Le Ragnaie, this wine is the most classic in approach with a slightly more closed and austere personality that will serve it well as it continues its bottle evolution. The wine was bottled in April 2019 and will hit the market in February 2020. Only 3,500 bottles were made.

Jeb Dunnuck (98+)

The Le Ragnaie V.V. (Vigna Vecchia) is sourced from their highest elevation site of their oldest vines, planted in 1968. The aromatics of the 2016 Brunello Di Montalcino Ragnaie V.V. are lifted with pine, bright cherry fruit, rosehip, and orange zest. Of the single vineyards, it has the most tension-packed structure, with angular tannins and linear drive. The palate is fresh with crisp cherry fruit, licorice, and a stony mineral feel. This is a wine that certainly needs time to unfold and express its character. It would benefit from at least five years or more in the cellar before checking in. 2027-2042.

Vinous (92)

The 2018 Rosso di Montalcino makes itself known with a captivating and layered display of sour cherries and animal musk deepening further with crushed dried roses, minty herbs and a dusting of savory spice. It’s silky and pliant, yet energy remains high throughout. The 2018 Rosso showcases a vivid and pure display of wild strawberry with sweet tannins building toward the close. This is lifted and feminine in feel, tapering off classically dry and poised with tactile mineral tones and a hint of licorice lingering long. The 2018 is a harmonious and graceful rendition of Le Ragnaie’s Rosso that will win a lot of hearts right out of the gate.

Vinous (95)

The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino excites the senses with a wonderfully pure and fruity display of wild strawberries, woodland herbs, wet stone and flowery undergrowth. Both savory and sweet, the textures are like silk, with waves of ripe red fruits and spices which give way to salty minerals, licorice, hints of black tea and a coating of fine tannin. While youthfully structured, there’s a juicy freshness to be found throughout, creating harmonious balance and symmetry that makes the 2016 Lisini so easy to like already. That said, the best is yet to come.

Immerse yourself in a truly Italian experience with the Lisini Brunello di Montalcino 2019. Hailing from one of the most prestigious wineries in Tuscany, Lisini Brunello di Montalcino 2019 is the embodiment of the region's rich viticultural heritage. This illustrious wine is composed of 100% Sangiovese grapes, meticulously hand-harvested to achieve impeccable quality. Special attention to detail is given during the fermentation process which occurs in large Slavonian oak casks, inducing a unique complexity and character.

Lisini's winemakers masterfully sculpt a wine of extraordinary balance - its potency, depth, and tannic structure harmonised with delightful acidity and an alluring aroma profile. Expect captivating notes of cherry, plum, and an earthy undercurrent. On the palate, it reveals a sophisticated blend of ripe fruit with fine-grained tannins and an excellent finish. Lisini Brunello di Montalcino 2019 offers a classic Italian wine experience, skilfully capturing the unapologetic spirit of Tuscany. A perfect choice for those seeking to explore the authentic soul of Italian viticulture.

James Suckling (93)

Beautiful aromas of crushed raspberries and cherries, follow through to a full body, with soft and silky tannins and a long delicious finish. This is so yummy now. Extremely well-done for the vintage.

Exquisite and layered, the Lisini Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Ugolaia 2016 emanates from the sun-drenched vineyards of Tuscany, Italy. Skillfully crafted by the renowned Lisini winery, this dry red wine carries a legacy of exceptional winemaking. The grapes are hand-harvested from indigenous Sangiovese Grosso vines, meticulously nurtured in the estate's prized Ugolaia vineyard. The vinification process includes a prolonged maceration and slow fermentation, followed by maturation in Slavonian oak barrels for 36 months, accentuating the wine's potential for longevity.

Anticipate a wine with a deep, intense ruby hue, revealing complex aromas of dark cherries, blackberries, leather, and spice. The Lisini Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Ugolaia 2016 possesses a robust structure balanced by velvety tannins and a graceful finish. Its elegance and depth reflect Lisini's dedication to producing top-tier Brunello, making it a sublime choice for discerning wine enthusiasts.

Vinous (93)

Dried roses and cherries are lifted by hints of cinnamon and clove as the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Ugolaia grumbles up from the glass. This is nearly velvety in feel, with a dense wave of tart wild berries complicated by hints of sour citrus and balsamic spice. Plum and licorice nuances linger on, as the 2017 finishes structured, yet not severely so, leaving hints of mocha and red currants. The Ugolaia is another example of the success that Lisini had in this difficult vintage. That said, it will require a number of years to come fully into focus.

Wine Advocate (91)

The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino offers bright intensity and an elegant approach. The bouquet is redolent of cassis, dried blackberry, toasted almond and pipe tobacco. There are sweet notes from the fruit and savory notes developed over the wine's long aging period. Both aspects are nicely contrasted against each other. This wine should continue to evolve and will put on more weight with age.

Wine Advocate (91)

The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino offers bright intensity and an elegant approach. The bouquet is redolent of cassis, dried blackberry, toasted almond and pipe tobacco. There are sweet notes from the fruit and savory notes developed over the wine's long aging period. Both aspects are nicely contrasted against each other. This wine should continue to evolve and will put on more weight with age.

James Suckling (98)

This is intense and complex yet subtle with fantastic aromas of rose petal, plum, clove and fresh mushroom. Hints of stems. Full body, focused and polished with a linear line of tannins and fabulous length. A beauty. Better after 2021 but already a joy to taste.

Vinous (92)

Pertimali's 2015 Brunello di Montalcino is currently understated and youthfully poised, as peppery herbs are joined by young strawberry, with crushed stone minerality and earth tones. On the palate, silky textures usher in a ripe set of red fruits, carried well by juicy acids, and giving way to sweet spice and pretty inner floral notes. The finish is long yet maintains the wine’s fresh and vibrant persona, as hints of fine tannin mingle with wild berries and a pinch of residual acids, making the mouth water. The 2015 may not be a Brunello for the ages, but it sure is very easy to like today. It’s a beautiful wine.

James Suckling (100)

Blackberries, black walnuts and black cherries, as well as loads of chewy tannins. Some smoked wood, wood tannins and even black truffles. It’s full-bodied and powerful with loads going on. It just keeps growing on the palate. So much wet earth and black olive at the finish with porcini mushrooms, too. Needs time to soften. Crazy finish. Try after 2025.

Vinous (93)

The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino makes itself known with a burst of dusty black raspberries, mentholated herbs, crushed ashen stone and dark flowery undergrowth. Silky-smooth and round in feel, it impresses with a cooling wave of mint-infused wild berry fruits mixed with balsamic spices and wood-smoked salts. While the 2017 doesn’t have the weight and density you’d expect from such a young Pertimali, yet it makes up for it with grace and purity, leaving a light coating of tannins and minerals to mingle throughout the finale. In order to uphold their standards of quality, production was down by a whopping 50%.

James Suckling (96)

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.

Vinous (95)

The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a spice box of a wine, opening with a burst of camphor and dried flowers, giving way to crushed blackberries, sage and cloves. This is surprisingly energetic and racy in style. Vibrant acidity propels depths of dark red fruits and inner floral as salty minerals saturate. The 2019 finishes structured and long yet still lively, leaving violet inner florals and hints of currant to taper off slowly. The combination of power, depth and energy makes this impossible to ignore.

Vinous (93)

This is the first vintage of the 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Mulino from Pertimali, a lower-elevation cru that’s noted for the high level of marine fossils found in its soils. Here I find a classic display of dried roses, black cherry, dusty earth and freshly-tanned leather. It envelopes the palate in fleshy textures offset by a mix of tart wild berries, zesty acids and savory spice, as building tension puckers the cheeks, seeding them with fine-grained tannins. This comes across as structured yet remarkably balanced, and it’s a beautiful expression of the vintage. Lose your bottles in the cellar for two to three years, and then reap the rewards.

James Suckling (96)

Extremely perfumed with rose petal, blueberry, fresh mushroom and plum character. Full body, super silky tannins and a dried, slightly raisiny finish, but this is delicious and luscious. Fruit cake center palate. Immediate impact here. Drink or hold.

Vinous (95)

The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva struts its old-school stylings with a beguiling display of musky cherry and strawberry offset by damp earth tones, hints of cedar and mint. It’s unbelievably soft and silky in texture, ushering in ripe red berry fruits laced in saline-minerals and savory spice, with building inner florals toward the close. Formidable structure awaits on the finish, yet the 2015 Riserva manages to maintain freshness, coming across as both structured for the long haul but also with enough primary appeal to warrant checking in on today. It’s gorgeous. Tasted over the course of two days with consistent results.

Vinous (97+)

The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is brooding and powerful, wafting up with a darkly floral mix of sweet mint, smoke and animal musk before a core of black cherry emerges. The textures are like pure, elegant silk, slowly draped across the palate, delivering an array of opulent black and red fruits contrasted by zesty citrus tones and spice. The sheer density here is amazing, but even more impressive is that the 2016 stays in perfect balance from start to finish, tapering off long, structured and classically dry. The Pertimali Riserva is created through a selection in the vineyard, and it spends 48 months refining in oak casks. There will be no Riserva created in 2017 or 2018.

Vinous (92)

Crushed cherries, dusty rose, saddle leather, earthy minerals and shavings of cedar all come together to form a classic and utterly gorgeous bouquet on the 2018 Pertimali Rosso. Soft textures are then motivated by a stunning mix of acids and minerals with savory red fruits and spice, buzzing, practically sizzling on the senses. There’s so much energy here. The finish is long and lightly structured, showing tremendous potential, resonating on earth notes and dried fruits with a subtle tug of youthful tannin. Wow.

James Suckling (97)

The beauty and polish to this are very impressive on the nose and the palate. Blackberry, blueberry and sandalwood character. Full body, ultra-fine tannins and an elegant finish. So crafted and fine. Drink in 2020.

James Suckling (96)

A ripe but suggestive nose of dark cherries, dark chocolate, hot stones, cassis, brambleberry pie and bark. Yet, on the palate, this paints an altogether different picture, in which sleek tannins carry fresh layers of forest fruit long, through a compact, full-bodied palate. Powerful acidity steers it through to a restrained but chewy finish. Drink from 2024.

Indulge in the robust allure of Macioche Brunello di Montalcino 2017, a veritable connoisseur's choice hailing from the prestigious Italian wine region of Montalcino. This sumptuous wine, made by esteemed producer 'Macioche', embodies the very essence of traditional Tuscan winemaking. Matured for 36 months in Slavonian oak barrels, it exudes a robust structure and full-bodied character that reflects the terroir's primal intensity.

Distinguished for its expressive bouquet of ripe berries and hints of chocolate and tobacco, Macioche Brunello di Montalcino 2017 is a testament to world-class winemaking. Each vintage is made using the delicate Sangiovese grape, meticulously hand-selected at the Macioche estate's vineyards, highlighting the brand's dedication to quality. The bold wine offers heady undertones of red fruit and spice on the palate, flawlessly balanced by its velvety tannins and an elongated, elegant finish.

A sophisticated addition to any fine wine collection, the Macioche Brunello di Montalcino 2017 is best savoured with robust dishes, transforming moments into exceptional experiences.