Canalicchio di Sopra, Brunello di Montalcino 2017

Descrizione

This was the Brunello that really broke our hearts.

While you wonder about the price to value ratios of other Brunellos, this one just came in and swept that argument out of all consideration. It is so good and such a stunning, complex and rewarding wine that we realised that there was no use: give in to it, or go home. And that’s the heart-breaker – it’s not exactly cheap…

However, it is very good value if you can get your head around what it is that value really signifies. This is a tiny estate in one of the most expensive regions in Europe for growing village-level red grapes.

The demand is sky-high and the quality is pretty much peerless in its greater region. That’s the allure of really good Brunello. Founded in 1960, they were one of the 12 founding members of the original consorzio and have been at the heart of the appellation ever since. The 70-hectare site is based on the northern slopes of the town, where they produce powerful dark and brooding wines, even in the more challenging vintages.

Aged for 5 years, by law, this shows intense aromas of black and red cherries, sweet licorice and notes of tarred leather. Filling in the mouth with juicy tannins, this is a wine that will develop and age beautifully. The finish leaves notes of coffee, plum and herbal tea-leaf character so much a part of the Sangiovese story.