Antinori - Pian Delle Vigne : Brunello di Montalcino 2019

Iron and sanguine aromas and flavors define this muscular red, while plum, cherry, menthol and tar notes join in on the chewy and expansive finish. Balanced on the side of the tannins for now, with fine length. Best from 2027 through 2042. 15,830 cases made, 2,500 cases imported.

Produced since 1995, when Antinori purchased this sprawling property in Montalcino’s southwest, Pian delle Vigne expresses the balmy, Mediterranean side of Montalcino. Ebullient in its aromas of cinnamon, mint and pepper, the 2019 offers instant appeal. The palate is soft and supple in raspberry fruit with plush, velvety tannins to match. These sneak up but are ultimately kept in check. Citrussy acidity buoys, and a finale of peppermint and nutmeg enchants. While I don’t see this making old bones, it will provide plenty of pleasure over the next eight to 10 years.

The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a dark and brooding bouquet that mixes plum sauce with dark chocolate and espresso beans. This blends velvety textures with ripe red and black fruits all over a core of juicy acidity while maintaining a lifted and energetic feel. The 2019 finishes structured and long yet still relatively fresh. Orange-tinged blackberry and savory herbs linger. I am very impressed by the palate performance and tannin management of the 2019, yet I wish the winery would push for an equally fresh display on the nose. That said, fans of the Pian delle Vigne style will love the energy in this wine.

A rich ruby color, the 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino is ripe and floral with aromas of sweet cherries, mocha, candied flowers, and mossy earth. Medium to full-bodied, it brings snappy fresh acidity along with ripe tannins, a clean finish, and a touch of smoky incense on the back palate. Its grip hangs on a bit, but it’s relatively approachable and will do well over the coming 10-12 years.

Antinori’s holding in Montalcino. Deep ruby with orange tinges. Rather stalky and reduced on the nose, with no obvious fruit right now. The palate is the opposite, with rich, juicy cherry fruit and an eucalyptus note from the oak, followed by rich, grainy tannins. Needs an additional year to come around and show its true colours. (WS)