Gianni Brunelli : Brunello di Montalcino 2017

Proprietor Laura Vacca has crafted one of the top wines of the vintage from her high-altitude vineyards in the southeast- and northwest-facing plots just north of the town of Montalcino. It illustrates the warmth and dryness of the vintage without sacrificing precision or depth. Starting with macerated blueberry and cedar, this moves through marjoram, tarragon and fennel tea. It spreads across the palate sumptuously, dripping with dark wild forest berries. Soft, powdery tannins provide framework while uplifting acidity carries it all, finishing with concentrated citrus peel.

Sweet cherries and berries with some smoke and ash undertones. Medium body with firm, silky tannins that are slightly chewy, but polished and very pleasant for the vintage. Drink now or hold.