Argiano : Brunello di Montalcino 2019

The Argiano 2019 Brunello di Montalcino comes out stronger than the previous 2018 and 2017 vintages, thanks to the precision and focus of its fruit flavors in this balanced vintage. It shows ample depth and volume, with sweet cherry and blackberry that fold into softly toasted spice and earth. Floral hints of lilac and iris make brief but poignant appearances. Velvety tannins and a nicely concentrated mid-weight palate give good staying power. This is a 120,000-bottle release.

At an average altitude of 300 metres, Argiano stretches out over 120 hectares (58 of which are planted to vines) in the southwestern sector of Montalcino. Looking towards the Mediterranean, the vineyards are bathed in breezes from the sea. The 2019 is poignantly evocative of place exuding salt-tinged sweet herbs, rose and bergamot. Generously weighted with succulent strawberries and cherries, this fills the mouth without feeling heavy. Tangy tangerine instils freshness. Long chalky tannins caress with increasing firmness as it flows confidently across the palate. Rosemary and sage echo on the finish.

Delightful aromas of juicy red cherries, strawberries, rose petals and wild bush, together with hints of juniper and ground herbs. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and crisp acidity. Zesty and piquant with beautiful balance and finish. Plenty of fruit at the end. Give it more time to come around. Try after 2027.

Bright ruby red with cherry-red reflections. Dried berries on the nose, slight hints of coffee grounds and black tea, with a hint of liquorice on the finish. Full of energy on the palate, precise acidity and good juiciness, with creamy fruit and a fruity flow, still a little young on the finish, promising potential.

Taking a dark ruby hue, the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino offers a warming bouquet of black raspberry, licorice candies, polished leather, and sappy forest herbs. Rounded and approachable, it’s medium to full-bodied, with sweet tannins and balanced acidity, ripe concentration throughout, and a long finish with a note of bergamot. This is a beautifully styled wine from the Argiano team, who continue to impress. Drink 2025-2040.

The rich, savory nose has the tang and earthy depth of an herb garden with top soil, thyme, sage and pepper, then the pop of tart berries. Cherries and strawberries are sweet and bouncy on the palate but the vibrant acid and salty, herbaceous undertones create an optimistic, energetic tension.