Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2021

Az. Agr. Altesino | Tuscany
Altesino s.r.l. s.a. | Loc. Altesino 54 | IT 53024 Montalcino

09682321 · 0,75 l · 61,33 €/lavailable immediately

Altesino has undoubtedly helped write the history of Brunello. The house was the first to introduce the cru concept in Montalcino, the first to introduce barrique ageing for IGT wines – and was the first to offer its Brunello for subscription. And yet the Annata Brunello is the most honest proof of what Altesino stands for: a style that aims for elegance and finesse, not power for its own sake. Four parcels – altesino, Castelnuovo dell'Abate, Macina and Pianezzine – give the wine its foundation: 100% Sangiovese Grosso from older vines on pliocenic, clay-sandy soils in the eastern hills of Montalcino, at 220 to 280 metres.

2021 began in Montalcino with a mild, dry winter and a spring phase with well-distributed rainfall. The summer remained warm, without extremes – pronounced temperature fluctuations between day and night ensured even, slow ripening. September was stable and dry – ideal conditions for a smooth and relaxed harvest. The result: a Sangiovese with a harmonious structure, precise tannins and fresh tension. Fermentation in steel, maturation in large Slavonian oak barrels – patience at every stage.

Bright ruby red with garnet reflections. Citrus notes, red cherry, dried herbs and pressed flowers on the nose – elegant and complex. Focussed and linear on the palate, with well-defined tannins, lively acidity and a long, dry mineral final. 2021 – brunello in its most accessible and classic form. SUPERIORE.DE

"For the estate Brunello, Altesino draws on components from 50ha spread out over seven distinct pockets of Montalcino. Aged in large Slavonian oak casks, it proposes scents of cinnamon, forest brush and walnut. Packed with both dark wild berries and red cherry compote, this remains savoury rather than sweet. It is tightly knit in structure with just enough concentration and brawn. Tannins are well defined and provide a dry, chalky bite on the finish." Decanter

"The 2021 Brunello di Montalcino mixes violet and lavender tones before settling on stemmed wild strawberries. It is remarkably fresh and fruit-forward, with a core of tantalizing acidity elevating depths of ripe red and blue fruits. This finishes with staining length and edgy tannins, leaving a raspberry concentration and nuances of autumnal spice." Vinous

"The flavors of black cherry, blackberry and black currant are pure, with accents of violet, wild herbs and earth. This is smooth, picking up chalky tannins as the flavors build to the lengthy conclusion." Wine Spectator

"The Altesino 2021 Brunello di Montalcino was a little shy when I tasted it, but knowing the track record of this estate, I have no doubt that the wine will flesh out with bottle age. Give it a year or two more. The bouquet offers blackcurrant and wild berry with a dark mineral note and grilled herb. Pressed violet also rises to the top of the wine, which is firmly structured and very lively in terms of mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"A lively Brunello with aromas of plums, ripe cherries, cedar and teak that follow through to a medium body with fine tannins and a crisp finish. Crunchy and linear. Lovely energy at the end." James Suckling