Casanova di Neri

Dense bouquet with aromas of blackberry and some smoke. Rich taste with a beautiful fruitiness and well-dosed tannin. Very harmonious and lingers long. Truly no ordinary Rosso from the vineyards around Sant'Antimo. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brambleberry, walnut and bark with some black truffle, following through to a medium to full body with firm, solid tannins and a medium finish." James Suckling

The Rosso di Montalcino 2020 opens with a bouquet characterised by dark red fruits, forest floor, earthy minerality and peppery herbs. On the palate, soft textures lead to wild berry fruits, minerals and herbaceous flowers, while fine tannins slowly build towards the long and dramatic final. Hints of red and black fruits, tobacco and savoury spices round off the overall experience. A beautiful wine! SUPERIORE.DE

"Woodsy wildberries, herbs, pungent florals and underbrush create a dazzling display as the 2020 Rosso di Montalcino blossoms in the glass. This is soft, juicy and pliant, with lavender-tinged red and black berries that give way to savory mineral tones toward the close. The 2020 keeps the energy high while remaining incredibly pretty through the long finale, where inner violet and sour citrus tones resonate on. This shows the elegance of the vintage with a perfumed and highly pleasurable style." Vinous

IbBianco is a blend of Vermentino and Grechetto and smells wonderfully of candied apricot and peach. Elegance and finesse in the powerful fruity and complex taste, which lasts long and with a certain coolness and pleasant freshness. SUPERIORE.DE

Intense salmon pink. Seductive bouquet of cherry, raspberry, strawberry, floral notes and traces of tangerine. Spices and small red berries on the palate, blessed with crisp acidity and a wonderful freshness. A high-class companion to strong Mediterranean starters, light pasta dishes or simply to sociable barbecues with Tuscany-savvy wine friends. SUPERIORE.DE

Neri's new and already very serious wine was born with the purchase of a very special vineyard. True to the philosophy of the winery to produce wines only from the best terroirs around Montalcino, the 7 hectare plot of land with over 45 years old vines was finally purchased in 2018. This was preceded by more than 40 years of friendship with the previous owners, with whom Giovanni Neri planted the vines and tended them over the past decades. It is still "only" a Rosso, but in 2023 the new star in the firmament of the Neri range will be born here - a Brunello, which will then set new standards in the appellation in terms of quality, expression and uniqueness.

Fine fragrance of strawberries, herbs and young leather. Taut and lively on the palate, the Sangiovese fruit is very precisely nuanced, flanked by strong but by no means aggressive tannins. Long and round on the palate and of remarkable freshness and cheerfulness. Will continue to gain in the next few years as it matures further in the bottle. SUPERIORE.DE

"Lively dark red. Perfumed aromas of red berries, spices and flowers, with a whiff of minerals. Vibrant and tangy in the mouth, with lovely acidity nicely framing and lifting the red berry, pepper and spice flavors. Noteworthy fruit purity on the sweetly tannic finish, with the flavors nicely extended thanks to a firm edge of acidity. An absolutely excellent Rosso, made with grapes picked in a roughly 50-year old vineyard that owner Giacomo Neri bought three years ago in the Sesta area." Vinous

"There is a lot of buzz surrounding the untapped potential of the Rosso di Montalcino appellation, so when you get a new wine from a headline estate like Casanova di Neri, you can really start to bank on that potential. The hope is that many more will forge forward in this direction, giving greater definition and identity to this Brunello-adjacent entry-level wine. The Casanova di Neri 2018 Rosso di Montalcino Giovanni Neri offers a pure window onto Sangiovese from this hamlet in southern Tuscany. Indeed, the grape here is called Brunello or "Sangiovese Grosso" precisely because it tends to offer dark ("bruno") fruit flavors and rich intensity in its most natural state. This is a naked and transparent wine that allows you to accurately taste the so-called bruno in Sangiovese without too many extra bells or whistles. There are savory and wild characteristics with forest fruit, bitter almond, dried herb and balsam herb. That initial wave of aromatics is followed by tilled earth and subtle spice. The wine is named after Giacomo Neri's father, who shares the name Giovanni with his grandson." Robert Parker

Neri's new and already very serious wine was born with the purchase of a very special vineyard. True to the winery's philosophy of making wines only from the best terroirs around Montalcino, the small 7-hectare parcel with over 45 years of vines was finally acquired in 2018. This was preceded by a friendship of over 40 years with the previous owners, with whom Giovanni Neri planted the vines and nurtured them over the past decades. It is still "only" a Rosso, but in 2023 the new star in the firmament of the Neri range will emerge here - a Brunello that will then set new standards in the appellation in terms of quality, expression and uniqueness.

Fine fragrance of strawberries, herbs and young leather. Taut and lively on the palate, the Sangiovese fruit very precisely nuanced, flanked by powerful but by no means aggressive tannins. Long and round on the palate with remarkable freshness and cheerfulness. Will gain even more in the next few years with further bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, luminous ruby red. Hearty, open nose of ripe cherries and ripe raspberries, delicate cloves and noble spice. On the palate with tightly woven tannin and racy play, after fine blood oranges, very juicy and salty in the finish." Falstaff

"The 2019 Rosso di Montalcino Giovanni Neri is hauntingly dark, with masses of ashen crushed stone and exotic spices that unfold to reveal rich blackberry and plum. This is so soft and silky yet vibrant, cascading ripe red and black fruits across the palate with ease, as minerals slowly saturate. It’s lightly structured with ripe plums and spice, hints of licorice and a flourish of salty minerals. The 2019 will be enjoyable right out of the gate, but it will also hold up nicely through short-term cellaring." Vinous

Everything is in the right place here: intense bouquet of sour cherry with nuances of chocolate, spices, liquorice and herbs. Energetic and highly vital on the palate. Wonderfully layered and seamlessly integrated aromas of dark fruits open up with every sip, paired with a subtle vein of salt. Its tannins are like velvet and silk, the long, sweeping finish reveals that Sangiovese excellence we love so much at Casanova di Neri! SUPERIORE.DE

"Smart bouquet of forest fruits, spices and tobacco, gently caressed by cocoa notes; precise construction with polished tannins and vivid acidity, but behind it also plenty of power and fullness, finishes long. Reliable as in every vintage." Vinum

"Sparkling intense ruby with fine garnet shimmer. Very clear and precise nose, smells of ripe, whole plums, tobacco and cardamom in the background. Clear and present on the palate, opens with lots of grippy tannin in several layers, juicy fruit, all embedded in fine enamel, rich pressure in the finish." Falstaff

"Tile and balsamic aromas with red plums and cherries. Full-bodied with a pretty center palate and ripe, rich fruit. It's a little timid now, but shows violets, bark and black cherries at the finish." James Suckling

"Casanova di Neri's 2016 Brunello di Montalcino is a wine of pleasurable contrasts but also massive structure. Ripe dark fruits and autumnal spices offset savory herbs and hints of animal musk. It enters the mouth silky, cooling and lifted, with a noticeable inner sweetness to its polished cherry/berry flavors, but it then sways more toward inner earth, minerals and grippy tannins. The 2016 urges you to take another sip, as there's so much upfront appeal; yet each time you do, it reminds you once again that it's a painfully young Brunello in need of cellaring. That said, the potential here is incredibly high." Vinous

"The Casanova di Neri 2016 Brunello di Montalcino (or the so-called "white label" Brunello) takes a minute or two to open, and like all these new releases from the Neri family, you're best off opening your bottle five hours before serving them. This classic expression displays raspberry, tar, hazelnut, dried fig, asphalt and some crushed chalk. The wine is streamlined and compact in terms of mouthfeel, giving us an accessible Brunello from a benchmark Montalcino estate." Robert Parker

"The 2016 vintage was marked by significant day and nighttime temperature differences. Gianlorenzo Neri says this was particularly pronounced in Montalcino's northeast, where the vineyards for the estate's 'white label' are found. With beautiful focus off the bat, this grabs your attention immediately. Black raspberry and wild cherry give way to liquorice, wet stones and smoke. The fruit is velvety, but quickly hemmed in by powdery, grippy tannins which retreat a bit on the finish, likes waves, leaving rose and violets in their wake. Vibrant and racy." Decanter

"Shows fine depth, with cherry, black currant and wild herb flavors, accented by iron, earth, leather and tobacco notes. Muscular, despite a slim frame, with a long, savory aftertaste." Wine Spectator

Bright, deep red. Captivating aromas of sweet red berries, cinnamon, violets and liquorice on the nose. Fruity and full on the palate: refined, juicy flavours of red plums and raspberries remain bright and lively on the fresh back end. Neri's 2017 vintage once again sets the standard in terms of opulence and complexity in this not-so-easy year and proves the winery's class! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby with a fine garnet rim. Fragrant and appealing nose, opens with fine spicy notes, after coriander seeds, then lots of ripe cherry, plus some rosewood. Round and smooth in the attack and course, fine cherry fruit also on the palate, hearty, well-integrated tannin, sweet melting in the final." Falstaff

"Dusty florals, musky cherry and raspberry with hints of mentholated herbs waft up from the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino. This is enveloping and soft, with sweet exotic spices and juicy, vibrant acidity giving way to tart wild berries and rosy inner florals. There’s amazing length, hard red candies and violets, and sweet tannin that goes on and on, creating a somewhat chewy yet also fresh expression. The 2017 benefits from all of the fruit that would usually go into the single-vineyard Cerretalto Brunello, though even with it, production is down by 35%. That said, this is stunning juice." Vinous

"This fleshy red is introduced by graphite, mint and wild herb aromas, with plum and cherry flavors as the main themes and earth, tobacco and underbrush notes in supporting roles. Balanced, ending in a savory aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The Casanova di Neri 2017 Brunello di Montalcino delivers unexpected grace and a floral profile that is not common to find in this scorching-hot and dry vintage. In faithful Casanova di Neri fashion, the wine is bold and dark in appearance, and although the bouquet is dominated by purple and black fruits, there is a brief interlude of fresh garden rose or lilac. That little moment changes up the momentum of this wine in a most positive way by allowing for a harmony of low tones and high tones that are well matched here. The wine is robust, structured and velvety to the palate, but ultimately this expression is far more delicate than I would have ever expected for a 2017 Brunello. This is a nice surprise." Robert Parker

Giacomo Neri's Pietradonice is Cabernet Sauvignon at the highest level and has become a legend, as there is hardly a wine in Montalcino that can even come close to it. Monumental and very concentrated, with hints of sour cherries and a fine cedar and liquorice note. The exciting thing: Pietradonice is clearly recognisable as a Montalcino growth and yet, with its herbaceous spiciness, it is just as typical of Neri as it is of the grape variety and thus again as if from another larger world. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Pietradonice, a varietal Cabernet Sauvignon from the south-east of Montalcino, is dark as it grumbles up from the glass, showing dusty rose, currents, cherries and smoke. This is velvety in feel yet wonderfully lifted and fresh, steadily building in tannic heft yet packed full of graphite-like mineral-tinged black fruits and dark inner florals. A hint of sour citrus keeps you coming back for more even as the Pietradonice flexes its structural heft. Give the 2018 five to seven years before attempting to enjoy the full potential buried within." Vinous

"Aromas of blackberry, plum, dark chocolate, mushroom, earth and five spice. Full-bodied with fine tannins. Chewy and structured on the palate with a chalky texture. Balanced, layered and well defined. Long, savory finish. Drinkable now, but best from 2023." James Suckling

The second top growth from Podere Casanova seduces with its scent of dark fruits, pepper and other spices. The taste is rich and compact with a lively fruit-acid play until the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, sparkling ruby. Shows young and appealing, of violet blossoms, raspberry, plus light smoky notes, saffron. Juicy and compact on the palate, opens with many layers of fine-meshed tannin, long and precise." Falstaff

"Lots of spice, balsamic and ripe-fruit character to this one. Walnut undertones. Full to medium body, a compressed structure of ripe tannins and packed-in fruit. Vibrant finish." James Suckling

"Precise balance sets the stage for cherry, black currant, violet and tobacco flavors in this smooth, intense red. The tannins are present yet well-integrated and this persists with echoes of fruit and tobacco. Reveals an element of spice on the aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The Casanova di Neri 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is a beautiful wine that recalls many of the stunning characteristics found in its high-scoring predecessor. The bouquet offers black cherry, spice, leather, balsam herb, cola and licorice. The complexity is absolutely impressive. The 2012 vintage shows aromatic intensity and persistence on the finish. Having said that, this remains one Bellissimo Brunello." Robert Parker

If there's one thing Giacomo Neri has mastered, it's harvesting at optimal ripeness: he knows his property and his vines better than most, and it shows all the more in the top 2016 vintage. The bouquet goes far beyond the standard cherry and blackberry and includes plum cake, spice bread and plum wrapped in bacon. Nothing about this wine is obvious or monochromatic. Everything is nuanced and ethereal. Tenuta Nuova 2016 also features the linear mineral and saline notes that are characteristic of this single vineyard. The perfectly formed tannins achieve a suppleness that is second to none. Collectors will want to put this wine aside for ten years or more. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, bright ruby. Impressive nose with rich notes of wild raspberry, ripe plum fresh from the tree, plus some liquorice, exciting. Salty and juicy on the palate, showing lots of red berry fruit, then opens up with fine-meshed tannin, polished and exceedingly long." Falstaff

"A bright, pure version, boasting raspberry, black cherry and blackberry flavors married to a fluid profile. The structure is present, yet both the lively acidity and fine-grained tannins are in harmony. The focus is really on the fruit here, with accents of graphite, earth, tobacco and underbrush." Wine Spectator

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova drawing you in with a display of exotic brown spice, mint and cedar dust. Further coaxing unlocks depths of cherry, plum, hints of dark chocolate and roses. It coasts along a medium-bodied frame with velvety richness, complemented by polished red and black fruits while contrasted by brisk acids and hints of sour citrus. This coats the teeth in concentration, as if you can feel the pulp, seeds and skins of its fruit, while a layer of fine tannin slowly grounds you back to earth. The Tenuta Nuova already has so much to give, yet it will be many years before it reaches its apex. Wow." Vinous

"Tenuta Nuova is Casanova di Neri's southern expression of Brunello. Vines were planted in 1989 and Gianlorenzo Neri says they are now hitting their stride, giving wines with more persistence and depth than earlier vintages. The 2016 clearly demonstrates both of these attributes. It is not as immediate as the white label but unfolds decorously with earth, tar, leather, black currants and cinnamon. The tannins are refined, clinging to the palate with a clayey texture. Pristine and polished with masses of personality, the briny undertow cleanses the mouth brilliantly. Balsam and orange carry the finish." Decanter

"This is one of my sweetheart wines from Montalcino. The Casanova di Neri 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova offers a long list of aromas on an ever-shifting and fluid bouquet. You get bright cherry, rose potpourri, black truffle, caramel, butterscotch, sandalwood, road pavement and chalky mineral. In fact, each time I come back to this wine, that mineral element seemed to grow in intensity and scope. The wine offers a grounded fruit side that is contrasted nicely against a grounded oak component. The mouthfeel is creamy and long, and the wine shows terrific tannic integration. When you come back hours later, you might find black olive, bresaola and licorice." Robert Parker

"Aromas of blackberries, cherries, violets and bark with mahogany. It's full-bodied and chewy with intense tannins that are layered and focused. The fruit is pure and purposeful, yet not over done. Wonderful strength and purity to this. Class is the word." James Suckling

Undeniably - and not only in the 2017 vintage - one of Italy's cult wines: a beguiling nose of sour cherries and black berries, with hints of spices. In the mouth a variety of aromas, especially dark fruits. The perfectly integrated acidity and soft, almost sweet tannins characterise the long finish. A wonderfully powerful, juicy and dense Brunello with excellent storage potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, sparkling garnet red. Intense nose with notes of pomegranate, red beet, then lots of plum and dark cherry. Hearty and gripping on the palate, dark berry fruit, then opens up with lots of dense tannin, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Tenuta Nuova hails from Casanova di Neri’s Le Cetine vineyard in Montalcino’s south. With a full southern exposure from east to west, it is a sun soaked, Mediterranean expression of Brunello. The 2017 takes a bit of coaxing at first but then cherry bark, cinnamon, liquorice root and gardenia arise from the glass. Upfront, gritty tannins dissolve slowly into a fine dusty powder, revealing supple, round black currants. Citrussy acidity keeps this lively while dark chocolate and mint notes linger." Decanter

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Cascina Nuova lifts up with a layered display of peppery herbs, musky plums, black raspberry, crushed stone, tobacco and smoke. It’s silky yet juicy, pliant and staining to the senses, offering violet and lavender tones balanced by cooling acids and hints of candied citrus. The 2017 really plays with the palate; it’s spicy, long and intense, and lightly structured yet classically dry. Balsamic herbs, salted licorice – it goes on and on like a spice box menagerie. An elegant pleasure bomb." Vinous

"Expressive, complex and long, despite its compact profile today. Delivers black cherry, blackberry, violet, mineral and tobacco flavors that prevail, while assertive yet refined tannins leave their mark on the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"Lots of red plums and cherries on the nose with a palate that has a full body, thick silky tannins and a fresh and flavorful finish. The tannins are in good balance against the ripe fruit. Fresh and transparent at the end." James Suckling

"This is one of my all-time favorite Brunellos, and although personal tastes are fluid and may change from time to time, there is something timeless and solid about this wine. It's like a touchstone. The Casanova di Neri 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is graced with a similar interlude of elegant rose or crushed flower that we saw in the annata wine. It appears more prominently here, and with more shape and focused intensity. Make no mistake, Giacomo Neri builds wines for pleasure and sensual impact, and this wine ticks all those boxes. But it also shows floral elegance and sour cherry freshness that defies our expectations of the vintage." Robert Parker

Undeniably - and not only in the top vintage 2013 - one of the cult wines of Italy: in the nose beguiling scent of sour cherries and black berries, with hints of spices. In the mouth a variety of aromas, especially dark fruits. The perfectly integrated acidity and soft, almost sweet tannins characterise the long aftertaste. A wonderfully powerful, juicy and dense Brunello with excellent storage potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny, sparkling ruby, clear. Opened in the nose with fine spicy notes, some anchovies, in addition dark rose petals and much dark cherry. Very clear and precise, juicy cherry and elderberry, much fine-meshed, gripping tannin, salty and long, polished." Falstaff

"Casanova di Neri's 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is celebrating its 20th anniversary (1993-2013), and a special gold-label edition of the wine was made to commemorate this important milestone. I tasted the white label for this review. This is a bold and expressive Brunello that displays tightly knit aromas of Morello cherry, spice, leather and balsam herb that are the building blocks of the most beautiful Brunellos that come to mind. The Casanova di Neri house style implies a modern and sophisticated approach for sure. But the inner spirit and texture of Sangiovese is so fine and polished in its natural state that it hardly matters. The personality of the grape shines through with a loud and confident voice." Robert Parker

"This is a red that has such depth on the nose with red fruits, mushroom, rose petal and bark. Extremely complex. Full body, powerful and layered. Superb length. Exceptional wine. So much energy." James Suckling

"Tenuta Nuova hails from the Cetine vineyard, on a ridge near Sant'Angelo in Colle, in southern Montalcino. The Neri family developed this plot with clonal material from their Cerretalto vineyard. Ageing is in French tonneaux, with a small percentage of new oak. It's an intense, compact wine - though not necessarily rich - offering captivating nuances of brambly blackcurrant, wild fennel, smoke, and coffee. The palate is vibrant, framed by muscular but sophisticated tannins." Decanter

"Bright deep red. The youthfully reticent nose hints at flinty red cherry, blueberry, graphite, cedar and pepper. Then flavors similar to the aromas, and a tight acid spine and serious but polished tannins nicely extending and framing the brooding fruit notes and peppery flintiness on the long, deep, complex finish. A truly outstanding Tenuta Nuova Brunello that seems less fruit-forward and more shut down than usual but holds exciting promise. Interestingly, some of this wine’s elements, such as its flinty nuances, reminded me of Casanova di Neri’s Cerretalto Brunello (made with grapes grown at the opposite end of the Montalcino territory). I guess my palate needs to take a vacation. This knockout wine will age splendidly and will likely merit an even higher score in eight to ten years’ time." Ian d’Agata (vinous.com)

"Sweet, ripe strawberry and cherry fruit melds seamlessly with the dense, refined structure of this red. Saline, licorice and spice accents add complexity as this lingers gracefully on the finish. Terrific harmony and expression." Wine Spectator

20 years Tenuta Nuova - on this occasion a small part of the vintage (0.75l) and all large formats were provided with a golden anniversary label.

Undeniably - and not only in the top vintage 2013 - one of the cult wines of Italy: in the nose beguiling scent of sour cherries and black berries, with hints of spices. In the mouth a variety of aromas, especially dark fruits. The perfectly integrated acidity and soft, almost sweet tannins characterise the long aftertaste. A wonderfully powerful, juicy and dense Brunello with excellent storage potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny, sparkling ruby, clear. Opened in the nose with fine spicy notes, some anchovies, in addition dark rose petals and much dark cherry. Very clear and precise, juicy cherry and elderberry, much fine-meshed, gripping tannin, salty and long, polished." Falstaff

"Casanova di Neri's 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is celebrating its 20th anniversary (1993-2013), and a special gold-label edition of the wine was made to commemorate this important milestone. I tasted the white label for this review. This is a bold and expressive Brunello that displays tightly knit aromas of Morello cherry, spice, leather and balsam herb that are the building blocks of the most beautiful Brunellos that come to mind. The Casanova di Neri house style implies a modern and sophisticated approach for sure. But the inner spirit and texture of Sangiovese is so fine and polished in its natural state that it hardly matters. The personality of the grape shines through with a loud and confident voice." Robert Parker

"This is a red that has such depth on the nose with red fruits, mushroom, rose petal and bark. Extremely complex. Full body, powerful and layered. Superb length. Exceptional wine. So much energy." James Suckling

"Tenuta Nuova hails from the Cetine vineyard, on a ridge near Sant'Angelo in Colle, in southern Montalcino. The Neri family developed this plot with clonal material from their Cerretalto vineyard. Ageing is in French tonneaux, with a small percentage of new oak. It's an intense, compact wine - though not necessarily rich - offering captivating nuances of brambly blackcurrant, wild fennel, smoke, and coffee. The palate is vibrant, framed by muscular but sophisticated tannins." Decanter

"Bright deep red. The youthfully reticent nose hints at flinty red cherry, blueberry, graphite, cedar and pepper. Then flavors similar to the aromas, and a tight acid spine and serious but polished tannins nicely extending and framing the brooding fruit notes and peppery flintiness on the long, deep, complex finish. A truly outstanding Tenuta Nuova Brunello that seems less fruit-forward and more shut down than usual but holds exciting promise. Interestingly, some of this wine’s elements, such as its flinty nuances, reminded me of Casanova di Neri’s Cerretalto Brunello (made with grapes grown at the opposite end of the Montalcino territory). I guess my palate needs to take a vacation. This knockout wine will age splendidly and will likely merit an even higher score in eight to ten years’ time." Ian d’Agata (vinous.com)

"Sweet, ripe strawberry and cherry fruit melds seamlessly with the dense, refined structure of this red. Saline, licorice and spice accents add complexity as this lingers gracefully on the finish. Terrific harmony and expression." Wine Spectator

Bright, deep red. Captivating aromas of sweet red berries, cinnamon, violets and liquorice on the nose. Fruity and full on the palate: refined, juicy flavours of red plums and raspberries remain bright and lively on the fresh back end. Neri's 2017 vintage once again sets the standard in terms of opulence and complexity in this not-so-easy year and proves the winery's class! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby with a fine garnet rim. Fragrant and appealing nose, opens with fine spicy notes, after coriander seeds, then lots of ripe cherry, plus some rosewood. Round and smooth in the attack and course, fine cherry fruit also on the palate, hearty, well-integrated tannin, sweet melting in the final." Falstaff

"Dusty florals, musky cherry and raspberry with hints of mentholated herbs waft up from the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino. This is enveloping and soft, with sweet exotic spices and juicy, vibrant acidity giving way to tart wild berries and rosy inner florals. There’s amazing length, hard red candies and violets, and sweet tannin that goes on and on, creating a somewhat chewy yet also fresh expression. The 2017 benefits from all of the fruit that would usually go into the single-vineyard Cerretalto Brunello, though even with it, production is down by 35%. That said, this is stunning juice." Vinous

"This fleshy red is introduced by graphite, mint and wild herb aromas, with plum and cherry flavors as the main themes and earth, tobacco and underbrush notes in supporting roles. Balanced, ending in a savory aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The Casanova di Neri 2017 Brunello di Montalcino delivers unexpected grace and a floral profile that is not common to find in this scorching-hot and dry vintage. In faithful Casanova di Neri fashion, the wine is bold and dark in appearance, and although the bouquet is dominated by purple and black fruits, there is a brief interlude of fresh garden rose or lilac. That little moment changes up the momentum of this wine in a most positive way by allowing for a harmony of low tones and high tones that are well matched here. The wine is robust, structured and velvety to the palate, but ultimately this expression is far more delicate than I would have ever expected for a 2017 Brunello. This is a nice surprise." Robert Parker

Everything is in the right place here: intense bouquet of sour cherry with nuances of chocolate, spices, liquorice and herbs. Energetic and highly vital on the palate. Wonderfully layered and seamlessly integrated aromas of dark fruits open up with every sip, paired with a subtle vein of salt. Its tannins are like velvet and silk, the long, sweeping finish reveals that Sangiovese excellence we love so much at Casanova di Neri! SUPERIORE.DE

"Smart bouquet of forest fruits, spices and tobacco, gently caressed by cocoa notes; precise construction with polished tannins and vivid acidity, but behind it also plenty of power and fullness, finishes long. Reliable as in every vintage." Vinum

"Sparkling intense ruby with fine garnet shimmer. Very clear and precise nose, smells of ripe, whole plums, tobacco and cardamom in the background. Clear and present on the palate, opens with lots of grippy tannin in several layers, juicy fruit, all embedded in fine enamel, rich pressure in the finish." Falstaff

"Tile and balsamic aromas with red plums and cherries. Full-bodied with a pretty center palate and ripe, rich fruit. It's a little timid now, but shows violets, bark and black cherries at the finish." James Suckling

"Casanova di Neri's 2016 Brunello di Montalcino is a wine of pleasurable contrasts but also massive structure. Ripe dark fruits and autumnal spices offset savory herbs and hints of animal musk. It enters the mouth silky, cooling and lifted, with a noticeable inner sweetness to its polished cherry/berry flavors, but it then sways more toward inner earth, minerals and grippy tannins. The 2016 urges you to take another sip, as there's so much upfront appeal; yet each time you do, it reminds you once again that it's a painfully young Brunello in need of cellaring. That said, the potential here is incredibly high." Vinous

"The Casanova di Neri 2016 Brunello di Montalcino (or the so-called "white label" Brunello) takes a minute or two to open, and like all these new releases from the Neri family, you're best off opening your bottle five hours before serving them. This classic expression displays raspberry, tar, hazelnut, dried fig, asphalt and some crushed chalk. The wine is streamlined and compact in terms of mouthfeel, giving us an accessible Brunello from a benchmark Montalcino estate." Robert Parker

"The 2016 vintage was marked by significant day and nighttime temperature differences. Gianlorenzo Neri says this was particularly pronounced in Montalcino's northeast, where the vineyards for the estate's 'white label' are found. With beautiful focus off the bat, this grabs your attention immediately. Black raspberry and wild cherry give way to liquorice, wet stones and smoke. The fruit is velvety, but quickly hemmed in by powdery, grippy tannins which retreat a bit on the finish, likes waves, leaving rose and violets in their wake. Vibrant and racy." Decanter

"Shows fine depth, with cherry, black currant and wild herb flavors, accented by iron, earth, leather and tobacco notes. Muscular, despite a slim frame, with a long, savory aftertaste." Wine Spectator

Giacomo Neri's Pietradonice is Cabernet Sauvignon at the highest level and has become a legend, as there is hardly a wine in Montalcino that can even come close to it. Monumental and very concentrated, with hints of sour cherries and a fine cedar and liquorice note. The exciting thing: Pietradonice is clearly recognisable as a Montalcino growth and yet, with its herbaceous spiciness, it is just as typical of Neri as it is of the grape variety and thus again as if from another larger world. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Pietradonice, a varietal Cabernet Sauvignon from the south-east of Montalcino, is dark as it grumbles up from the glass, showing dusty rose, currents, cherries and smoke. This is velvety in feel yet wonderfully lifted and fresh, steadily building in tannic heft yet packed full of graphite-like mineral-tinged black fruits and dark inner florals. A hint of sour citrus keeps you coming back for more even as the Pietradonice flexes its structural heft. Give the 2018 five to seven years before attempting to enjoy the full potential buried within." Vinous

"Aromas of blackberry, plum, dark chocolate, mushroom, earth and five spice. Full-bodied with fine tannins. Chewy and structured on the palate with a chalky texture. Balanced, layered and well defined. Long, savory finish. Drinkable now, but best from 2023." James Suckling

Undeniably - and not only in the 2017 vintage - one of Italy's cult wines: a beguiling nose of sour cherries and black berries, with hints of spices. In the mouth a variety of aromas, especially dark fruits. The perfectly integrated acidity and soft, almost sweet tannins characterise the long finish. A wonderfully powerful, juicy and dense Brunello with excellent storage potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, sparkling garnet red. Intense nose with notes of pomegranate, red beet, then lots of plum and dark cherry. Hearty and gripping on the palate, dark berry fruit, then opens up with lots of dense tannin, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Tenuta Nuova hails from Casanova di Neri’s Le Cetine vineyard in Montalcino’s south. With a full southern exposure from east to west, it is a sun soaked, Mediterranean expression of Brunello. The 2017 takes a bit of coaxing at first but then cherry bark, cinnamon, liquorice root and gardenia arise from the glass. Upfront, gritty tannins dissolve slowly into a fine dusty powder, revealing supple, round black currants. Citrussy acidity keeps this lively while dark chocolate and mint notes linger." Decanter

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Cascina Nuova lifts up with a layered display of peppery herbs, musky plums, black raspberry, crushed stone, tobacco and smoke. It’s silky yet juicy, pliant and staining to the senses, offering violet and lavender tones balanced by cooling acids and hints of candied citrus. The 2017 really plays with the palate; it’s spicy, long and intense, and lightly structured yet classically dry. Balsamic herbs, salted licorice – it goes on and on like a spice box menagerie. An elegant pleasure bomb." Vinous

"Expressive, complex and long, despite its compact profile today. Delivers black cherry, blackberry, violet, mineral and tobacco flavors that prevail, while assertive yet refined tannins leave their mark on the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"Lots of red plums and cherries on the nose with a palate that has a full body, thick silky tannins and a fresh and flavorful finish. The tannins are in good balance against the ripe fruit. Fresh and transparent at the end." James Suckling

"This is one of my all-time favorite Brunellos, and although personal tastes are fluid and may change from time to time, there is something timeless and solid about this wine. It's like a touchstone. The Casanova di Neri 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is graced with a similar interlude of elegant rose or crushed flower that we saw in the annata wine. It appears more prominently here, and with more shape and focused intensity. Make no mistake, Giacomo Neri builds wines for pleasure and sensual impact, and this wine ticks all those boxes. But it also shows floral elegance and sour cherry freshness that defies our expectations of the vintage." Robert Parker

Here, excellence of man and nature come together with perfect precision and harmony. Powerful cherry and blackberry notes are followed by crushed minerals, liquorice, smoke and lightly scented cedar. Spreads evenly across the palate and its flavour intensity, power and volume last for minutes. The exquisite 2015 Cerretalto is concentrated and rich, but never too heavy or dense. It is a highly compelling Italian icon with the truly exciting world of perceived unlimited possibilities still ahead of it. We can be more than excited ... SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny, rich ruby garnet. Opens with light spicy notes, some cardamom seeds, then lots of crisp, dark cherry, mulberry, light truffle note in the background. Fans out broadly on the palate, lots of ripe, juicy fruit, opens up on the back end with tight, precise tannin, exceedingly long, savoury and gripping, a definite long runner!" Vinous

"The 2015 Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto is remarkably fresh and balanced despite its large-scale persona. Minty herbs give way to raspberry and cherry with exotic spices and a hint of pine resin. It boasts depths of silky textures; yet it remains juicy and full of energy, displaying ripe red and black fruits, laced with salty minerals, as hints of cinnamon and baker's chocolate form toward the close. Fine tannins come forward on the finish, tugging at the cheeks, yet all under an air of sweet spice and violet florals. As young as this is today, it's hard to put the glass down, and I can only imagine the depths that will be revealed with five or more years of cellaring." Vinous

"Wild rosemary, thyme and juniper aromas and flavors frame the core of black cherry in this supple red. Firmly built, shows refined tannins embraced by the bright fruit. Very expressive and approachable now, yet should continue to improve." Wine Spectator

"Of these new releases from this benchmark estate, the Casanova di Neri 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto is my favorite wine. This Riserva is larger than life with ripe fruit, raspberry, cherry, spice, cola, root beer, mesquite and cedar. The wine offers a flashy and generous quality of fruit that unfolds over time with a multifaceted and multi-layered presentation. One thing that stands out here is the acidity that is bracing and tart at first but then succumbs to an important supporting role, rendering lasting freshness and persistence to the finish. With time, you get a flash of cherry and crème de cassis that seals the deal." Robert Parker

"This is a momentous wine with incredible power and structure that has so much minerality and crushed-stone character to the black cherries and blueberries. Full-bodied and tannic, yet the tannins are layered and polished with a glorious, creamy and juicy texture that coats your mouth. It goes on for minutes. Incredible wine." James Suckling

Superb - the Cerretalto 2012, a plant from a historical top location in the west of Montalcino. In the bouquet, spicy accents and aromas of soft sour cherries and blackberries give the scent. The impeccable taste impresses with its dynamic and weighty character, the dense tannin with good supporting effect, the respectable acidity and a first class finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"A rich, deep ruby with a garnet shimmer. Intense and complex nose, with dark cherries, violets, fresh, juicy plums, olive paste and dried tomatoes, very inviting. Rich, firm base on the palate, lots of warmth, dark, ripe fruit, dense tannin interwoven with sweet enamel, salty and long, for lying clean!" Falstaff

"The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto offers a prolonged, flowing and carefully massaged drinking experience that drapes over the senses with some studied intensity and lots of intriguing complexity. This wine nails that perfect balance between power and elegance (that elusive exchange that so many winemakers hope to achieve) with effortless precision. Bold cherry fruit and spice are tightly woven together. In the mouth, the wine shows texture, depth and succulence. Generally speaking, this is not my favorite vintage in Montalcino, but this wine suddenly made me forget that thought." Robert Parker

"Flavors of medicinal herbs, juniper, macerated cherry, plum, tobacco and spice are the hallmarks of this intense red. Ripe and concentrated, yet sleek and focused, with spice notes chiming in on the long, minerally and firmly tannic finish." Wine Spectator

"The density is so impressive in this great single-vineyard wine of Casanova. It's full yet agile at the same time. Shows such integrated tannins and fresh acidity at the finish. Energized and focused. Tangy and citrusy. Mineral undertone. One of the great Brunellos of 2012." James Suckling

Deep dark velvety ruby red. Opulent bouquet of sour cherry, mulberry, slightly moist leaves and laurel. In addition the typical Neri spice after wood, tobacco and broom. On the palate, an open-hearted fruit paired with the precision of a monumental Brunello skeleton, which, in addition to fine sweetness, maintains a balance with the taut acid nerve and leads to an almost infinite finish. A class wine, as it rarely comes into our glass. SUPERIORE.DE

"Seductive nose with a potpourri of fruity, floral and spicy notes, cinnamon and plums above all; on the palate with well-balanced acidity and dense tannins, well-dosed mineral nuances, ending promising on notes of wild berries, leather and liquorice. Excellent Brunello, who can even gain with the ripeness." Vinum

"Sparkling, intense ruby with a slight garnet hue. Complex and appealing nose, intense dark, ripe cherry, some plum, then also notes of slate and liquorice. Powerful and powerful on the palate, reveals itself with much dense tannin, interwoven, much present fruit, in the final saturated pressure." Falstaff

"Deep luminous ruby-red. Spicy red cherry and mineral nuances on the nose and in the mouth. Enters fresh and juicy with noteworthy flesh and size to the red and blue fruit flavors, then suave and refined all the way onto the long refined finish. Closes with youthfully chewy tannins and a tactile mouthfeel offering hints of flinty minerals and raspberry. A brooding giant that is extremely elegant and refined. Very well done." VINOUS

"There’s a lot in this wine, in terms of complexity, that is all underpinned by concentrated, ripe and assertive red cherries. The oak is nicely placed and there’s a sense of purpose and build on the palate that really sets it apart. High-class tannins." James Suckling

"Youthful-looking mid ruby. Dark fruit with impressive depth and with a hint of gingerbread. Lovely, tangy dark-cherry fruit and loads of powdery tannins that are a little demanding right now. Needs much more age." Jancis Robinson

"This intense version is concentrated, with black cherry, blackberry, graphite, tobacco and spice flavors, yet remains light-footed due to the racy profile. Structured, yet beautifully balanced and youthful. Shows purity and length on the aftertaste, which introduces a floral component." Wine Spectator

"There are a handful of wines in Italy that make me nervous before I taste them because my expectations are so high. This is one of those wines. Indeed, previous editions of Cerretalto have earned the coveted 100 point score, and I am astutely aware of the pedigree and potential that comes forth with each new vintage. As enthusiastic as my assessment of the 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto is, I'm stopping short of that perfect score. This vintage is something of a moving target with wines that are beautiful, without a doubt, yet the growing conditions were not even across the appellation, and achieving optimal tannic management posed a challenge to many producers. If I were to make any criticism of this wine, it would fall along those lines. That aside, this is a beautiful Brunello that boasts deep intensity and bold black fruit flavors that are plummy and rich. Spice, toasted oak and tobacco frame that primary fruit. Cerretalto ages in oak for 30 months and that strong imprint has added to the structure, depth and contemporary character of this A-list Brunello. That oak imprint is also reinforced in the wine's tannins. There's no doubt that this wine needs more cellar aging. I would absolutely not suggest drinking it within the next five years. Any awkwardness it shows now should iron itself out with more bottle time." Robert Parker

Cerretalto wins in the exceptional 2016 vintage with beautiful, natural complexity and fine oak tones surrounded by cinnamon, clove, chocolate and exotic spices. On the palate, dark, dense, ripe fruit and firm tannins. Incredibly long and deep with amazingly fresh acidity and fine salinity. For us, the perfect Riserva of this great vintage and made for decades! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby with a fine garnet rim. Multi-layered nose with notes of dark cherries, blackberries, rosewood, slightly earthy tones behind, clear and memorable. Has lots of plump fruit on the attack, juicy dark cherry, plum, then opens up with fine-meshed tannin in many layers, very good tension and length, elegant and finely defined, long finish." Falstaff

"There’s something intriguing, alluringly dark, earthy – animal, even – yet floral and packed full of rich black fruits and exotic spices that defines the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto. This impresses with its cool-toned dark berries and minerals, complemented by bright acidity and sweet inner herbal tones. It’s not yet ready to reveal all of its charms, though it drops subtle hints each step of the way. A bitter twang keeps the expression lively and fresh, while grippy tannins saturate deeply and leave the palate aching with youthful tension, as notes of licorice, clove and a hint of ginger linger. What a wine!" Vinous

"A dense, racy and expressive red, offering black cherry, black currant, violet, iron and a hint of rosemary aromas and flavors. This is driven by vivid acidity and refined tannins, which lend both finesse and length. Features great harmony and elegance." Wine Spectator

"Cerretalto is bottled separately in selected vintages only. It is given an additional year of ageing and is typically still patently austere when released. While the 2015 was almost uncharacteristically fleshy, 2016 is a return to Cerretalto’s sinewy personality. It opens gradually with distinct flint, creosote and smoke-infused wild black currants and thyme. The palate is powerful without being weighty, with chiselled tannins that are rigid but not hard-edged. A concentrated core of black salted liquorice, black raspberry and iron is pierced by tangy acidity. Ultimately an elegant wine, this will need time to express all its nuance." Decanter

"Here's an important keepsake from a classic vintage. The Casanova di Neri 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto needs time to open, especially if you plan to drink the wine earlier than is recommended. This powerful wine is packed tight with black fruit, plum and summer ripe cherry. Those dark fruit tones segue to spice, baked clay, balsam herb and gardening soil. The oak is always more apparent in the Cerretalto (which is released one year later, as if it were a Riserva) compared to the Tenuta Nuova. The vineyard used makes a big difference, giving this wine more textural weight and thicker fiber. It's all a question of taste, but if you want power, richness, sensuality and voluptuousness in your Brunello, Cerretalto is the bottle at the end of the rainbow." Robert Parker

"Wow. Incredible purity and transparency with cherries, bark, mushroom, flower and slate/stone on the nose. Full-bodied yet agile and fresh with a fine tannin structure that runs the length of the wine and goes on forever. The polish, elegance and grace is breathtaking. Power with agility. A revelation for the 2016 vintage in Brunello. Drink in 2024 and onwards but wonderful to taste now." James Suckling

Giacomo Neri's Pietradonice is Cabernet Sauvignon at the highest level and has become a legend, as there is hardly a wine in Montalcino that can even come close to it. Monumental and very concentrated, with hints of sour cherries and a fine cedar and liquorice note. The exciting thing: Pietradonice is clearly recognisable as a Montalcino growth and yet, with its herbaceous spiciness, it is just as typical of Neri as it is of the grape variety and thus again as if from another larger world. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Pietradonice, a varietal Cabernet Sauvignon from the south-east of Montalcino, is dark as it grumbles up from the glass, showing dusty rose, currents, cherries and smoke. This is velvety in feel yet wonderfully lifted and fresh, steadily building in tannic heft yet packed full of graphite-like mineral-tinged black fruits and dark inner florals. A hint of sour citrus keeps you coming back for more even as the Pietradonice flexes its structural heft. Give the 2018 five to seven years before attempting to enjoy the full potential buried within." Vinous

"Aromas of blackberry, plum, dark chocolate, mushroom, earth and five spice. Full-bodied with fine tannins. Chewy and structured on the palate with a chalky texture. Balanced, layered and well defined. Long, savory finish. Drinkable now, but best from 2023." James Suckling