Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2021 (BIO)

Col d'Orcia | Tuscany
Col d'Orcia s.r.l. s.a. | Via Giuncheti | IT 53024 Montalcino

09132121 · 0,75 l · 50,67 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shippingavailable immediately

Sometimes a great vintage needs a bit of a scare to start with. In April 2021, the temperature in parts of Montalcino dropped to minus seven degrees – a late frost that affected the more vulnerable vineyards and reduced the harvest by around 15% compared with the previous year. What was a loss for some estates proved to be a boon for quality. Fewer grapes, greater concentration. The surviving vines seemed to know what was at stake. The rest of the year unfolded like a textbook example of classic Brunello meteorology: a normal spring, a hot, dry summer – then two crucial spells of rain in the second half of August, which provided the vineyards with water and gave the grapes their final aromatic complexity. The September nights cooled the Sant'Angelo in Colle vineyard to temperatures that distinguish phenolic ripeness characterised by true elegance. Harvesting did not begin until mid- to late September – patiently awaited, and fully justified.

The winemaking process for Col d'Orcia is, in its consistency, almost meditative: selection on harvest, maceration for 18 to 20 days at a maximum of 28°C in flat stainless-steel tanks, followed by a long journey through three years in large Slavonian and Allier oak casks (25 to 75 hl). At least twelve months' ageing in bottle. Count Francesco Marone Cinzano decided early on that the Sangiovese from this vineyard requires no intervention – only time, subtle oak and respect.

Intense ruby red with violet hues. The nose reveals Sangiovese at its most concentrated – dark cherry, pomegranate, tobacco, leathery notes, verbena and the finest toasted aromas from the long oak ageing. Powerful yet balanced on the palate: pronounced tannins with a silky, textured depth, lively acidity providing structure, and a very long finish with a mineral aftertaste. Slightly more tension than the 2020, but with more potential for the future than for the present – a Brunello that is already (somewhat) impressive today and will be truly thrilling in ten years' time! SUPERIORE.DE

"An intense, brilliant ruby red with violet highlights. Harmonious and inviting on the nose, with plenty of ripe fruit, reminiscent of wild raspberries and cherries, followed by black pepper and rosemary. Structured and juicy on the palate, with a precise structure and final spicy final." Falstaff

"The 2021 Brunello di Montalcino is youthfully delicate, with hints of dusty dried cherries, rose petals and liquorice. On the palate, it displays a rounded texture and refreshing acidity, with ripe red and black fruits underpinned by a hint of floral notes. The long, lively finish leaves behind fine-grained tannins and a pleasant chewiness." Vinous

"The 2021 Brunello di Montalcino, produced from organically grown grapes, is generous and sun-kissed, with aromas of black cherries, blackberries and sweet earth. The grapes from the estate's 100-hectare vineyards lend the wine a remarkable density and depth, reflecting the warmth of the vintage. On the palate, it is full-bodied and powerful, yet the Sangiovese's natural acidity ensures balance." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Brunello is a superb successor to the excellent 2020 vintage. It is a testament to the Marone Cinzano family's ongoing work in the vineyard to meet the challenges of a changing climate. It has a sparkling ruby-red colour and remains remarkably youthful in its aromas. Behind the peppery raspberry aromas lies a complex symphony that refreshes and fills the palate, with distinct notes of Mediterranean herbs, red cherries and blackcurrants. A truly substantial wine with an underlying juiciness. The well-integrated, chalky tannins should see it through for at least the next 12–15 years." Decanter

"Laced with cherry, blackberry and floral flavors, this expressive red also reveals iron and Mediterranean scrub notes. Lively and balanced, with a light dusting of tannins on the finish. Fine length." Wine Spectator

"A hint of hazelnut chocolate alongside ripe plums and cherries, with a touch of minerality and dried grapefruit. Structured and bright, with an almost full body and a juicy, vertical finish. There's a lot going on in the finish." James Suckling