Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2021

Le Potazzine | Tuscany
Tenuta Le Potazzine s.r.l. | Loc. Le Prata, 262 | IT 53024 Montalcino

29552121 · 0,75 l · 118,67 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shippingavailable immediately

Gigliola Giannetti was born at the Argiano vineyard, the daughter of a cellar worker. She grew up amongst the barrels and vines; the scent of fermenting must was the scent of her childhood. At the age of 19, she went to work for Franco Biondi Santi; later, Giulio Gambelli encouraged her to make her own wine. In 1993, the time had come: her first plot of land, her first child – her daughter Viola. Three years later, she acquired a further two hectares and welcomed her daughter Sofia. Today, three women work together in the cellar, representing three generations of Montalcino in a single line. Le Potazzine is one of the highest-altitude estates in the appellation: 450 to 530 metres, where the harvest begins up to three weeks later than in the valley. What was once considered a disadvantage is now worth its weight in gold – the grapes ripen slowly, retain their acidity and develop finesse rather than mere power. The winemaking process is uncompromisingly traditional: spontaneous fermentation, 30 to 45 days' maceration, no temperature control. The wine then rests for 42 months in large Slavonian oak barrels – six months longer than is even required for a Riserva. Every Brunello from Le Potazzine is therefore, in fact, a Riserva. Why don’t they call it that? Modesty, or perhaps quiet pride.

The 2021 vintage demonstrates why this estate ranks amongst Montalcino's elite: bergamot, violets, sour cherry, a hint of tobacco and leather. Dense, velvety tannins that support rather than constrain, and a vibrant acidity that lends the wine tension and length. Not a wine for the impatient – but one that rewards those who give it time. Or as Gigliola says: "I'm not interested in producing excellent wines without a soul. There are already enough of those in the world." SUPERIORE.DE

"A rich, fleshy style, this displays cherry, plum, iron and earth flavors. Aligned with a solid structure, with lively acidity and dense, dusty tannins. Remains fresh and fluid throughout, lingering with energy on the aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"On the nose, this wine reveals notes of liquorice, charcoal, wild strawberries, black cherries, smoke and subtle citrus notes. On the palate, it is full-bodied, velvety and opulent, with elegant tannins, crisp acidity and a dense, extract-rich yet refined, spicy finish." James Suckling

"Still with a youthful, contemplative character, it offers notes of dried violets, grenadine and blackcurrants, alongside an earthy hint of truffle. It is very skilfully crafted, with pure fruit character and a sparkling mineral note. The rich tannins are gaining body, yet the wine as a whole remains wonderfully balanced in its proportions." Decanter

"The 2021 Brunello di Montalcino reflects the estate's loyal following, which is drawn to a distinctive style characterised by freshness and bright, expressive aromas. This vintage leans towards the more concentrated end of the spectrum, offering blackcurrants and wild plums whilst retaining its clarity and vibrancy. The tannins are still firm at this youthful stage, although the mouthfeel is already moving towards silkiness and should come into its own with a little more time in the bottle. This is a hallmark of the cooler, higher-altitude vineyards tended by Gigliola Giannetti and her daughters." Wine Advocate

"The youthful 2021 Brunello di Montalcino needs a little coaxing to reveal its youthful character, as swirling the glass releases nuances of dried roses, black cherries, cedar dust and sage. On the palate, it is pure seduction, highly sensual with dense waves of ripe red berry fruit and an almost creamy texture, balanced by lively acidity. A series of sweet tannins frames a subtle balsamic note, which adds a lovely touch to the experience and leaves the senses in a state of intense focus. The 2021 vintage is simply stunning and poised for a long ageing potential. Year after year, Le Potazzine has established itself as one of the finest Brunello producers." Vinous