Brunello di Montalcino “Vallocchio” DOCG 2021

Tenuta Fanti | Tuscany
Tenuta Fanti | Loc. Podere Palazzo 14 | IT 53024 Castelnuovo dell' Abate

09562721 · 0,75 l · 78,67 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shippingavailable immediately

In the early 14th century, a document from Castelnuovo dell'Abate mentions a place name: "Vallocchio Brunello" – situated between the fields known as "Podio Rubeo" and "Piage di Monte Caprile". This is the earliest documented reference to viticulture in this municipality. Seven centuries later, the five oldest vineyards of Tenuta Fanti stand on precisely this land. History has never ceased here. Filippo Fanti has studied, tended and observed this terroir for decades. In 2010, the time had come – the first Vallocchio. Since then, it has been released only in exceptional vintages: no pressure, no annual promise, but a selective statement of what the site truly has to offer in a particular season. Five hectares, vines aged between 20 and 35 years, well-drained, medium-textured galestro soils at an altitude of 230 to 250 metres above sea level. Hand-harvested from the second half of September until mid-October, depending on the aspect and plot.

Hand-sorted on three sorting tables, fermented and macerated at a controlled temperature in stainless steel, malolactic fermentation prior to ageing in wood, followed by maturation in French barriques and medium-sized casks – the same care as for the Annata Brunello, but with grapes that showcase this terroir in its most concentrated form. The 2021 vintage in Montalcino brought the kind of consistent ripening that suits Vallocchio: cooler nights, slow phenolic development, and pronounced structure without the heaviness caused by excessive heat.

An intense, deep ruby red. On the nose, dark cherry, violets, tobacco, dried herbs and a hint of mineral earth – complex and imbued with great serenity. On the palate, it is full-bodied and brooding, with finely woven tannins, balanced freshness and a final that lingers long and cleanly. Vallocchio – as if the name were a promise that the wine has been fulfilling since the 14th century. SUPERIORE.DE

"A firm, slightly smoky and toasty-meaty aroma of ripe, predominantly dark berries and tomato purée, with a hint of black olives, Mediterranean herbs, nuts, a touch of dark chocolate and a whiff of tobacco. On the palate, dense, ripe, juicy, slightly warm dark fruit, toasty and slightly smoky oak notes, dried herbs and dark, almost peppery aromatics; ripe, crumbly, sandy tannins, a hint of mocha and dark chocolate, a certain depth, plenty of power and noticeable alcohol, a very good, again slightly woody-spicy finish with plenty of ripe juice." Wein-Plus

"Enchants the nose with aromas of cherry and flowers, with a hint of vanilla and liquorice; delicately crafted on the palate, with robust tannins and invigorating acidity in perfect balance, and a long finish." Vinum

"Aromas and flavors of vanilla, coconut and sweet spices lead off, with attractive complementary fruit flavors of cherry and plum. In the end, the new oak adds a layer of tannins that upsets the harmony. If you are a betting person, give this time." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Fanti Brunello di Montalcino Vallocchio is generous and contemporary in style. It offers dark, plum-like fruit with integrated sweet spices and toasty notes, underpinned by good length and a pleasing mouthfeel. The 15.5% alcohol content and extended ageing in oak contribute to a fuller and more concentrated profile, with additional spicy and oaky notes lingering on the finish alongside firm tannins." Wine Advocate

"A robust and fruity red wine with plenty of smokiness, toasted oak, and balsamic and spicy aromas and flavours. Medium to full-bodied with juicy fruit and a long, flavourful finish. Needs time to soften. Try it after 2027." James Suckling