Altesino Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli 2017

Altesino’s 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli is a testament to the esteemed Montosoli vineyard, renowned for producing some of Montalcino’s most distinguished wines. Situated northeast of Montalcino at elevations between 350 and 400 meters, this 5-hectare vineyard benefits from unique marly and siliceous limestone soils, contributing to the wine’s exceptional complexity and elegance. 

Tasting Notes:

• Appearance: Deep ruby red, transitioning to garnet with age.

• Bouquet: Aromas of black cherry, blackberry, raspberry, violet, licorice, vanilla, and a hint of pink peppercorn.

• Palate: Dry, warm, and velvety, rich in substance with a noble pedigree, culminating in a lingering, warm finish. 

Critical Acclaim:

• James Suckling: 97 points

• “Super clean black fruit and minerals on the nose and palate. Floral and herbal nuances too. Medium-to full-bodied with very fine tannins and a long finish. This is super-clean, long and balanced. Despite the difficult vintage, Montosoli shows its class. One of the wines of the vintage.” 

• Wine Spectator: 95 points

• “This concentrated red is saturated by black currant, blackberry and blueberry flavors, with notes of iron, tar, tobacco and wild herbs chiming in as it evolves toward the long finish. So fresh and fruity, it’s hard to believe this is a 2017 if not for the stiff tannins. Shows superb balance and complexity.” 

• Wine Advocate: 95 points

• “This is one of the icon wines of Montalcino and one of the bottles that best captures the character of this prized vineyard cru. The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli is darkly concentrated and rich. It shows an almost creamy consistency that was not easy to achieve in this hot vintage that tends to underline tannic power and alcohol. Instead, this wine offers a steady stream of dark fruit flavors that transition to spice, leather and sweet tobacco.” 

• Vinous: 94+ points

• “The aromatics alone are worth the price of entry on the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli. A dazzling display is revealed as this opens like a basket of freshly picked flowers with ripe strawberries, cloves and a hint of plum sauce that adds gravitas. Its elegance is nicely matched by a balanced inner sweetness as mineral-tinged red berries are contrasted by hints of sour citrus and savory spice.” 

With its profound depth and refined structure, the 2017 Montosoli exemplifies the harmonious interplay between terroir and expert winemaking, solidifying its status as a standout in the Brunello di Montalcino appellation.