2013 Brunello di Montalcino Altesino

An intense perfume of juniper, bay laurel, sage, rose and berries marks this silky red. The structure is there, yet superb balance and refined tannins help this retain elegance through the long finish. Almost ethereal in its presence. Best from 2021 through 2036.-B.S.

The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino is absolutely unique in terms of its aromatic display. To me, the nose is particularly beautiful because I have a preference for balsamic notes of cola, mint or medicinal herb (that may not be to everyone's liking). You get those in spades here. These aromas are often more prominent in cooler vintages like 2013 in the Brunello appellation. In this case, they resemble intense eucalyptus. There is subtle fruit at the back, with wild berry and plum. The mouthfeel here is absolutely silky, fresh and streamlined. It is stitched finely together like lace. I am curious to see how a wine like this ages and whether the aromas hold tight or eventually fall flat. I would suggest a slightly shorter drinking window. But for now, this is my kind of Brunello. Bottoms up! 2020 - 2030.

A wealth of ripe fruit with spice, orange peel and cherry. Full body, fine tannins and a bright and vivid finish. Drink in 2021.

Originally founded in 1970, today Altesino is owned by Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini, who bought the property in 2002. It counts 45ha of vineyards throughout Montalcino, and while this is a blend of various plots, the character suggests northerly origins. Vibrantly fresh on the nose, this offers up redcurrant, cherry blossom, mint and pepper aromas. In the mouth it is mid-weight at best, with a lovely lightness of texture, juicy acidity and a subtle grip. Drinking Window 2018 - 2028.

Tæt næse med kompleks mørkerød frugt, varme krydderier og orangeskal. Lille støvethed som supplementerer frugten fint. Saftig smag med flot integreret tannin og røde bær, lakrids, blomme og orange. Meget fin struktur med frugtighed og kompleksitet. God Balance. Finesse og power.

Bright red. Extremely perfumed aromas of violet and raspberry on the enticing nose. Then more raspberry, but also blueberry and strawberry flavors and a strong juicy fruit- cocktail-like quality on the palate that persists nicely. Really lovely Brunello bursting at the seams with fresh bright fruit, and already utterly irresistible now. I had trouble not gulping my glass down all at once.