2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Altesino

Red Aromas of juniper, rosemary, thyme and Szechuan peppercorn segue to strawberry, cherry and rose hip flavors in this elegant red. Intense and balanced, with the structure to develop over the next two decades. Shows excellent depth and length. Best from 2022 through 2043.

The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is all about elegance and finesse, and is a classic rendition from Altesino. As this highly attractive Brunello slowly opens it begins to release pretty aromas of red berries, dried florals, spices, juniper, leather, eucalyptus, and hints of citrus rind which all take shape in the glass . This possesses a medium body with ultra-fine tannins and a gorgeous silky texture that glides effortlessly across the palate. Balanced and refined, this classy Brunello continues to impress as it comes to an end with an incredible silky finish. While this is already drinking beautifully, it will only become even more compelling as evolves and develops its mature characteristics with time. 2021-2038.

Compared to 2014, the 2013 vintage was a breeze from a farming and winemaking point of view. A relatively stress free growing season tends to transmit more clarity and intensity to the finished product. That's the impression I get when I taste the savory, rich and sophisticated 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva. Some 10,000 bottles were released. This wine delivers thick ripeness with bold cherry aromas that are folded into spice, leather and tangy black licorice. This wine achieves a higher level of aromatic intensity compared to the elegant Altesino 2014 Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli (which I actually preferred at this tasting). However, my impression is that this riserva from 2013 will ultimately offer a more fruitful and interesting bottle evolution five to ten years from now. 2020 - 2040.