Le Macioche Brunello di Montalcino 2017

Underbrush, leather, mature black-skinned fruit and camphor aromas form the nose. Full-bodied and enveloping, the smooth, concentrated palate features fleshy Morello cherry, blood orange and licorice alongside taut, enveloping tannins. Drink through 2023-2028.

The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino comes to life slowly in the glass. This is a dark, brooding and powerful expression of the vintage, with balsam herbs giving way to a smoky mix of black raspberry and plum. It coasts across the palate with ease, silky and refined, presenting a pure display of ripe red berries that give way to inner purple-tinged florals and hints of leather. While grippy and structured, the 2017 remains energetic and fresh through the finale, leaving hints of violet and lavender to linger on. This is the first Le Macioche Brunello that was wholly produced by the Cotarella family since the purchase of the estate in 2017. From this showing, I'd say that the winery and vineyards are in good hands.

Loamy clay, plum and cherry flavors are the highlights of this firm, slightly rigid red, with red fruit accents of cherry and strawberry seeping in as this winds down on the long finish. Elements of tobacco and spice add depth. Best from 2024 through 2040. 1,100 cases made, 500 cases imported.