Altesino : Montosoli 2017

This is one of the icon wines of Montalcino and one of the bottles that best captures the character of this prized vineyard cru. Altesino farms 4.5 hectares in Montosoli at 350 meters in elevation with galestro soils. 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. Production is limited to 15,000 bottles.

Altesino’s Montosoli ratchets it up a few notches from the estate bottling. Due to recent replanting, vines average 10 years of age, and the grapes were harvested the third week of September in 2017. It is bright, energetic and intriguing in its aromas of scented violet and balsamic herbs. Layers of powdery tannins build up, but there is stuffing to match. Pomegranate notes emerge on the long, lingering finish. 15,000 bottles produced.

It has a brilliant deep ruby red colour with a fine garnet shimmer. The nose is very vivid and fruity, with notes of fresh raspberry and dark cherry, and a subtle hint of fennel in the background. On the palate it is round and supple, with grippy tannins and a fine texture, and it is full-bodied with a beautiful drive on the finish.

This concentrated red is saturated with 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. Best from 2025 through 2045. 1,415 cases made, 250 cases imported.

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. Best from 2024.

Subtly scented, this has delicate aromas suggesting forest floor, ripe berry, eucalyptus and coffee bean. The full-bodied palate shows dried cherry, prune, licorice and the same coffee bean as the nose. Firm, tightly knit tannins provide support before a drying close. Drink 2023–2029.