Frescobaldi - Tenuta Castelgiocondo : Ripe al Convento 2015

The Frescobaldi 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Ripe al Convento di Castelgiocondo offers rich density and a soft texture with a good balance of fruit, spice and structure. Frescobaldi was among a handful of producers to make a Riserva in 2014, and this follow-up vintage clearly shows the superiority of the growing season. This 2015 edition has a better sense of balance and fruit, and there’s more meat on these bones. There’s also more fruit fiber for longer aging.

Black cherry, blackberry and blueberry flavors are the main themes in this harmonious red, with shades of cigar box, earth and underbrush. Firms up on the compact finish, which should relax with some time in the cellar. Fresh and long. Best from 2025 through 2047. 1,000 cases made.

Situated southwest of Montalcino at an altitude of around 300 metres, Castelgiocondo was one of the earliest producers of Brunello. The estate's Ripe al Convento vineyard sits at 450 metres, facing south on schisty Galestro soils. A hot, dry July was followed by refreshing rains in the first week of August. Damp earth, old wood, raspberry, and red and black cherry aromas are followed on the palate by a punch of tangy red fruits and acidity, which mellow to reveal fine-grained, ripe tannins and spicy oak notes. Succulent black cherry and blackberry appear on the mid-palate, with a menthol freshness that teams with the acidity to give a cleansing character. The finish features spicy wood and chocolate touches. Still youthful, this has plenty of life left in it yet.

A firm, silky red with black and red cherries and hints of mint. Undergrowth and wild-strawberry undertones. It’s full-bodied with super fine yet structured tannins that lead the wine down a deep and intense palate. A minerally, almost chalk and oyster-shell undertone to the fruit. Drink in 2023 and onwards.

Powerful, bright ruby with garnet highlights. Fine interplay on the nose, cranberries and blueberries, with resinous savoriness in the background. Grippy tannins that unfold in many layers, showing very good tension, dark cherry fruit, firm drive on the finish, and a very fresh impression.

Pipe tobacco, spiced plum, menthol and blue flower are some of the aromas you'll find on this enveloping wine. Full bodied and savory, the structured, generous palate combines muscle and finesse, doling out fleshy morello cherry, raspberry jam, licorice and a dollop of vanilla alongside velvety tannins. It's already approachable but will age well for several years or more. Drink through 2028.