“We are facing a vintage with a slender profile that displays a definite herbal freshness. It is a graceful vintage, slightly more concentrated compared to the 2013, that is distinguished by its elegance and tertiary scents. The very intense structure remains perfectly balanced and enhances the complexity and the aromas of this wine.” -Jacopo Biondi Santi
Tasting Notes:
Intense ruby red in color. A graceful scent of citrus peel with nuances of withered rose, spice and fresh red fruits. There is a surprising note of red fruit; cherry is dominant and notes of red berries pop up in the background. Firm tannins with a deep structure lead to a long, lingering finish.
2012 VINTAGE NOTES
A dry June and July led to a hot August with occasional light rain. September was cool with a fair amount of rain in the week leading into harvest, which began on September 10.
VINEYARDS
Varietal Composition: 100% Sangiovese Grosso (BBS11 Clone) Source: 100% estate vineyards
Vine Age: 10-25 years
VINIFICATION
The grapes were healthy, ripe and rich in color with thick skins. The must was rich in sugar, extracts and acidity.
Fermentation: Combination concrete vats and Slavonian oak barrels using indigenous yeast
Aging: 36 months in Slavonian oak, followed by 1 year in bottle
Reviews:
96 Wine Enthusiast
“Underbrush, ripe berry, new leather and Mediterranean herb aromas slowly take shape in the glass. Showing youthful tension, the vibrant palate delivers red cherry, pomegranate, white pepper and pipe tobacco notes framed by bright acidity and taut, refined tannins. It already shows great balance and finesse but is still young and tight.”
94 Vinous
“Bright red. Fresh, complex aromas of sweet red berries, pomegranate, sour red cherry, orange peel, violet and brown spices. Bright and juicy, with building density and multilayered flavors of sour red cherries and raspberry, complicated by a hint of peach. Finishes long and clean with strong mineral and floral nuances. This is an extremely fruity and remarkably ready to drink Brunello for this property, known for tough as nails wines when young that normally require lots of patience. Still, despite its obvious upfront charm, this has real structure and depth and will age well. Easily one of the top three Brunellos of the vintage.”