“Terroir is a combined outcome of land, climate and culture. Terroir is the essence of great wines.”
Since about 1900, the Fuligni family, led by proprietor Giovanni Fuligni, has been producing wine on the eastern slopes of the Montalcino hill .
Today, the 100 hectare estate is run by Maria Fuligni. The Fuligni’s source Sangiovese for their Brunello from 4 distinct vineyard parcels across the zone, each with differing exposure and altitudes that vary from 300-450 meters above sea level. Only 10 hectares are under vine.
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| ~ The Entrance to the Fuligni Estate ~ |
In the past, I’ve been critical about Fuligni’s Brunello – not having been impressed greatly by either their 2007 or their 2009. However, the current wine is a completely different story. As I recently Tweeted (you can follow me on Twitter here: TuscanVines) I referred to Fuligni as the “Comeback Kid” for the performance of this wine – though that might be a misnomer of sorts since chronologically, today’s subject came before both of the above.
The 2006 Fuligni Brunello is everything you can expect from a classic Brunello in a classic vintage. I decanted the wine 60 minutes before dinner – a slight sediment was observed. In the glass, the wine is a deep ruby with the classic copper rim. The aromas are nothing short of gorgeous. Loads of ripe cherry, pipe tobacco, leather and fennel are prominent. I love it! On the palate, this wine is mouthwateringly delicious. A large core of juicy, ripe, sour cherry and wild berry form the focus that is accented with lots of fennel, mulch, spice and pepper notes. The tannins are still notable, but not intrusive and assist in providing structure. They succumbed nicely to the grilled porterhouse steak. Fuligni vinifies and ages its Brunello in a combination of barrels of various sized tonneaux and botte.
This was a happy revelation as I still have this sitting in the cellar. To attempt to explain my previous consternation with this estate, perhaps their style isn’t to my liking in hotter vintages? I don’t know – but this was outstanding. 95 points. About $60.
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| ~ Textbook Brunello color – look at the copper rim of the bowl ~ |
Salute!
Yea, I just checked and I have one of these; can't wait for an occasion to share with a friend!