~ The winding entrance to the Le Potazzine Cantina ~
Le Potazzine is the Italian word for the very colorful and vivacious birds which inhabit the Tuscan countryside. In Montalcino, grandparents and parents alike often use the word as a term of endearment for children. In fact, the current owner’s mother calls her granddaughters by this warm nickname.
Le Potazzine was created in 1993 with barely three hectares of vineyards. In 1996, the estate was expanded by two hectares bringing the total area registered for Brunello production to 5 hectares. Today, all of the estate’s vineyards are certified organic.
~ Le Potazzine’s 5 hectares lie within sight of Montalcino ~
The Le Potazzine estate sits on the SP 103 south west of Montalcino with vineyards that sit between 300 and 500 meters above sea level. Production averages about 35,000 bottles split evenly between Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino and in excellent vintages (only 4 since 1993) a tiny amount of Brunello Riserva is produced. Aging takes place in a variety of Slavonian oak botte from 30-50 hectoliters.
The last time I visited with this estate, I tasted the 2012 for my Annual Coverage. There was no complaining about that amazing wine and there’s no complaining about the recent vintages either; save for the price which has nearly doubled.
~ The Sunsets majestically over Le Potazzine ~
The 2015 Le Potazzine Brunello is an array of dramatic colors. The center of the bowl is a deep crimson but violet, garnet, brick and even orange highlights can be seen in this pretty Sangiovese. The wine is aged for 42 month in large Slavonian oak.
On the nose, aromas of crushed cherry, sandalwood and toasted spices are notable. On the palate, the wine is full bodied but with finely integrated tannins. The sense is one of elegance rather than power yet the structure of this wine is formidable. Wild flowers, crushed cherry, warmed earth and peppery spice contribute complexity. Stays fresh and juicy through the finish. Decant and drink now but this will cellar well for a decade or more. 95 points. About $90. Find this wine.
~ Another masters class in Sangiovese Grosso coloring from the Le Potazzine ~
Basta – a salute!
Great write up John. Finally decided after seeing your report to crack my six pack. Not unhappy I did. Approachable now, but will only get better with age. Just ordered a six pack of the 2 016’s. Salute my friend.
I agree and with 6 in your arsenal, you can’t go wrong trying one young. Cheers! Glad you enjoyed.