~ The Bell Tower in Montalcino ~

I’m in a very casual mood.  Yes, my heart, my mind, and to a certain extent, even my body are still in Italy.  I feel at home there.  And as I sit here composing some thoughts from that wonderful country that can charm beyond words, frustrate to no end, and induce mountains of smiles and endless anecdotes,  I’m thrilled to be writing and excited to share story after story with you.  For a solid week we traipsed around Tuscany in a lovely Audi A3 that was more than capable of handling the twists, turns and hills of the many Provincial Roads and Strade Bianche.  Those lead to many a tasting – one of which I’m sharing today.

~ The vineyards of Gianni Brunelli ~

The Brunelli estate was established in 1987 when Gianni Brunelli purchased the vineyards of Le Chiuse di Sotto.  Originally intending to produce wine for his restaurant in Siena, it wasn’t long before Brunelli realized he could easily sell his production of Brunello.  His wife Laura began working by his side and after his passing in 2008, became the sole owner of the estate.  Today she is intimately involved in the it’s affairs, though Paolo Vagaggini is the winemaker.   Today the estate remains a small 14 hectares and we are looking at it’s latest release.

The 2015 Brunelli Rosso di Montalcino is impressive.  A classic color in the glass, its ruby core transcends to iodine at the rim of the bowl.  Those that read my website regularly may recall how impressed I was with the 2012 Rosso di Montalcinos when they were released. I think the 2015s are the best group of these wines ever to be made.

The wine exudes aromas of crushed fresh flowers, wild red berries and flinty mineral.  On the palate, the sensations from the nose continue and the dusty tannins are elegant and wonderfully integrated. Juicy flavors are medium bodied and wonderfully paired with grilled Cornish game hens, broccoli rabe and tomatoes with basil.  91 points and a pretty nice value around $24.   Want to find this wine?  Click: Wine Searcher

~ The 2015 Gianni Brunelli Rosso is lively, dusty and delicious ~

This will be the first of several data points I have to share on the 2015 Rossos. They are compelling wines so be on the watch for them and don’t hesitate to buy. The are delicious now and will cellar well for 1-3 years with no concern.

Salute!

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