~ Flowers between vines rows on the Piancornello Estate ~
Generally speaking, although it will go down as a vintage that was better than its immediate predecessor, 2018 was not without challenges. Depending upon your location, the vintage was marred by severe thunderstorms, wind and hail. Late in the summer, temperatures spiked and the effect on the vines depended upon location, exposure and elevation. I’ve said before that vines are like people. They can tolerate extremes in temperatures but when those changes occur suddenly, they can have an adverse impact.
~ Vineyards on the Piancornello Estate ~
The Piancornello Estate is located between Sant’Angelo in Colle and Castenuovo dell’Abate and is nestled on a plateau with Mount Amiata brooding on the horizon. The vineyards cover a surface area of around 20 hectares that are rich in rocks and stones. Since 2016 the estate has been certified organic and produces three wines: Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino and a small amount of IGT.
~ The entrance to the Cantina at Piancornello ~
The 2018 Piancornello Rosso di Montalcino is a medium to light violet in color. In the picture below you can clearly see right through the wine to the backsplash in my kitchen. The nose of this Rosso is fairly well defined with ripe red plum, strawberry and menthol aromas. There is a sensation of alcohol when you inhale the wine.
On the palate the wine is medium bodied with nice concentration but the fruit character seems overripe and lacks freshness. The menthol notes are present and impart a sense of “heat” on the wine. Overall, it’s not the greatest impression and certainly one I would not consider stocking up on. For what it is, it’s also a little pricey at $25. 86 points. Find this wine.
~ The Piancornello Rosso displays some of the effects of heat from the vintage ~
Stay tuned for coverage of more recent releases as they become available.
Salute!
