It was only a few months ago that I took Rosso di Montalcino to task for its oft uneven behavior. Since then, I approached several producers and asked them to elaborate on my assertions. The results were interesting. But the overriding theme was mostly uniform. Rosso di Montalcino is getting better. With that in mind, I’ve begun receiving samples and today, we’re putting Piancornello to the test.
Piancornello “feels” like a new estate. I suppose this is because US importation and availability has only recently increased. But the estate has its roots in the 1950s. Today the estate is in the capable hands of Claudio Batazzi, the 4th generation proprietor to run the property. From 2016, the estate is certified organic.
Piancornello’s vineyards are small and carefully tended. Covering a surface area of only 20 hectares, the Batazzi’s are attentive to the entire production process. Brunello, Rosso, and a small amount of Ciliegiolo are produced for a total production of approximately 50,000 bottles.
The 2019 Piancornello Rosso di Montalcino is a bright, medium ruby. Fresh flowers, crushed cherry and hints of vanilla appear on the nose. Medium bodied on the palate which is very smooth. Bright cherry, with hints of tarragon and oregano; the fruit is sweet and sapid and tinged with toasted spices. The tannins assert themselves on the finish a bit but that’s nothing that 1 year in the cellar won’t cure. Impressive. I reserved 1/2 the bottle for the second night and this hadn’t budged an inch. 15% abv. ! But you’d never know it by how silky smooth this is. 92 points. Find this wine & Support Tuscan Vines.
As the 2019 Rosso di Montalcino begin hitting the market, I will continue to bring them to you. Il Poggione is next and Fattoria Barbi is coming soon too. Salute!