2015 Brunello di Montalcino V. V.

Tasted blind. Mid ruby with orange tinges and already showing some development. Savoury and a little stalky on the nose with a hint of old leather. Gripping tannins framing ripe, round fruit. Long and satisfying and can be approached now. (WS)

Wild cherries, dried blueberries and dark currants open the bouquet of Le Ragnaie's 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Ragnaie V. V. The cherry signature is forefront, and it emerges with medicinal and balsamic notes towed in close. Fruit comes from the estate's oldest vines (aged 50 years old) planted in the highest part of the appellation (at 600 meters above sea level). The bouquet is seamless, putting forth a chain of similar fruit and spice-related aromas that fall neatly in line. This effect is further reinforced as the wine evolves steadily in the glass. Of the various Brunello Selezioni presented by Le Ragnaie, this wine is the most classic in approach with a slightly more closed and austere personality that will serve it well as it continues its bottle evolution. The wine was bottled in April 2019 and will hit the market in February 2020. Only 3,500 bottles were made.

A deep, suggestive Brunello, redolent of forest floor, roasted tobacco, dried rosemary and toast. Chewy and decadent on the full-bodied palate, but the acidity is always there and the tannins never run astray. No doubt there’s hefty alcohol and fruit here, but the way it’s presented makes it all very integrated. Dark chocolate and salted caramel push through the long finish. Needs time. Drink from 2026.