Casanova di Neri, Brunello di Montalcino (Tuscany, Italy) 2012

 The Casanova di Neri ranks among the best producers of Brunello di Montalcino.  The family estate was founded in 1971 and, with meticulous research and care, has expanded its vineyard holdings over its four decades.  Their Tenuta Nuova Brunello, in a ripe vintage like 2012, shows exceptional depth and character. With a half-hour’s aeration, the pure blackberry and cherry fruit of the grape emerges and is enhanced by lovely floral, herb, earth, cocoa and spice elements.  The flavors are big and bold and show plush blackberry and cherry fruit plus hints of dried roses, herbs, vanilla and subtle baking spices. It combines rich fruit with a rustic, earthy/iron aspect that defines great Sangiovese.  Totally satisfying with layers of flavor, a rich texture, and a long finish, it can age well for another 20 years.