The vast range of Brunello I tasted at Benvenuto Brunello, the annual event in Montalcino at which the Brunello producers show their soon-to-be-released new vintage, convinced me that 2010 is one the truly great vintages for that DOCG. In my view, Brunello lovers cannot have too many 2010s in their cellars. And the vintage provides a perfect opportunity for newcomers to see for themselves why Brunello di Montalcino is one of Italy’s grandest wines. Sesti, a consistently top Brunello producer, made a sensational one in 2010. It combines the unique Sangiovese-based dark cherry-like fruitiness with a tightly woven mineraly core. The plethora and depth of flavors pushes the tannins, which are pretty plush, into the background. The suave texture is magical for such a young powerful wine. And all this without sacrificing freshness and vivacity. A gorgeous wine.
Sesti, Brunello di Montalcino (Tuscany, Italy) 2010
By Michael Apstein