Casanuova delle Cerbaie has been a mainstay at SommSelect since our inception. This traditional producer’s Brunello needs some bottle age to show its true worth. Here you go! We scored the 2016 with four years of maturation at the winery plus another nearly five years of bottle age.
Decade-old Sangiovese came from the legendary “Montosoli'' vineyard, which Forbes Magazine agrees is Brunello’s “Grand Cru.” It has now reached its evolution where it has truly taken on new dimensions. The aromas have grown more complex, the texture more refined and voluptuous, and the flavors more rustic and earthy.
Other noted “Montosoli” bottlings like Altesino 2016 will put you back north of $100 a bottle. Factor this in with its sky-high quality and optimum drinking window and you have one savvy pickup!
Within 30 minutes of decanting, this Sangiovese sings on another level with brandied cherries, roasted red plums, and raspberry liqueur. Hints of underbrush, leather, licorice, wild mushrooms, and dried thyme can be detected on the mid-palate. The package is nicely wrapped with dusty, soft-framed tannins and fresh acidity that adds lift to the finish. Harmonious now with the ability to be tucked away for another 3-5 years. Molte Grazie!
95 Points, James Suckling:
“ … perfumed nose of cloves, lavender and chocolate-coated raspberries and plums. Some macadamia nut and praline. This has a full body and sleek, well knit tannins. There is elegance from layers of praline and dried raspberries... ”
94 Points, Vinous Media:
“Ashen earth and smoke give way to black cherries, incense and exotic spices as the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino blossoms in the glass. This floods the palate with rich, velvety textures and a dense display of mineral-tinged dark fruits, all offset by a stunning mix of vibrant acidity and sour citrus tones. Its tannic structure comes forward only through the finale, reminding you that this elegant beauty is still a painfully young Brunello. The 2016 is packed full of potential and really shows just how much Casanuova delle Cerbaie has upped their game over the last few vintages.”
