2003 Brunello di Montalcino
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Tasting notes
‘A year characterised by a lack of water, very dry and very hot, a little like we are experiencing now in 2022. This led to very small, concentrated berries especially on the stony soils and a very early harvest, between 5 and 7 September. It was the first year when we jumped from winter immediately to summer, while the vines were still very young [and still without very deep roots]. Lionel and I thought this wine was dying and for eight years we were saying: “this wine now has reached its peak”.’ Dark, developing ruby with a very narrow orange rim. A captivating, concentrated nose. A little rich but not sweet. Still compact and with the hallmark perfumed cherry. Perhaps a little more on the dark-fruit side, and laced with oak. Great intensity. Hints of spice. Lashings of suave, deep fruit with layers and layers of chewy tannins and plenty of acidity. Firm structure but has lots of everything as well as amazing balance. Seems to defy the vintage. If you come across this Cupano vintage for a good price, you simply must buy it. (WS)
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Round and supple now, it should appeal to those who appreciate a New World style that still maintains traditional Brunello personality. Its warm black cherry, sarsaparilla and fresh herb flavours are swathed in deft oak, brisk acidity and firm tannins. Long finish. Delicious now. (LM)
The velvety-textured 2003 Brunello di Montalcino is endowed with perfumed aromatics and a soft, expansive core of dark cherries, leather, tobacco and sweet toasted oak that are beautifully balanced by the wine's firm tannins. This attractive, open Brunello is already showing the early signs of development, making a great choice for nearer-term consumption.
The velvety-textured 2003 Brunello di Montalcino is endowed with perfumed aromatics and a soft, expansive core of dark cherries, leather, tobacco and sweet toasted oak that are beautifully balanced by the wine’s firm tannins. This attractive, open Brunello is already showing the early signs of development, making a great choice for nearer-term consumption. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2016. Cupano is a young estate, yet the wines I have tasted so far have all been quite promising. Importer: Fairest Cape Beverage, Santa Ana, CA; tel. (949) 724-0320