1998 Castello di Argiano Brunello di Montalcino
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Tasting notes
The 1998 Brunello di Montalcino is a deep ruby with shades of violet throughout. This is dark and intense yet also minty fresh, with black currants and dusty florals. Here I’m finding opulent, plush textures, motivated by a burst of bright acids and citrus tones, as tart wild berries cascade across the palate. While only lightly structured today, the 1998 is in its peak drinking window, tapering off a bit shorter than anticipated, hints of licorice and hard red candies lingering.
Critic scores
Jancis Robinson MW
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Mid-crimson without great intensity. Light impact, light tannins. Relatively simple with no great concentration. For a Brunello this is awfully approachable. (JR)
Good bright, deep red. Dried fruits, underbrush, leather and a hint of old wood on the nose. Currant and earth flavors begin with sweetness and intensity but finish tart and a bit hard-edged. The impression of less-than-perfect cooperage carries through in the mouth and on the drying finish. A rather disjointed wine that doesn't really come alive. Two samples were virtually identical.