2016 Le Macchiole Brunello di Montalcino

The 2016 Brunello opens with pristine ripe cherry, sunbaked Mediterranean herbs, and dried roses. The palate has crunchy, fresh red plum, black tea, and delicate amaro bitterness. There are fine tannins and a sunny warmth to the structure. Drink 2021-2030

Tasted as un unfinished release, the Le Macioche 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Cotarella shows poise and character, opening to bright cherry fruit, menthol or balsamic herb, mineral and soft earthy tones. Next year's release, the 2017 vintage, will represent the first wine entirely made by the Cotarella family since they purchased this little bijou estate in Montalcino. The 2015 vintage was bottled by them, but winemaking was followed by the previous owners, and the 2014 vintage was not made at all. Aged in large oak casks this is a classic expression, streamlined in places and more generous in others, making for balanced overall results. Production is 13,785 bottles.

The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino from Le Macioche impresses with its wonderfully pure and lifted personality. Fresh mint and sage set the stage for a display of bright cherry with a dusting of sweet spice. It’s feminine and remarkably pretty, showing mineral-laced red fruits with salty minerals and inner florals amassing toward the close. The tannins here are round and nuanced, creating a classically dry display but not tiring or severe in any way. In fact, the symmetry is spellbinding. While the 2016 won’t require years of cellaring to show its best, I expect it will enjoy a long and open drinking window.