2018 Donatella Cinelli Colombini Brunello di Montalcino
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The Donatella Cinelli Colombini 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Late Vintage Release is part of a new program to resubmit older vintages to the market. I will note that there was no mention of "late release" on my sample label. However, 3,000 numbered bottles were put aside at the winery so that consumers can check on their aging progression. Organic fruit is sourced from over 10 hectares of vineyard in the Il Casato area in the northern part of the appellation. The site has medium-rich clay soils. The wine is defined by an herbal signature that recalls eucalyptus, rosemary oil and a sweet hint of sage. The bouquet is medicinal and quite vertical in intensity, and that power is given more lift thanks to a 15% alcohol content. It is drinking beautifully right now and shows resolved, open-knit tannins. I would bet on at least 10 more years.
Critic scores
Average Score
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Maturing and very dark ruby with brickstone rim. Alluring nose of oak, cigar box and ripe cherry fruit, and already showing some evolution. Long, suave and deep, tangy cherry fruit with a layer of powdery tannins. Very long and supple and can already be approached. (WS)
A certified organic wine, the Donatella Cinelli Colombini 2018 Brunello di Montalcino (with 34,000 bottles made) leans toward a slightly more robust personality with lasting texture and flavor concentration. The vintage remains open-knit and largely accessible, thanks in part to its velvety mouthfeel and dried fruit nuances. You get lots of dried cherry and blackcurrant with grilled herb and crushed rose. There is a pleasant tannic firmness to give the wine more volume, and the acidity also plays a big role in underlining the wine's length.
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino dazzles with a perfumed bouquet that mixes candied cherries with crushed violets and spiced orange peels. It’s soft-textured and generous on the palate with potent red berry fruits that saturate, complemented by nuances of clove and tobacco. The 2018 leaves a gentle coating of tannins while finishing with impressive length and staying power for the vintage, leaving hints of licorice and plum to slowly taper off. This is a total pleasure to taste.