2012 Il Marroneto Brunello di Montalcino Madonna Delle Grazie
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Tasting notes
Masses of spiced cherry, strawberry, cedar shavings, hints of underbrush, smoke and dusty library book make the 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Madonna delle Grazie an aromatic thrill ride. Its color is vibrant, yet dark, far more so than the house Brunello placed next to it. It has a balanced inner sweetness and delicate feel, yet with potent red berries, along with notions of plum, tobacco and savory spice that cascade across the palate. Still structured yet potent and long, the 2012 has far more to say; yet only time will unlock those secrets, as it tapers off spicy with a hint of minty herbs that lingers.
Critic scores
Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Alessandro Mori is the Sangiovese whisperer: l'uomo che sussurrava il Sangiovese. I need to say it in Italian, too, because it sounds so beautiful. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Madonna Delle Grazie is a phenomenal wine that speaks so highly of the potential of the mighty Tuscan grape, Sangiovese. This wine mirrors all the greatest attributes of the 100-point 2010 edition. Most significantly, it delivers profound purity and a most authentic varietal voice that sings both the high notes and the bass-baritone. First you have the wine's dark ruby appearance that is brilliant and vibrant but beautifully concentrated. Then you have the multilayered bouquet that skillfully presents ethereal notes of wild berry and grilled herb on first nose. Those lighter tones lift gracefully to reveal substantial aromas of dark fruit, spice, tobacco and white truffle that form the wine's lasting aromatic core. The mouthfeel is feather light in texture, but don't underestimate its power or persistence. This is a true gem of Italian enology and sadly only 6,200 bottles were made.
Tasted blind. Lustrous mid ruby. Shy and brooding. Amazing concentration and very tannic, not unlike a Barolo, but with real transparency and wonderful, cracking acidity. Burgundian and with a beautiful, aromatic spread on the finish. (WS)
Cask sample. Almost bright mid crimson. Amazingly complex yet subtle nose with hints of cherry, cigar box and oatmeal. More depth and concentration on the palate, too, compared with the straight Brunello. Richly tannic and quite demanding for the moment, but the finish displays all fine fruit. (WS)
About the producer
Il Marroneto is one of Montalcino’s most respected producers. Its Madonna delle Grazie is consistently one of the top-scoring Brunello di Montalcinos of any vintage.