2016 Valdicava Vigna Montosoli Brunello di Montalcino MAGNUM

(97 Points) Here in its second vintage, the Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Montosoli is taking no prisoners. It wafts up with a beguiling and sultry display, with savory cherry sauce and sage giving way to spiced citrus peels, smoky minerals, animal musk and black olive tapenade. Youthfully dense and velvety upon entry, it offers masses of dark red and black fruits, contrasting almost salty nuances with a dark chocolate bitterness that creates tension and complexity. The 2016 builds like a crescendo, gaining in intensity and verve, right up until the moment that its gritty tannins take firm hold of the palate and refuse to let go. Still, echoes of licorice, blackberry and cooling herbal tones linger. It closes up rather quickly in the glass today, becoming monolithic and austere, yet the gorgeous snapshot received over the first ten minutes after opening it delivered a wonderful preview. I can’t wait to see what future vintages hold for the Vigna Montosoli, as it is one of the best young wines I’ve ever tasted from Valdicava. (EG) Vinous Review Date: 11/2020