Sangiovese
75cl * 14.5% ABV * Brunello di Montalcino, Italy
Angelo Gaja is largely responsible for the renaissance in Piedmontese viticulture and his wines have become highly sought after the world over. The property's entire 40 acres are dedicated to Sangiovese, perhaps the most well-known of the indigenous Italian grape varieties. The grapes from the different vineyards are fermented and macerated separately for three weeks. They are then aged in oak for 24 months before being blended and then aged for another six months in concrete vats.
The boldest expression of Sangiovese from an outstanding vintage, this 2016 Brunello shows notes of juniper berries, liquorice and sweet wood on the nose. On the palate there's ripe fruit, with notes of spice and earthy aromatic herbs. This wine has remarkable texture, mouth-filling fruit and a very good length with well-integrated tannins and mineral freshness. It's really rather stunning and the perfect pair for grilled and roasted red meat, posh pizza and mature cheeses.