Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Piaggione 2013

Ruby red and transparent with a black core.

Opulent with a bulging belly-load of aromas, the 2011 Brunello di Montalcino from Podere Salicutti is an almost lavish paradise with a cathedral nose of black cherries mingling with blueberries, bramble jelly and toasted almonds. Flanked by balsamic notes of bay leaf and vetiver, it is spicy, reminiscent of light Virginia tobacco, white pepper, orange peel and kumquats. In constant flux, the wine benefits from timely decanting unless allowed to age in the cellar for the next 5-12 years.  

On the palate, after the rich entry, it is also opulent with a viscous mouthfeel and voluminous appearance. At the same time, it has a defined yet sinewy stature, benevolent and generous like a fat Mafia godfather with golden rings. With velvety texture and extract-sweet fruit, it flows down the tippler's gullet at the speed of light, the tannins polished and contouring, the acidity subtly interwoven with the dense body. The wine radiates an enormous calm without having to play with muscles unnecessarily. A Zen Buddhist among the Brunelli, an equilibrium of stillness, balance and power with epic length and noble reverberation.