Brunello di Montalcino, Casanova di Neri 2012

Casanova di Neri is one of the shining stars of Montalcino. Each successive vintage released brings us renewed understanding of the focus and the dedication demonstrated by the father and son team that operates this estate. The winemaking style is impeccable and elaborate. There's a higher degree of texture and richness on display, and this is not often the case with Sangiovese. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino opens to thick layers of dark fruit, mocha, spice, leather, cigar box and pipe tobacco. A distant note of dried fruit or blackberry confit adds softness and sweetness. Give this wine a few more years to flesh out and integrate.

A wine with balance and finesse as well as a solid core of fruit that leads to a long and silky finish. Just the right combination of subtle ripe fruit and balsamic-vinegar undertones. So pretty. Drink or hold.