Casanuova delle Cerbaie, Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy

The 2016 Casanuova delle Cerbaie Brunello di Montalcino is a true expression of Tuscany's legendary Sangiovese grosso grape. This vintage hails from the northern sector of Montalcino, where the unique terroir and careful winemaking process come together to create a wine of immense elegance and depth. With roots deeply embedded in the Eocene-period soils, rich in limestone, marl, and clay, this wine represents a beautiful convergence of tradition and innovation, showcasing the potential of Montalcino’s esteemed vineyards.

Product Details:

• Grape Variety: 100% Sangiovese grosso
• Soil Composition: Mixed clay, galestro, calcareous rocks, rich in skeleton
• Altitude: 250-350 meters above sea level
• Plant Density: 5,000 vines per hectare
• Vine Training System: One-sided spurred cordon
• Harvest: Manual, with meticulous sorting to ensure only the finest grapes make it to fermentation
• Vinification: Fermentation in stainless steel tanks with intense extraction and quiescent maceration on the pomace, carefully controlled at a maximum temperature of 29°C (84.2°F)
• Aging: At least 24 months in large Slavonian oak barrels by Franz Stockinger, followed by 4 months of bottle aging
• Production: Approximately 2,500 cases produced annually

Sensory Description:
On the nose, this Brunello offers an enveloping bouquet that blends the vibrancy of red fruits like cherry and plum with the deeper notes of black cherry. A slight touch of spiciness and balsamic undertones adds complexity, while the aromas of licorice and fresh aromatic herbs bring a delicate refinement. On the palate, the wine is remarkably elegant and soft, showcasing its exceptional freshness. The balanced acidity provides a lift, carrying the flavors across the palate toward a long, pleasing finish that leaves a lingering impression of both fruit and spice.

Winemaker's Background:
Casanuova delle Cerbaie began its journey in the early 1980s under the care of a German visionary with a passion for Italian wines. The estate, meticulously restored and revitalized, quickly made its mark on the global wine scene. By 1998, its Brunello di Montalcino was ranked among Wine Spectator’s top 100 wines in the world. The estate saw a new era of growth in 2008, when a dedicated wine enthusiast took ownership, bringing in the expertise of Alessandro Brigidi and the famed winemaker Giuseppe Gorelli. The collaboration has since elevated the winery’s offerings, with a focus on producing world-class Brunellos that reflect the true character of their terroir.

Serving Suggestions:
To fully appreciate the elegance of this Brunello, it is recommended to open the bottle at least an hour before serving. Best enjoyed at 64.4°F (18°C) in a large crystal glass, this wine pairs beautifully with rich Tuscan dishes, such as wild boar ragu, aged pecorino cheese, or a hearty steak. For those who prefer to savor it on its own, its layered complexity makes it a wonderful wine for thoughtful, unhurried enjoyment.