Description
In 1987, Gianni Brunelli returned to Montalcino and bought "Le Chiuse di Sotto," an estate previously owned by his father Dino, featuring two hectares of vineyards at 200 meters above sea level in the northern part of Montalcino. Later, he acquired the "Podernovone" estate, which offers a stunning view of Monte Amiata and includes 4.5 hectares of vineyards at 350 meters above sea level, primarily Sangiovese with a small amount of Merlot. The soil at Podernovone consists of calcareous-marly schists, whereas Le Chiuse di Sotto has more clay-based soil. The distinct climates of the two properties (cool and breezy with summer rain at Le Chiuse di Sotto, warmer and more ventilated at Podernovone) contribute to produce complex and elegant wines. After Gianni's passing in 2008, his wife Laura took over, with winemaker Paolo Vagaggini, a renowned Sangiovese expert. Laura personally oversees the vineyards, with guidance from an agronomist friend. The 6.5-hectare property practices organic viticulture, producing classic, age-worthy Brunello wines.
"This wine offers lifted fruit with popping cherry, blackcurrant and sour crab apple. This level of fruit brightness is not easy to maintain in a wine that ages for five years before its commercial release. The folks at Gianni Brunelli Le Chiuse di Sotto do a fine job. The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino delivers balanced oak renderings with exotic spice and dried chili flake. The wine has a beautiful nose, but the palate definitely needs more time to flesh out and relax, considering the current tightness of the tannins. With 14,230 bottles made, it promises a long drinking window." - 97 Points Monica Larner robertparker.com
