Biondi Santi Greppo Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1999 / 2012 (RP:97; JS:96; WE:100)

The Riserva is produced from Greppo's Sangiovese vineyards of over 25 years of age and is made only in exceptionally good years. The 'Riserva' is aged 36 months in Slavonian oak casks. The basic characteristic of the Brunello of Greppo Biondi Santi is its longevity, even over a hundred years.
To allow the flavour to fully unfold, the bottle should be opened and a bit of wine poured out at least 8 hours before drinking.

Dedicato a Franco Biondi Santi.

Vintage 2012:
You will notice the dedication printed below the label of the wine label. It reads: "Dedicato a Franco Biondi Santi." Indeed, the Biondi-Santi 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is the last vintage made by the towering father figure of Brunello whom most everyone referred to as the "gentleman of Montalcino." Il Dottore, as he was also respectfully addressed, died at age 91 in April 2013, and he was very active in the winery as this magnificent wine took shape. This Riserva is a true work of beauty. It is released one year later than usual.

Denomination:
Montalcino DOCG, Italy

Country of Origin:
Italy

Type:
Red/Rouge (Still)

Grape Variety:
Sangiovese grosso 100%

Vinification:
in red, controlled temperature

Ageing:
3 years in Slavonian oak casks. Refining in bottle for at least six months.

Tasting Notes:
(1999)
Intense, brillant ruby red, with nuances of vanilla and withered rose, clear scents of eucalyptus, tanned leather and wilted violet. Even the acidity, which in such a young wine is usually quite invasive if not tart, is in balance with a significant critical mass. Taste is harmonic, savoury, persistent, good structure, balance between tannins and acidity. Ageing potential is 80 years.

(2012)
The wine reflects the natural heft and power of the 2012 vintage, and it also shows that distinctive open-knit and accessible personality that characterizes this warm and sunny growing season. Il Dottore's magic touch is revealed in the level of fine detail and precision that transcends vintage, grape and territory. That extreme focus is an achievement of this estate alone located in the celebrated Il Greppo property. This Brunello pours from the bottle with a magnificent garnet color, and it evolves in the glass with dark fruit, candied orange peel, spice, licorice, anise seed, cola and balsam herb. The aromas are magical and ethereal, albeit slightly ripe and soft as expected of this vintage.