2009 Brunello di Montalcino Castelgiocondo
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Tasting notes
Ripe, juicy and explosive on the palate, the 2009 captures many of the best qualities of the year. Sweet red cherries, flowers, spices and tobacco burst from the glass. All the elements are in gorgeous balance in a soft, supple Brunello with tons of near and medium-term appeal. This is a strong showing from Frescobaldi.
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Average Score
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta di Castelgiocondo opens to good color and concentration with aromas of prune and black fruit. The wine also presents evolved tones of dried tobacco and bresaola that make it feel slightly older than it really is. The expert use of wood (the wine ages in barrel for 36 months) is of special note: It has successfully added much of the tannic structure and intensity that generally lacks in 2009 Brunello. Drink: 2017-2022. Frescobaldi’s stunning Tenuta di Castelgiocondo is one of the most beautiful estates in Montalcino. A romantically aged stone castle occupies a panoramic position on the crest of a hill and vineyards spill downwards, cut sharply from thick oak forests and shrubs, toward the endless expanse of Maremma and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Although the house style had veered toward more nuanced and elegant expressions in recent years, the 2009 Brunello takes us back to the signature opulence and power that cemented the winery’s reputation in international markets years ago. Importer: Folio Fine Wine Partners, www.foliowine.com
Deep ruby with narrow orange rim. Just a tiny bit stewed and veering towards browning apple. Lots of oak on the finish. (WS)