2018 Mate Brunello di Montalcino

The certified organic Máté 2018 Brunello di Montalcino reveals dark layers of black cherry and plum with soft spice, leather and tilled earth. The wine also shows a delicate side with lavender and Mediterranean herb. It feels tart and fresh on the palate, and it offers an accessible, medium-weight texture. There is a hint of cooling mint on the close. Albeit informal, this is a fun and lively Brunello with exactly 12,965 bottles released.

A smoky mix of crushed strawberry and cherry is accentuated by minty herbs as the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino blossoms in the glass. It splashes across the palate with ripe wild berry fruits and hints of tropical citrus motivated by vibrant acidity. The 2018 tapers off with an exotic flourish of spices and florals, as subtle tannins frame this Brunello quite well. While lightly structured, this highly expressive interpretation of the vintage is already quite tempting, yet still in need of a few years of cellaring.

Deep ruby with orange tinges. Brooding and conveying a sense of richness, but otherwise still closed on the nose. Just a suggestion of Moroccan leather. Sappy, lively and tangy fruit on the palate with an undertow of oak. Long, mouth-filling, juicy and hedonistic. Can be approached now. (WS)