2011 Mastrojanni Brunello di Montalcino
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Tasting notes
Mastrojanni is on a roll. This extraordinary estate has been enjoying the spotlight lately and very much deserves the attention. I'm adding my name to a long list of their fans. The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino is a classic expression of Sangiovese with soft lines and enduring flavors. You do feel some of the vintage heat, but the ripeness is contained thanks to the delicate and nuanced nature of its fruit. It also shows enormous grace in the mouth. The wine is silky and svelte with long, polished tannins. Mastrojanni's wines are linked by a common characteristic that is easy to identify in most vintages. That common denominator is excellent oak management.
Critic scores
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
A big, powerful wine, the 2011 Brunello di Montalcino wraps around the palate with sweet tobacco, dried cherry, cedar, spice and leather. The warmth of the vintage comes through in the wine's roasted profile, potent personality and forward flavors. This is the most that was possible in what was a very challenging vintage on the southern side of Montalcino.
Tasted blind. Mid ruby with orange tinges. Cherry and black tea leaves on the nose and bags of concentration and extract on the palate with a rich fruit finish. Good acidity, but clearly from a hot year. (WS)
Juicy strawberry and milk chocolate on the palate, finishing with firm but fair tannic grip. Also has a very slightly bretty note – not for the fastidious. (RH)