2015 San Polo Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG, Tuscany

Brunello di Montalcino Riserva represents the highest possible achievement in terms of quality and excellence, which Allegrini pursues with absolute respect for the environment. Lengthy ageing and judicious use of wood lend further elegance to this wine, which is loved and sought-after by the greatest wine connoisseurs in the world.

Bright ruby red with garnet hues, it opens with aromas of woodland berries such as blackberry, blackcurrant and blueberry, followed by liquorice, spices and intense balsamic notes. The tannins are well-chiselled, and the finish is long and with extraordinary aromatic persistence. This is a wine with great structure and concentration, which is striking on the palate for its intensity, elegance and great balance.

2015 was once again recognised as a year worthy of Riserva production, to complement 2012 and 2010. The Riserva is barrel selection of the finest components of Brunello di Montalcino, worthy of the additional 12 months in oak to be the only Brunello produced from San Polo whose maturation exceeds 24 months in oak.

96 points James Suckling jamessuckling.com