2018 Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Ripe al Convento Riserva Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany

The Frescobaldi 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Ripe al Convento di CastelGiocondo is more evolved with even more oak intensity next to the village bottling. This Riserva feels older than it really is, and this impression is underlined by the evident 15% alcohol content. The bouquet opens to dried rose, autumnal leaf and trail mix fruit or raisin. The tannins are chalky and grippy.

91 points Monica Larner robertparker.com Dec 2023 Drink 2024-2035

A juicy and open Brunello with ripe fruit and soft tannins. Medium-bodied and slightly fluid on the center palate. Firm at the end. Drink now.

92 points jamessuckling.com

Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Ripe al Convento Riserva Brunello di Montalcino from Tuscany is a distinguished wine that represents the pinnacle of quality in the Brunello di Montalcino category. Sourced from the renowned CastelGiocondo estate, which has been part of the Frescobaldi family for generations, this Riserva captures the essence of Montalcino’s unique terroir. The vineyard is known for its ideal location on the southern slopes of Montalcino, where the soils and climate provide the perfect conditions for growing Sangiovese, the grape that defines Brunello.

The Ripe al Convento Riserva is crafted from the best fruit from this exceptional estate, with the name "Ripe al Convento" referring to a historic vineyard within the estate that has consistently produced top-quality grapes. The wine undergoes careful fermentation and aging, spending time in large oak casks, which allows it to develop a rich, layered complexity while maintaining the freshness and purity of the fruit. The Riserva designation indicates a longer aging period, which contributes to the wine’s depth and aging potential.

This Brunello presents a deep, ruby-red color, a sign of its intensity and richness. On the nose, it is aromatic and complex, with layers of ripe dark fruit—blackberry, plum, and black cherry—complemented by earthy notes of leather, tobacco, and a touch of spice. The oak aging brings additional nuances of vanilla, toasted almonds, and a hint of warm baking spices, which add to the wine’s complexity.

On the palate, Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Ripe al Convento Riserva is full-bodied with a powerful yet elegant structure. The tannins are firm and well-integrated, providing both backbone and grace. The fruit is rich and concentrated, with deep flavors of dark cherry, blackberry, and plum, while savory notes of tobacco and dried herbs enhance the depth of the wine. The finish is long and persistent, with a harmonious balance of fruit, spice, and earthiness, promising excellent aging potential.

This Brunello is an exceptional wine to pair with rich, flavorful dishes. It’s perfect with roasted meats, such as lamb, beef, or game, as well as hearty pasta dishes like pappardelle with wild boar ragù or a rich risotto. It also pairs wonderfully with aged cheeses like Pecorino or Parmigiano-Reggiano. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for years, this Brunello offers a refined and complex wine experience.