2018 Gianni Brunelli Le Chiuse di Sotto Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany

The nose starts sanguine and savory, with notes of tar and soil, then turns lighter and fresher with aromas of blood orange, cranberries, cherries and roses. The palate is cherry-forward, with a sunny citrus warmth, but a gust of mint provides freshness and balance, while acid sizzles around structured, stoic tannins like flames lapping at the slats of a grill.

96 points wineenthusiast.com

Gianni Brunelli Le Chiuse di Sotto Brunello di Montalcino DOCG from Tuscany is a premium expression of one of Italy’s most revered wines. Situated in the heart of the renowned Brunello di Montalcino region, the vineyard of Le Chiuse di Sotto is known for its high-altitude location, which allows for the slow ripening of Sangiovese grapes. This results in wines of exceptional complexity, balance, and aging potential. The Gianni Brunelli estate, with its commitment to producing wines of great quality and elegance, has crafted a Brunello that truly reflects the region's unique terroir and rich winemaking history.

The wine is made entirely from Sangiovese grapes, the variety that defines Brunello di Montalcino. The vineyard’s terroir—comprising soils rich in clay, limestone, and gravel—contributes to the wine’s structure, complexity, and ability to age gracefully. Gianni Brunelli’s winemaking process emphasizes traditional methods, with fermentation in small vats and aging in large Slavonian oak barrels to preserve the wine’s purity and balance while imparting subtle oak influence.

This Brunello has a deep, garnet color, a visual indication of its richness and depth. On the nose, it’s a complex bouquet of dark fruits such as black cherry, plum, and blackberry, along with earthy notes of leather, tobacco, and a hint of underbrush, which reflect the wine’s Tuscan terroir. There’s also a subtle layer of spice from the oak aging, with hints of vanilla and cinnamon adding to the wine’s aromatic profile.

On the palate, Le Chiuse di Sotto Brunello di Montalcino is full-bodied, with fine, well-structured tannins and a lively acidity that provides balance and freshness. The dark fruit flavors are intense and concentrated, with black cherry, plum, and hints of dried fruit. The wine’s acidity provides lift, while the oak aging contributes depth, with flavors of vanilla, toasted nuts, and spice. The finish is long and persistent, with layers of fruit, spice, and earthy minerality that evolve beautifully as the wine opens up. It has the structure and elegance to age for years, developing even more complexity over time.

Gianni Brunelli Le Chiuse di Sotto Brunello di Montalcino DOCG is a wine that pairs wonderfully with hearty Tuscan dishes. It’s an ideal match for roasted meats, such as lamb, beef, or game, as well as rich pasta dishes like pappardelle with wild boar ragù or risotto with truffles. It also pairs beautifully with aged cheeses like Pecorino or Parmigiano-Reggiano, making it a perfect wine for a sophisticated dinner or special occasion.