2019 Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany

The Frescobaldi 2019 Brunello di Montalcino CastelGiocondo has oaky notes, dried spice, redwood and cured tobacco. At its core, the wine shows dark fruit and a thick level of extraction. The tannins are soft and resolved, setting this Brunello up for an immediate drinking window. The wine is exactly where you want it to be, especially if served across from a steak and baked potato. This is a big release of 450,000 bottles.

93 Points, Monica Larner, robertparker.com, Dec 2023, Drink 2024-2039

Black cherries, black bark, blackberries and lavender. Medium- to full-bodied with juicy and polished tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Needs four or five years to open and come together. Best after 2027.

95 Points, James Suckling

This substantial red is as savory as it is fruity, boasting cherry, plum, leather, wild thyme, woodsy underbrush, iron and tobacco notes. Burly, with dusty tannins guarding the lingering finish. Best from 2027 through 2043. 

93 points Bruce Sanderson winespectator.com

Nestled in the rolling hills of Montalcino, the CastelGiocondo estate benefits from an ideal terroir, where a combination of high-altitude vineyards, well-drained galestro soils, and a warm Mediterranean climate allows Sangiovese to reach its full potential. With a winemaking heritage that dates back over 700 years, the Frescobaldi family is dedicated to producing Brunello di Montalcino that embodies elegance, structure, and longevity.

On the palate, Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino reveals a complex and refined profile with rich flavors of dark cherry, ripe plum, and dried fig, intertwined with hints of leather, tobacco, and aromatic herbs. Subtle notes of spice, including clove, cinnamon, and a touch of espresso, emerge from careful aging in oak barrels, adding depth and sophistication. The wine’s firm yet velvety tannins provide a beautifully balanced structure, complemented by a vibrant acidity that enhances its freshness and aging potential. Aromatically, layers of violets, dried roses, and earthy undertones contribute to an alluring bouquet that evolves beautifully in the glass, leading to a long and graceful finish with lingering notes of dark fruit and spice.

Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino is an excellent choice for pairing with hearty Tuscan cuisine. It pairs perfectly with braised meats, wild boar ragu, and aged Pecorino cheese. The wine’s structure and depth also complement roasted lamb, truffle-infused risottos, and rich pasta dishes featuring tomato-based sauces. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for further development, this Brunello di Montalcino offers an exceptional drinking experience that speaks to the heritage and craftsmanship of the Frescobaldi estate.