2020 Talenti Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany

The Talenti 2020 Brunello di Montalcino (with 21,000 bottles made) shows a savory side with cigar smoke and cured leather that cede to dark fruit and baked blackberry. There is a hint of earthy minerality that adds focus and sharpness to the wine's medium-bodied finish. The 2020 vintage is a bit leaner on the mid-palate.

92 points robertparker.com

Talenti Brunello di Montalcino is a refined, beautifully composed expression of Sangiovese Grosso from the sun-drenched southern slopes of Montalcino near Sant’Angelo in Colle. Founded in the late 1980s by Pierluigi Talenti—an innovator and one of the region’s quiet revolutionaries—the estate today is run by his grandson Riccardo Talenti, who has earned widespread respect for his thoughtful approach that marries traditional craftsmanship with modern precision.

The fruit for this Brunello comes from estate vineyards sitting at 400 to 450 metres altitude, planted on marl and limestone-rich soils that give structure, minerality and lift. The warm southern climate ensures optimal ripeness, while altitude and cooling breezes from Mount Amiata and the nearby sea preserve aromatic freshness and acidity.

Grapes are hand-harvested and fermented in stainless steel using indigenous yeasts, with a long maceration to build complexity. Maturation takes place in a combination of large Slavonian oak botti and a smaller portion in French tonneaux for about 30 months, followed by extended bottle ageing before release.

In the glass, this Brunello is classic and expressive. Aromas of ripe cherry, blood orange, rose petal and cedar rise from the glass, followed by earthy spice, dried herbs and a subtle hint of mocha. The palate is structured yet composed, showing generous fruit alongside savoury elements of leather, underbrush and mineral tension. Silky tannins and vibrant acidity lead to a long, balanced finish that speaks clearly of its terroir.

Perfect with wild mushroom risotto, grilled T-bone steak, or slow-cooked lamb with rosemary and garlic. It drinks beautifully now with a good decant and will age gracefully over the next 12 to 15 years.