Brunello di Montalcino 2016: What the Critics are Saying

The 2016 vintage of Brunello di Montalcino is widely celebrated as one of the finest in recent memory, earning high praise from top critics such as James Suckling, Wine Advocate, and Vinous. This vintage stands out for its exceptional balance, structure, and ageing potential. In this report, we delve into the unique characteristics of the 2016 growing season, highlight the critical acclaim, and spotlight some of the top-scoring wineries that have crafted standout wines in this remarkable year.

 

Climate and Growing Conditions

The 2016 growing season in Montalcino was nearly perfect, marked by favourable weather conditions that allowed the Sangiovese grapes to develop beautifully. The season began with a mild winter and a wet spring, providing ample water reserves for the vineyards. The summer was warm but not excessively hot, with cool nights that helped maintain acidity and freshness in the grapes. These ideal conditions resulted in a long, even ripening period, leading to wines with great depth, complexity, and balance.

 

What the critics said:

James Suckling has described the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino as "a benchmark vintage," praising its elegance, structure, and longevity. He noted that the wines from this year exhibit "purity of fruit, fine tannins, and vibrant acidity," making them some of the best Brunellos he has ever tasted.

Wine Advocate's Monica Larner echoed this sentiment, highlighting the "incredible balance and harmony" of the 2016 vintage. She emphasized the wines' potential for aging, noting that they possess "a fantastic sense of energy and vibrancy" that will allow them to develop beautifully over the coming decades.

Vinous critic Antonio Galloni also offered high praise, describing the 2016 Brunellos as "profound, powerful, and beautifully layered." He pointed out that the vintage combines the best elements of a classic Brunello with a modern edge, resulting in wines that are both accessible and age-worthy.

 

Top-Scoring Wineries

Several wineries have excelled in the 2016 vintage, producing wines that have garnered top scores and critical acclaim. Here are some of the standout producers:

Biondi Santi

Biondi Santi's 2016 Brunello di Montalcino has been hailed as a "masterpiece" by James Suckling, who awarded it a score of 100 points. The wine is noted for its incredible depth, complexity, and balance, with layers of red cherry, tobacco, and spice. Monica Larner from Wine Advocate also praised the wine, highlighting its "elegant structure and long aging potential."

Casanova di Neri

Casanova di Neri's Tenuta Nuova 2016 has received widespread acclaim, with a score of 100 points from James Suckling. He described it as "a Brunello with soul and depth," praising its rich fruit, fine tannins, and long finish. Vinous' Antonio Galloni also commended the wine, noting its "impressive concentration and precision."

Il Poggione

Il Poggione's 2016 Brunello di Montalcino has been celebrated for its balance and complexity. James Suckling awarded it 98 points, highlighting its "beautiful purity and finesse." Monica Larner from Wine Advocate described it as "a classic Brunello with great aging potential," emphasizing its vibrant acidity and refined tannins.

Poggio di Sotto

Poggio di Sotto's 2016 Brunello di Montalcino has earned high praise from critics, including a score of 98 points from James Suckling. He noted its "incredible depth and complexity," with flavors of red fruit, herbs, and earth. Antonio Galloni from Vinous described it as "one of the standout wines of the vintage," praising its elegance and balance.

 

The Future of the 2016 Vintage

The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino wines are expected to have a long and illustrious future. The combination of ideal growing conditions, meticulous winemaking, and critical acclaim has positioned these wines as must-haves for collectors and enthusiasts. With their exceptional balance, structure, and aging potential, the 2016 Brunellos promise to develop beautifully over the next several decades, offering a unique opportunity to experience the evolution of these remarkable wines.

 

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