Argiano : Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2015

With DNA carefully shaped by Tuscan sunshine and golden light, the 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a textbook expression of the vintage. The wine reveals soft and ripe fruit with dark cherry, candied apricot, cola, medicinal herb and aniseed. There is depth and complexity, followed by a powerful mid-palate and textured tannins. This Riserva represents a special selection of fruit from across the estate's 22 hectares of Brunello. The clay and limestone marl site is located at a breezy 280 to 310 meters above sea level. Production is very small, with just 1,700 bottles made.

Argiano’s Riserva comes from a selected vineyard planted to a single clone, which gives wines with greater structure. It is the only one of the estate’s three Brunellos still aged in small barrels, though the share of new oak has decreased to 50%. This is well integrated, polished and balanced, with lovely soft acidity. The nose is discreet, with warm earth, iron and tea, then opens to mint and tarragon. Sandy tannins cling to the palate, with plenty of grip to bolster the sweet fruit. It just needs a little more focus.

This is very opulent with a beautiful texture. A juicy, full-bodied red with complex aromas of dried cherries and flowers, bark, cloves, toast and mushrooms. It’s full-bodied with great fruit and depth and sleek tannins. Long, refined finish. Drink from 2023.