Brunello di Montalcino 2019: 30 picks from a 5-star vintage
Decanter|April 2024
It's a vintage to bring cheer to Tuscany lovers' hearts, and the first of what is being billed as a strong run of three to come. The successful 2019 Brunello wines offer richness, balance and immediate appeal while also managing to avoid excess
MICHAELA MORRIS
Brunello di Montalcino 2019: 30 picks from a 5-star vintage

Michaela’s best-value picks

1 Canalicchio di Sopra 2019 95 £110-£125 (ib, magnum) Goedhuis Waddesdon, Mann Fine Wine, WoodWinters 
US$114-$140 Art of Wine, Convive, DVNO Wine, 
Eataly Vino, Hi-Time, Manhattan Wine Co, The Wine 
House, Wines of Kings

Canalicchio di Sopra’s impressive trio of 2019 releases (a highly promising Riserva is also waiting in the wings) kick off with the estate Brunello, assembled from vines that are at least a decade old. It’s a model of freshness and energy, backed by substance and staying power. Aromas of mint, lavender and tobacco lead to a radiant core of warm stone and redcurrants. The tannins are direct and linear, giving a firm grip to the dense fruit. Bitter citrus to finish. Drink 2025-2037 Alcohol 15%

2 Col d’Orcia 2019 94 £37.50-£46.50 (ib) Cru, Ideal Wine Co Quite a departure for this estate, the 2019 is immediately inviting and expressive, seducing with dulcet tones of red rose, cherry and sweet thyme. The palate unfolds fluidly with layers of luscious red plum and pomegranate. Hibiscus, rose water and orange are tucked in every crevasse. A brilliant demonstration of Sangiovese’s tasty succulence. Deceptively gentle to begin, fine sandy tannins build to an ageworthy crescendo. Drink 2024-2037 Alc 14.5% 

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