Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2017, Tuscany, Italy

“CastelGiocondo’s unique location in Montalcino, with its varied exposure and terrain – galestro, clay and Pleocene sands -offers infinite nuances to this Brunello. A multi-faceted experience that evolves over time and entices us to discover, taste and remember, again and again.” Lamberto Frescobaldi. Winter in 2017 was rather mild, with slightly above-average temperatures. Summer and spring saw high temperatures and low rainfall. The combination of the clay-rich soils and particularly dry growing season resulted in decent growth and excellent subsequent ripening. When the grapes were harvested, they were healthy, intact and well concentrated. The abundant light and heat in 2017 gave the CastelGiocondo wines extraordinary strength and richness. The Sangiovese grapes were picked by hand and carefully selected after arriving at the cellar. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature with frequent pump-overs, particularly during the early stages. The wine was then aged in wood containers, where it was able to mature and develop balance. 5 years after the grapes were picked, and only after another period spent ageing in the bottle, CastelGiocondo Brunello is ready to be placed on the market. CastelGiocondo 2017 has an intense, bright ruby-red color. The bouquet features fruity aromas, particularly at the beginning, with notes of raspberry, blackcurrant and even pomegranate. Gradually, its maturity becomes truly remarkable, revealing spiced hints of white pepper, clove and star anise, toasted notes and more complex roasted notes and hints of liquorice. On the palate, the tannic structure is dense and the mineral quality is wonderful. This is an incredibly harmonious wine with along, persistent finish.