Brunello di Montalcino

Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino Riserva

The Frescobaldi CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino has consistently been one of the most highly acclaimed wines in Italy. 100% Sangiovese, past vintages have received high ratings, including the 2004 vintage rated the 15th Best Wine in the World by Wine Spectator and the 1997 vintage, rated as the 8th Best Wine in the World by Wine Spectator.

2005 CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino Tasting Notes
The color is garnet-edged, luminous, vibrant and deep ruby red in the glass. This wine gives a multi-layered, rich nose that at first offers a broad array of aromas, including wild red berry and darker-fleshed fruit such as dried plum, blackcurrant, and blackberry that is nicely lifted by subtle hints of sweet violets, dogwood blossom, vanilla and other spices. Last to emerge are pungent nuances of roasted espresso bean, cocoa powder, and tobacco leaf. The palate is warm with a velvety mouthfeel set against a lively acidity and tasty, fine-grained tannins that contribute to an exemplary balance. Subtle fruit notes enrich a very long, lingering finish.

Food Pairing Suggestions
With a bit of daring, this could be savored as a vino da meditazione, a sipping wine all on its own. Or certainly in accompaniment to end-of-dinner sweets, such as panforte. And, of course, with beef stews, braised meats with potatoes, cheeses that are aged but not too pungent, and large game, such as boar.

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Ratings & Reviews
2004 Vintage
95 points - Wine Spectator, April 30 2009

2003 Vintage
90 points - Wine Spectator, May 15 2008
89 points - Wine Advocate #176, April 2008

2002 Vintage
87 points - Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, June 2007

2001 Vintage
89 points - Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, July/August 2006
88 points - Wine Advocate, December 2006
94 points - Wine Spectator, April 30, 2006
#27 in Top 100 wines of 2006 - Wine Spectator, April 30, 2006

2000 Vintage
92 points - Wine Spectator, May 31, 2005