The 2016 Rosso di Montalcino hails from lower-elevation vineyards, around 250 meters, in the northern section of Montalcino. It’s a classic, layered and dramatic wine, showing bright cherry, sweet herbs, cooling mint, dried fall leaves, tobacco and savory spice, with a presence and depth that feels more like Brunello than Rosso in character. There’s sweetness and purity to the fruit here that keeps me coming back to the glass, yet I’m sure that the 2016 will benefit from a few years of cellaring, especially as its fine tannins build toward the close. The Rosso spends twelve months maturing

I am immediately smitten by the Biondi-Santi 2016 Rosso di Montalcino thanks to the purity of the aromas on display. The bouquet literally submerges the senses in Sangiovese, with those delicate aromas of wild rose, violets, wet earth and brambly forest berry. Background notes of licorice, camphor ash and balsam herb come into steady focus. I am delighted by the intensity and the immense focus of this wine. This Rosso di Montalcino stands with the best of Brunello...

This 'primus inter pares' has seen some upheaval while changing into French hands a couple of years ago and might herald stylistic change not welcomed by admirers of this true custodian of traditional Brunello. This Rosso di Montalcino from an outstanding vintage, with great acidity and surprisingly soft tannins clinging to the concentrated fruit, seems less austere than in the past, but is still in a class of its own.

This is a rich, flavorful Rosso with firm tannins and bright acidity. Medium body. Firm and beautiful. Hints of chocolate and spice. Drink or hold.