Tenuta Fanti Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Half bottle 2017

Tenuta Fanti, a historic estate in Montalcino, Tuscany, has been under the stewardship of the Fanti family since the early 19th century. Spanning 300 hectares, the estate dedicates 52 hectares to certified sustainable vineyards, primarily cultivating Sangiovese for their esteemed Brunello di Montalcino. The 2017 vintage presented challenges due to a hot and dry growing season, resulting in lower yields but producing wines with notable concentration and structure. Tenuta Fanti's meticulous vineyard management and winemaking techniques have yielded a Brunello that reflects both the character of the vintage and the unique terroir of Montalcino.

Appearance: In the glass, the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino presents a bright ruby red hue with garnet reflections, indicative of its developing maturity. The wine's clarity and brilliance reflect precise vinification, while its medium intensity suggests a wine of elegance and depth. Swirling reveals slow-moving, delicate legs, hinting at its balanced alcohol and structured tannins.

Aroma: The nose is greeted with a classic Sangiovese profile, blending dried rose and black cherries, complemented by dusty earth, worn leather, and hints of cedar spice. As the wine opens, subtle undertones of balsamic and herbal nuances emerge, with traces of tobacco, blood orange peel, and a whisper of baking spices adding complexity to the aromatic profile.

Taste: On the palate, this Brunello offers a sleek and focused experience. Flavours mirror the nose, with cherry and red fruit taking centre stage, intertwined with spicy elements and a touch of liquorice. The tannins are elegant and well-integrated, providing a supple texture that envelops the mouth. The wine's balanced acidity ensures freshness, while the robust structure hints at its aging potential. Mid-palate, subtle notes of dark chocolate, black tea, and Mediterranean herbs enhance the complexity, creating a layered and engaging profile.

Finish: The finish is long and persistent, with a beautiful evolution of flavours that continue to unfold after each sip. Initially, bright red fruit lingers, slowly giving way to notes of dried herbs, graphite, and a refined earthy minerality. A touch of balsamic depth and well-integrated oak brings a savoury complexity, while the tannins leave a smooth yet structured impression. As the wine fades, delicate hints of espresso, anise, and crushed violets add a final whisper of elegance, making for a graceful and memorable finish. The wine’s structure and balance suggest exceptional aging potential, allowing it to evolve with further bottle maturation.

Food Pairing: This Brunello di Montalcino pairs exceptionally well with rich, savoury dishes. Consider traditional Tuscan fare such as wild boar ragù over pappardelle pasta, where the wine's acidity and tannic structure complement the hearty flavours. Alternatively, a grilled Florentine steak seasoned with rosemary and olive oil would harmonise beautifully, with the wine's fruit and herbal notes enhancing the dish's robust character. For a cheese pairing, aged Pecorino Toscano offers a delightful match, balancing the wine's intensity with its sharp, salty profile. Slow-roasted duck with a cherry glaze or truffle-infused risotto would also highlight the wine’s depth and structure.

The 2017 Tenuta Fanti Brunello di Montalcino DOCG in a half bottle format offers the advantage of a more rapid aging process, making it accessible for earlier enjoyment while retaining the wine's inherent complexity and elegance. This vintage exemplifies the estate's dedication to producing wines that capture the essence of their terroir, offering a harmonious balance of fruit, structure, and finesse. Whether savoured now or cellared for future appreciation, this Brunello promises a rewarding experience.