Frescobaldi, Castelgiocondo Brunello di Montalcino 2018 (5Lt)

The Frescobaldi family's CastelGiocondo estate, located in Montalcino, Tuscany, has a storied history dating back to the 12th century. As one of the first four properties to produce Brunello di Montalcino in the 1800s, CastelGiocondo has been instrumental in establishing the wine's esteemed reputation. The 2018 vintage continues this legacy, reflecting the estate's dedication to quality and tradition while showcasing the distinct characteristics of the growing season.

Situated at an altitude of 300 metres, the vineyards benefit from diverse soils, including galestro, clay, and Pliocene sands. These unique conditions, combined with meticulous vineyard management and traditional winemaking techniques, impart a distinctive character to the wine. The 2018 growing season was marked by a cool, rainy winter, leading to a balanced development of the Sangiovese grapes, which ripened evenly to produce a wine of great structure and elegance.

Appearance: The wine presents a lively, luminous ruby-red colour with deep garnet reflections, hinting at its evolution and potential for further aging. The colour intensity is remarkable, with a bright and almost translucent rim that gracefully fades into a richer, more concentrated core. Swirling the glass reveals slow, well-defined legs, indicative of a structured wine with refined tannins and balanced alcohol. Its clarity and brilliance highlight the careful vinification process, ensuring purity and depth in every sip.

Aroma: The nose offers a mélange of berries, with blackberry dominating, complemented by floral notes of violets. Spicy hints of black pepper and cardamom emerge, followed by fresh nuances of juniper, and subtle undertones of toasted coffee and hazelnuts. Earthy tones of leather and dried tobacco contribute to the wine’s complexity, while a delicate balsamic freshness provides an elegant lift.

Taste: On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, with dense yet elegant tannins that provide structure without overwhelming the fruit. Flavours of ripe black fruits are interwoven with spicy notes of clove, star anise, and a touch of dark cocoa, creating a harmonious and balanced profile. A subtle minerality adds depth, leading to a well-rounded and sophisticated experience. The acidity remains fresh and vibrant, ensuring longevity and a dynamic evolution in the bottle.

Finish: The finish is long and warm, with persistent spicy notes accompanied by equally intense fruity undertones. The tannins remain silky yet firm, allowing the wine to linger gracefully on the palate. Subtle hints of dried herbs, espresso, and a touch of graphite emerge as the wine evolves, leaving a refined and savoury aftertaste. A final whisper of balsamic and crushed violet petals adds an extra layer of complexity, making the finish both memorable and deeply satisfying.

Food Pairing: This Brunello di Montalcino pairs exceptionally well with rich dishes such as osso buco or roasted game meats, where the wine’s robust structure and acidity complement the depth of flavours. It also enhances the umami richness of aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Toscano, bringing out its complex fruit and spice profile. For a more traditional pairing, slow-braised lamb with rosemary or wild boar stew would further elevate the wine’s depth and elegance.

The 2018 CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino in the 5-litre format is ideal for special occasions, offering a remarkable expression of the vintage and the estate’s enduring commitment to excellence. With its refined balance of power and elegance, this Brunello is enjoyable now yet possesses the structure to evolve beautifully over the coming years.