Tassi Montalcino Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Franci DOCG 2018

Tassi is a boutique winery in Montalcino, Tuscany, founded by the Franci family and known for its small-production, high-quality Brunello wines. The estate, located near the historic Porta di Montalcino, has a deep-rooted passion for Sangiovese and focuses on traditional yet meticulous winemaking. The Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Franci DOCG 2018 is a top-tier expression from the estate, crafted only in the best vintages. Aged longer than standard Brunello, this Riserva showcases exceptional depth, structure, and longevity.

The vineyards are situated at high elevations, where a mix of galestro (schist), clay, and limestone soils help produce structured yet elegant wines. The 2018 vintage in Montalcino was marked by a balanced growing season, with a warm summer tempered by cool nights, allowing for optimal ripening while preserving acidity. The wine is aged for a minimum of five years, including extended time in large Slavonian oak barrels, which softens the tannins while enhancing complexity and finesse.

Appearance: Deep garnet with hints of ruby at the core, showing beautiful vibrancy despite its age. The rim fades slightly to brick-red, suggesting early signs of evolution. Slow, thick legs coat the glass, hinting at its richness and structure.

Aroma: Intense and layered, with aromas of dark cherry, black plum, and dried fig leading the way. Notes of leather, tobacco, and crushed violets add depth, while hints of cedar, sweet spice, and earthy truffle reveal the influence of extended ageing. Subtle balsamic and graphite notes emerge with time in the glass.

Taste: Powerful yet refined, with a core of ripe black cherry and redcurrant balanced by savoury undertones of dried herbs and forest floor. The wine’s structure is firm, supported by well-integrated oak, while lively acidity keeps the richness in check. Hints of dark chocolate, espresso, and crushed spices unfold on the mid-palate, leading to a beautifully complex and harmonious expression of Sangiovese.

Finish: Exceptionally long and elegant, with lingering notes of black tea, dried rose petals, and a touch of liquorice. The tannins remain firm yet polished, promising excellent ageing potential. A final hint of minerality and warm spice lingers, adding to its complexity and finesse.

Food pairing:
Bistecca alla Fiorentina – The wine’s robust structure and tannins complement the juicy, charred flavours of the steak, while its acidity cuts through the richness, creating a perfectly balanced pairing.

Slow-braised wild boar ragu with pappardelle – The earthy depth of the ragu enhances the wine’s savoury, truffle-like notes, while the bright red fruit of the Brunello adds a vibrant contrast to the dish’s richness.