Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino 2017

Sophisticated Brunello from an old-school producer, Fuligni, that has been held for a considerable amount of time, it has a muted appearance and a closed-down finish, despite airing for 1.5 hours, I would recommend waiting 3-5 years before re-exposing it to the air; a rich, bold mahogany color with a textured olfactory profile that includes tones of menthol, clove, licorice, Asian five spices, star anise, clay, raspberry, cranberry, black cherry, black plum, and sandalwood, accompanied by a full-bodied touch with high brightness and firm tannins, a taste that recalls Assam tea, espresso, cacao, hibiscus, black cherry, and dried cranberry.

Rich, full-bodied wine with a profound garnet hue. Its character is shaped by a rich array of notes, accompanied by sour cherry, tobacco, and licorice, alongside warm spices, leather, and a nuance of balsamic. The flavor is marked by a balanced symmetry of acidity and tannins, with a chalky touch that adds substance and structure. Upon decantation, the wine reveals a light 'animal' quality, which adds nuance and interest. Overall, a well-balanced and smooth wine with a long finish.