Brunello di Montalcino Casanova di Neri 2021 (750ML)

Casanova di Neri makes single-vineyard Brunellos, but its white label draws on the estate's historic parcels in the cool district of Torrenieri. It is 100% Sangiovese. In 2021 a return of cold after budbreak slowed the vines, then a hot, dry May and June let them catch up, and picking began in the second week of September. Bunches are sorted by hand, destemmed and passed through an optical sorter; fermentation starts on its own yeasts and runs 23 days in conical steel vats. Black cherry and small wild berries meet bay leaf, juniper, black tea and cinnamon, with a floral perfume that opens slowly. The palate is succulent yet still guarded, with fine, persistent tannins and a straight, spicy finish edged with licorice. Critics expect it to come around from 2028. Its natural partners are bistecca alla fiorentina, braised rabbit and grilled portobello.