Brunello di Montalcino Castelgiocondo Frescobaldi 2021 (750ML)

Between 20 and 30 separate plots go into Castelgiocondo’s Brunello, and the 2021 ran to some 350,000 bottles. The estate, southwest of Montalcino and anchored by a fortress dating to 1100, belongs to Marchesi Frescobaldi. Its 100% Sangiovese comes from southwest-facing vineyards at 300 to 400 meters on galestro, clay and Pliocene sand. A mild, wet winter and an April frost slowed the start of 2021; a hot, dry summer with big gaps between day and night temperatures kept acidity bright, and harvest came in the first week of October. After double sorting and steel fermentation, the wine aged in used barriques and large casks. Cherry, raspberry and plum carry allspice, pepper, incense and candied rose, with blood orange on the palate. Silky and juicy, with real tannic grip and a slightly citric finish, it is made for keeping. Wild boar ragù, bistecca or aged pecorino will reward the wait.