2008 Brunello di Montalcino Annata
By Biondi Santi
2008 Brunello di Montalcino Annata from Biondi Santi, Italy
The 2008 Brunello di Montalcino Annata from Biondi Santi rightfully stands among the pantheon of revered fine wines from Italy. A thorough investigation unleashes a myriad of underlying complexities that embrace an allowance for a harmonious wine investing opportunity; aspects that illustrate 2008 as an extraordinary vintage year in Montalcino.
A Sublime Production
Mater nature colluded with divine providence to bestow an unusual, yet ultimately rewarding weather pattern upon Montalcino in 2008. Cool temperatures persisting into spring delayed the bud break, followed by a mild summer that culminated in a perfect September – ample sunshine and regular rain intervals typifying the latter weeks. The resultant grapes offered an rare fusion of sugar levels and acidity—an intimation of excellence.
Engaging Eccentricity, A Sensory Delight
An encounter with the 2008 Brunello di Montalcino Annata circumnavigates the senses – starting with a brilliant ruby-red immersion visually through to a sensory indulgence of intricate olfactory and palate delights. The bouquet unveils vibrant floral notes juxtaposed with a delicate trace of wild berry and graphite undertones—all complementing one another for an intriguing aromatic complexity.
The taste is an indulgent iteration of this vinous equation: rich fruit flavours—a tribute to those meritorious Montalcinian summers—drape themselves luxuriously over the firm tannic structure. Tobacco whispers lend a subtle elegance, imbuing sophistication—a euphoric testament to excellent vinification practices at Biondi Santi.
The Exemplary Epilogue
In essence, the 2008 Brunello di Montalcino Annata from Biondi Santi is not simply a wine; it's an embodiment of a distinct vintage, reflecting a story of its provenance, weather whims and meticulous craftsmanship. A compelling narrative complemented by the wine’s age-worthy nature, resulting in a blend that offers both an immediate olfactory enjoyment and an auspicious aging potential.
For the discerning wine investor, the 2008 Brunello di Montalcino Annata from Biondi Santi represents an alluring proposition—epitomising both the elegance of fine Italian wines as well as profitable investment potential. A singular experience to savor, be it for pleasure or profit.
Current market price
$3,290.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
164.17
Scores and tasting notes
The 2008 Brunello di Montalcino Annata is quite pretty in this vintage. It displays a classic profile of underbrush, tobacco, smoke, licorice and black cherries. The tannins are firm but nicely balanced. I expect the 2008 will drink well with minimum cellaring. It is one of the more open Brunellos I can remember tasting here. Still, there is plenty of Biondi Santi kick in the wine’s acidity and tannin profile. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2038. Sadly, Franco Biondi Santi passed away just a few short weeks after my most recent visit to Il Greppo. I tasted with Franco Biondi Santi several times over the years. Always impeccably dressed and aristocratic in demeanor, Biondi Santi was unfailingly polite but also passionate in his advocacy of tradition. Biondi Santi would always accompany me throughout the cellar, tasting through all the vintages in barrel, even though advancing age clearly took a toll on his energy level toward the end of his life. Despite his age, Biondi Santi ran Il Greppo with an iron fist. The winery was always clean and well-maintained. Nothing happened at the estate without his explicit approval. I saw that once again first hand when I visited earlier this year. As was the custom when he was ill during one of my tastings, we always spoke by phone before I left the property. Mentally, Biondi Santi was as engaged as always. Today, the young Biondi Santi Brunellos appear less massively tannic and impenetrable than they have in the past. My February tasting ended with the 2012s from cask. For those who haven’t heard, 2012 is a potentially outstanding vintage in Montalcino. If the wine I tasted in cask is as phenomenal in bottle, it will be a fitting conclusion to a brilliant career. Importer: Vision Wine & Spirits, Secaucus, NJ; tel. (201) 210-0400
Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 27 June 2013