2008 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva
By Biondi Santi
The 2008 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva from Biondi Santi, Tuscany Italy
Famed for its incredibly restorative and supple nature, the 2008 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva from Biondi Santi is a mesmerising accomplishment in the sphere of Italian winemaking. Striding onto the stage with an audacious burst of dark fruit and layered sub-tropical nuances, this wine encapsulates an exceptional narrative of its inspiring terroir and venerated maker.
An Enviable Vintage
This illustrious vintage emanates from a string of climatic adjustments that took place in 2008. Having been moderately warm throughout much of the growing season, the last moment showers brought both a challenge and opportunity to put forth intricate and well-rounded characters to this wine. The emphasis on meticulously selected Sangiovese grapes harvested in a near-perfect timing adds a distinguished depth to its final profile.
\Reflecting the glory of fine wines from Italy, the 2008 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is not just about its flavour, but a sublime alliance of patience, understanding of vineyards and skilled winemaking craft that has made it an attractive venture amongst discerning wine investors.
Character City in every Sip
Each taste unravels the narrative of its stunning journey from vine to bottle - a harmonious symphony highlighting the exquisite Tuscan terroir. Expect an exciting interplay of lush dark fruits led by cherry, harmonising seamlessly with secondary notes of spice, tobacco leaf and leather. The firm, yet approachable tannins ensure longevity whilst remaining superbly palatable in its relative youth.
Eternal Journey Worth Investing
Destined for opulence, the 2008 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva delivers not merely a lip-smacking drinking experience but also an exceptional opportunity for the wine investor, offering great potential for value appreciation. In essence, the 2008 vintage is an intelligent investment; a timely proposition owing to its maturing character and brand legacy.
\Witnessing the true royalty of Italian winemaking in every facet of its being, the 2008 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva by Biondi Santi has flown the flag for fine Italian wines. It's where the fragrance of Tuscan vineyards meets a disciplined winemaking process, culminating in sheer indulgence that invites one to pause, sip, and marvel at this liquid tapestry woven by nature and man's collaboration.
Current market price
$9,980.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
428.57
Scores and tasting notes
The delightful 2008 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is expressive and feminine with crushed chamomile, forest fruit, bramble, tar and licorice. It renders a stirring, melodic performance that plays out slowly but with determination. Drink: 2017-2030. Perhaps the most iconic image in Montalcino is that of the lanky Franco Biondi Santi walking, cane in hand, down the cypress-lined drive that leads to his beloved Il Greppo estate. It's painful to think he no longer exists in that tight corridor of shade between the trees. The Brunello pioneer died in April 2013, at 92 years of age. Today, the imposing figure who greets you past the tree line belongs to his son, Jacopo Biondi Santi. The legacy of this estate and the guardianship of Montalcino-s most prized wine tradition now rests squarely on his shoulders. "I'm not afraid to say it," Jacopo confides: "I'm daunted by the enormity of this responsibility." This conversation was the single most precious moment I experienced during my last trip to Montalcino. Like many others, I was concerned about the generational shift at Il Greppo. Dottore Biondi Santi did everything himself and who could ever take his place? More importantly: Would the wines change? My exchange with Jacopo and that glimmer of vulnerability assured me that Il Greppo would be just fine. Jacopo has made some small tweaks in the winery. Most notably he brought his bladder press over from Castello di Montepo to replace his father's traditional press. Otherwise, the Old World formality of the winery is exactly the same. Importer: Vision Wine & Spirits, www.visionwineandspirits.com
Monica Larner - The Wine Advocate, 26 February 2014