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La Serena Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Gemini 2018 750ml
OUT OF STOCK
Sample image only.Please see Item description for product Information. When ordering, the item shipped will match the product listing if there are any discrepancies. Do not order solely on the label if you feel it does not match product description.
SKU 958206
$83.93/bottle
Out of stock
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This expressive red delivers aromas and flavors of cherry, currant, mushroom, eucalyptus, iron, sanguine and smoky autumn woods. Firm, with a line of drying tannins, this stays persistent, just leaning to the tannic side in the balance. Shows terrific potential. Best from 2026 through 2042. 750 cases made, 280 cases imported.
The name of this grape, meaning 'blood of Jove' conjures up evocative images of long dead civilizations, and gives the Sangiovese varietal a sense of the holy, the sacred, the special. Indeed, this particular type of Italian grape has been cultivated and processed for thousands of years, and is said to be the original favorite grape varietal of the Romans, and the Etruscans before them. Throughout history, vintners have continued to plant this varietal, and they continue to produce wonderful wines to this day. The long bunches of very dark, round fruit are treasured by fine wineries in Italy and a few other places around the world, and when young, these grapes are lively – full of strawberry flavors and a little spiciness. However, it is when they are aged in oak that they take on some truly special flavors and aromas, as seen in some of the finest wines of the Old World.
Country
Italy
There are few countries in the world with a viticultural history as long or as illustrious as that claimed by Italy. Grapes were first being grown and cultivated on Italian soil several thousand years ago by the Greeks and the Pheonicians, who named Italy 'Oenotria' – the land of wines – so impressed were they with the climate and the suitability of the soil for wine production. Of course, it was the rise of the Roman Empire which had the most lasting influence on wine production in Italy, and their influence can still be felt today, as much of the riches of the empire came about through their enthusiasm for producing wines and exporting it to neighbouring countries. Since those times, a vast amount of Italian land has remained primarily for vine cultivation, and thousands of wineries can be found throughout the entire length and breadth of this beautiful country, drenched in Mediterranean sunshine and benefiting from the excellent fertile soils found there. Italy remains very much a 'land of wines', and one could not imagine this country, its landscape and culture, without it.
Region
Tuscany
The central Italian region of Tuscany is widely understood to be one of the world's most famous and highly regarded wine regions. The beautiful rolling hillsides and medieval towns and castles which are a key feature of the area are also home to many of Europe's finest wineries, and extremely high quality vineyards growing the distinctive Sangiovese and Vernaccia grape varietals which are the flavorful backbone of Tuscany's wonderful red and white wines. For almost three thousand years, this region has been recognized as an ideal home for wine production on a large scale, and the ancient Etruscans, Greeks and Romans all noticed that fine grape varietals flourished on the unique soils and under the hot sunshine which typifies the area. Today, Tuscany is home to a wide range of wines, from the traditional to the complex, but all dedicated to excellent flavors and aromas, and maintaining the region's international reputation.
Appellation
Brunello Di Montalcino
Brunello di Montalcino, an esteemed wine appellation in Tuscany, Italy, has been crafting exceptional red wines since its establishment in 1966. Focused exclusively on the Sangiovese grape, specifically the local Brunello clone, this region's unique terroir of warm, dry climate and well-drained soils imparts richness and complexity to the wines. The hallmark of Brunello is its extended aging, requiring a minimum of four years, with at least two spent in oak barrels. This meticulous process results in bold, full-bodied wines with robust tannins, vibrant acidity, and a remarkable aging potential. Flavors of ripe red berries and dark cherries, coupled with notes of leather, tobacco, and spices, define the nuanced profile of Brunello di Montalcino wines. Exploring these wines offers enthusiasts a captivating journey into the world of Italian winemaking, showcasing the harmonious blend of tradition, terroir, and meticulous craftsmanship.
WS95pts
Wine Spectator
This expressive red delivers aromas and flavors of cherry, currant, mushroom, eucalyptus, iron, sanguine and smoky autumn woods. Firm, with a line of drying tannins, this stays persistent, just leaning to the tannic side in the balance. Shows terrific potential. Best from 2026 through 2042. 750 cases made, 280 cases imported.
JS95pts
James Suckling
Graphite, dark licorice, toast, dark cherry, pepper, leather and eucalyptus aromas with balsamic depth. Powerful on the palate, with a full body, thick velvety tannins, crisp acidity and a savory, toasted finish. Good balance in a powerful way. Try from 2028.
VM93pts
Vinous Media
A burst of autumnal spices, cocoa and dried black cherries form a seductive bouquet as the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Gemini opens in the glass. This is velvety smooth yet lifted in feel, with a textural wave of ripe red and blue fruits swirling across a vibrant acidity stream. It finishes with admirable length and a pleasantly chewy sensation, tannic yet not severe, as hints of steeped plum slowly taper off. A lovely balance here should carry the 2018 Gemini in the cellar for up to a decade.
DC91pts
Decanter
Gemini references twin brothers, Andrea and Marcello Mantengoli who took over La Serena from their father, Ennio. Crafted from a parcel planted in 1993 surrounding the estate, the 2018 shows garnet tints and tertiary nuances; this is mature, but not spent. A bouquet of tobacco, cocoa, dried tarragon and fennel holds promise. Generously fruited, particularly for the vintage, the palate becomes progressively earthier, bringing in leather and game nuances. Heat mounts on the back end, as does a touch of dryness to the tannins.
Winery Notes
• 100% Sangiovese.
• From a single parcel of 20+ year old vines next to the winery.
• Fermentation in stainless steel with temperature control.
• Aged 42 months large 30-40 hl oak casks.
• Finishes in the bottle for 6 months.
