Pian delle Vigne (Antinori) Brunello di Montalcino 2014 750ml

Bright red. Delicate nuances of quince and poached pear complement perfumed violet and lily of the valley aromas on the enticingly pure, almost aromatic nose. Then delicate flavors of almond kernel, raspberry and minerals on the tangy, piquant, lusciously fresh palate. More raspberry notes repeat on the nicely perfumed, lingering finish. An outstanding Brunello, in fact one of the better ones from Antinori in years; I especially like it because it just goes with the flow of the year rather than trying too hard to extract what could not be obtained from this weather-challenged vintage. Lovely stuff; well done.

The 2014 Brunello di Montalcino Pian delle Vigne works very nicely all said and done. It presents the light and undertone character of the vintage against the ripe and more opulent style that is associated with this vineyard site at the lower parts of southern Montalcino. These two elements result in a balanced and forthright performance. The wine opens to a dark garnet color and ripe aromas of dark cherry and blackberry followed by potting soil, rose bud and grilled herb.

Aromas of stewed plum, pressed violet, tobacco and a whiff of leather lead the way. The medium-bodied, linear palate offers succulent black cherry, crushed herb and star anise alongside fine-grained tannins and bright acidity. Drink 2020–2029.

Aromas of tar, spice and dried berries follow through to a medium body with stewed fruit and chewy tannins. Medium body. Juicy finish. Drink now.

Features black cherry, plum, fruitcake, leather and earth notes abound, which are matched to a supple texture starting out then cede ground to firm tannins. Hints of coffee and chocolate emerge on the finish. Best from 2020 through 2028. 12,040 cases made, 3,000 cases imported.

Deep ruby red; complex on the nose. Full-structured and velvety, with rich perfumes and hints of flowers, vanilla and chocolate. Well structured and balance with a lengthy finish.100 % Sangiovese (locally called Brunello). Ruby red colour with garnet hues. Complex generous nose with mature aromas of cherries, red berries, tobacco and hints of coffee and cocoa powder. Multilayered structure with nicely balanced soft tannins, elegant fruit leading to a very lingering finish. The Pian delle Vigne Estate is located six kilometers south of Montalcino, above the Val d'Orcia valley, and it was named for the characteristic 19th century train station situated in the property, which is still in use. There are 27 hectares of 20 years-old vines and 33 hectares planted recently which will begin their production between 2000 and 2001. The vineyards which produced the Brunello vintage 1995 are at an elevation of 130 metres sea leavel, with south east exposure. The soil is stony calcareous composition, with tufaceous areas, tending to be quite poor. Brunello di Montalcino is produced exclusively with Sangiovese. The production law is very detailed stating the following criteria: - Area of Production: Community of Montalcino - Variety: Sangiovese - Maximum yield: 80 qtl per hectare - Yield of grapes in wine: 68% - Wood ageing: at least 2 years in oak - Bottle ageing: at least 4 months (6 months for the riserva) - Minimum alcohol: 12,5% vol. - Release date: as of January 1st following the 5th year since the harvest.