2012 Castelgiocondo Brunello di Montalcino

The Frescobaldi family is becoming an ever more important force in the Montalcino territory thanks to recent land and winery investments. The Castelgiocondo 2012 Brunello di Montalcino is a soft and supple expression of Sangiovese. This oak-driven wine offers a generous bouquet that is based in part on dark cherry and primary fruit, and in part on spicy tones of toast and smoke. That said, this estate has very much redefined its use of oak and the results show much more balance and purity compared to wines made one decade ago. The brightness of the acidity also comes as a surprise given the warm vintage. That freshness is essential to the wine's aging potential.  Wine Advocate 92

($79) Good full ruby-red. Perfumed red cherry, herbs and sandalwood on the nose. Enters fresh and juicy, then mountingly tannic with the red cherry and herbal flavors kept under wraps by a strong tannic cloak. This brooding, very youthful Brunello finishes long and crisp, but needs plenty of time to soften and come around.  Vinous Media 91