Il Palazzone Brunello di Montalcino 2017

Il Palazzone Brunello is intense ruby red with deep garnet hues. The bouquet is intense and ethereal with aromas ranging from dark fruit and berries to chocolate, coffee, leather, liquorice and balsamic notes. The wines are silky and elegant, potent yet balanced and characterised by sweet tannins. Il Palazzone Brunellos are beautifully balanced with all the promise of their bouquet fulfilled in the mouth and finish.

While located just outside the town of Montalcino at 540 metres above sea level, Il Palazzone also owns two vineyard plots in the southern area of Castelnuovo dell’Abate. The estate’s Brunello rarely exceed 14% and the 2017 is a surprisingly moderate 13.61%. Bright plum blossoms give pretty contrast to earthy brushwood and chestnut aromas, and the palate demonstrates pure orchard fruit. This may not have the depth of the most profound Brunello, but it is vivacious, juicy and charming – not an easy feat in 2017. Date: Jan 2022; Drinking Window: 2022-2028; Rating: 91 Points; Michaela Morris; Decanter

Lots of ripe berry and sandalwood, with some licorice on the nose. Full-bodied and layered with bark, mushroom and wet earth, with some balsamic undertones to the fruit. Big, yet not overly tannic. Drink or hold. Date: Aug 2022; Rating: 93 Points; James Suckling

Elegantly structured this lovely red has scents recalling camphor, blue flowers, dark spice and coffee bean. Smooth and savory, the linear palate features juicy Marasca cherry, crushed raspberry and star anise set against taut, polished tannins. Date: Feb 2022; Drink: 2025–2029; Rating: 93 Points; Kerin O'Keefe; Wine Enthusiast