2013 - Brunello di Montalcino, Conti Costanti

The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino remains a total pleasure throughout, wafting up with an enticing blend of ripe wild berries encased in an air of crushed stone as citrus and dried herbs add further complexity. This is juicy upon entry, with mineral-inflected red berry fruit depths perfectly offset by stimulating acidity. A salty tinge adds gravitas toward the close. It finishes with outstanding length and youthful tension, leaving crunchy tannins and a tart citrus tinge that keeps me looking back to the glass for another sip. I absolutely love this sultry Costanti Brunello.

Lustrous mid ruby with orange tinges. Shy but finely perfumed. Still closed but with some concentration underneath. Just a hint of fruitcake adding complexity. Youthful and energetic cherry fruit with finely ground tannins streamlining the fruit. Lots of acidity pushing the fine fruit. Still a little embryonic and more to come. (WS)