2013 - Brunello di Montalcino, Fuligni

Luminous red. High-pitched aromas of sour red cherry, raspberry, rose, stainless steel, white pepper and minerals. Dense and silky in texture but displays great juiciness, clarity and floral lift; the lively but harmonious acidity really lifts and frames the bright red and mineral flavors. Totally saturates the palate and yet comes off as virtually weightless. This hauntingly beautiful wine showcases everything Brunello can be when made from an ultra-competent producer farming Sangiovese vines that grow in what is a real grand cru section of the much too large Brunello di Montalcino denomination.

The Fuligni 2013 Brunello di Montalcino exhibits a dark garnet color with copper-like highlights at the rim. The wine is sophisticated and austere in character, and the fruit tones are etched and firm. All of these qualities contribute to the overall sense of finesse and pedigree presented by Fuligni. Dark cherry and dried fruit segue to mineral aromas and campfire ash. The wine maintains a somewhat serious and introspective quality throughout. This Annata Brunello shows more nuance compared to the 2012 Riserva.

From magnum. Mid to deep ruby with bricky rim. Iron and wet stones and then exotic spice. Needs lots of time to unfurl, and the more exciting it becomes! Racy raspberry fruit and layers and layers of fine tannins. Fantastic balance. Real elegance and finesse. Tactile. (WS)