2010 Banfi Brunello di Montalcino
Medium ruby with garnet reflections; tight rim. Classic sweet cherry fruit with hints of plum jam, coffee and tobacco. Savoury finish. Full bodied. Great persistence and ageing potential. 2010 is, of course, a great vintage after 2004, 2006 and 2007.
Aged in French oak barrels of 350 lt as well as in 60-120 hl Slavonian barrels. To us, the stylistics is closer to 'New Wave' with some traditional elements. Fermentation took place in customized French Oak and stainless steel at 27-29 degrees centigrade for 10-12 days, followed by malolactic fermentation in barrique, then ageing for 24 months in French oak barrels (20% French Oak barriques of in 350 l. capacity, 80% French Oak Casks of 90 and 60 hl.capacity
Price is right for the good economy of production scale, as there are over 170 hectares of estate vineyards in the warmer southern hill area of Montalcino. Altitude is not as high: 220 meters above sea level.
Scores are impressive.
95 points James Suckling Fabulous aromas of dried rose petal, orange peel, oyster shell and hints of dark fruits. Full body, very fine tannins with a mineral, berry and orange-peel and Tuscan-dust undertone. A structured, salty, savory finish. Better in 2017. (12/2014)
92 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Castello Banfi's 2010 Brunello di Montalcino is one of the ripest wines I have tasted from this vintage. The bouquet opens to chewy tones of cherry or raspberry preserves with dried prunes and figs at the back. This is no surprise considering the softly sloping, sea-facing vineyards located in the lower part of the appellation where temperatures are slightly warmer on average. There is no doubt that this is an impeccably crafted wine (it sees 50-50 aging in French barrique and larger oak casks) that aspires to a great level of intensity, power and fullness. The mouthfeel is round and immediate with sweet fruit flavors. This Brunello will appeal to those who like a softer side of Sangiovese. (2/2015)
92 points Wine Spectator Aromas of eucalyptus, baked plum, leather and licorice complement the chocolate, leather and tar flavors. On the savory side, with dusty tannins finishing balanced and long. Best from 2016 through 2028. 48,500 cases made.
