2018 Pertimali Sassetti Brunello di Montalcino
Livio Sassetti, part-time poet and an original founder of the Brunello Consorzio (1967) consolidated his father’s keen eye for the best vineyard land to bring their holdings of the great slope of Montosoli up to 16 ha, 12 of it able to produce Brunello di Montalcino. The presence of another ‘Div 1’ producer Altesino and the consistent high results by others, like Canalicchio di Sopra, tend to confirm the status of this treasured 75 ha patch, just north east of Montalcino. As ever, the wise old heads realised that the best wine comes from the best vineyards. This mostly south-facing slope is composed of marl and siliceous limestone soils, great for acidity, austerity, deep roots and excellent drainage. Altitude is from 350 up to 400 meters, and the whole terroir, soils and location offer notably lower temperatures than even a little further south (within the Montalcino zone). Vineyard practises are biodynamic – as they have been for decades now.
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Depths of dark, balsamic-tinged black cherry, plum sauce and autumnal spice make the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino impossible to ignore. This is velvety to the core, nearly opulent in feel, with a dense wave of ripe red fruits complemented by nuances of sweet lavender and tobacco. It leaves the palate clenched with fine tannins and primary concentration, creating a classic sensation that transcends the vintage. Nearly a minute goes by, and hints of cocoa and sweet herbs continue to resonate. Wow! Production at the Pertimali estate was down by 20% due to the spring frost, and the decision was made to place all of the juice usually intended for the Riserva into the straight Brunello, the result being one of the top wines of the vintage. - Vinous
The Pertamali estate vineyards are at the top of the Montosoli hills, north of Montalcino, with only 12ha planted on sandy clay over Galestro limestone. After a relatively short ten days of maceration, the wine was pressed into 30 hL Slavonian Botti, where it was aged for 36 months. A medley of aromas burst out of the glass; roses, hibiscus, dark cherry, amaro, leather, and apricot stones intertwine. The palate reveals a tight, silty texture complemented by a pronounced graphite minerality, while the linear acidity gracefully guides the flavours across the palate. Truly exquisite and enduring! - Marcell Kustos, Wine Pilot
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Region - Brunello di Montalcino DOCG
Comune - Montosoli
Variety - Sangiovese