Cecchi ‘Brunello di Montalcino’ DOCG 2018
Grape Varietal: 100% Sangiovese
Growing Region: Montalcino, Tuscany - Italy
Director / Winemaker: Andrea Cecchi
Senior Winemaker: Miria Bracali
Last year in June 2023, I had the opportunity to visit all three of the uniquely different sites that are the source of this acclaimed Sangiovese from the heart of Tuscany. After tasting this vintage with the team, commenting how articulate an expression of 'Brunello - Sangiovese', showcasing the elegance that comes with growing this dynamic varietal on these unique sites and slopes of Montalcino. Crafted with an honesty, giving the spotlight to the hero that is Brunello Sangiovese. As in many cases the winemaking can take over, but not here, a sincere wine with style. I have had the pleasure of working with the Cecchi Family and their passionate team for two decades and are an extended part of my family.
Miria and the team have crafted a wine with a defined style, an authentic representation of such a celebrated place in the world of wine. Vinification initially took place in stainless steel tanks. Fermentation was at around 28°C and maceration took approximately 2 weeks. The wine was then transferred to traditional sized French oak barrels for 24 months maturation, in a mix of 20% new, and 80% two and three-year-old oak. After tasting and blending, the wine was bottled, and then rested in their cellars for another 24 months development, before being labelled for release.
★ On the nose alluring aromas of dark cherries, wildflowers, dried herbs and a hint of cacao. These notes then turn into captivating flavours expressing those dark cherries, plums, violets and cherry-chocolate infused with vanilla oak. Nicely wrapped in evenly distributed textural tannins & varietal acidity resulting in a well-balanced palate. A beguiling complexity is simply delivered across your palate, and with a lingering velvety smooth finish.
This 2018 Cecchi ‘Brunello di Montalcino’ DOCG has 14% Alc./vol. Classic Dry Style. Decant for 30-45 minutes and serve in an appropriately shaped red wine glass at 17°- 18°C. - *NZ$74.99
CELLARING POTENTIAL: *(Article Posted 3/9/24)
With respectful decanting drinking well now: plus, will age nicely for another 4 - 5 years.
FOOD PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:
Perfect wine pairing with tender beef, slow roasted pork, lamb, veal, wild game or duck with a wine jus, aged prosciutto, mushroom and truffle pasta dishes with a herb sauce, earthy vegetarian cuisine and aged hard cheeses - enjoy.
