Ridolfi 'R' Brunello Di Montalcino 2019

The nose glistens with high toned red fruit, from bing cherries to dried cranberries and raspberries, while overtones of flowers and top soil bring freshness. The palate is juicy with mixed berries, which are lifted by a citrus wave, but undertones of salt, stone and earth provide balance. Acid gleams off polished tannins.

Ripe flavors of cherry, blackberry, plum and earth highlight this red. Muscular tannins emerge on the expanding finish, leaving a solid grip. The balance tips toward the tannins, with a subtle hint of fruit. Best from 2027 through 2042. 5,400 cases made, 1,500 cases imported.

Opening with forest shrub, pine tree and dried lilac, Ridolfi’s 2019 offers fragrant appeal. The palate is layered and concentrated with red and blackcurrant. Still quite compact with clayey tannins sticking persistently to the palate, it could do with another year or so to unfurl. Nice earthy, floral length. Located in the northeastern sector of Montalcino, Ridolfi’s vineyards sit at an average altitude of 300 meters primarily on clay rich in marine fossils. This estate Brunello gives a sense of place whereas the Donna Rebeca bottling emphasizes winemaking style.