2020 Brunello di Montalcino

The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is intense and exotic, bursting from the glass with a wild blend of crushed cherries, autumnal spices, cedar and dried blood orange. This is juicy upon entry with depths of tart red berry fruits that drench the palate in primary concentration. A whiplash of acidity adds a spicy sensation toward the close. It tapers off with a sweet and sour concentration, leaving edgy tannins to resonate and the mouth watering for more as hints of licorice slowly fade. This wild child will need some time to come fully into focus. Andrea Costanti commented that the 2020 is the most concentrated wine he's ever produced from the perspective of dry extract and polyphenols, all balanced by 5.8 grams per liter of residual acidity. It also finished at 14.4% alcohol (the highest ever here). 

- Eric Guido (10/2024)

There's a burst of cherry and plum flavors in this effusive red, along with eucalyptus, wild herb and earth accents. Exuberant and all knees and elbows today, but all of the components are there for aging over the short to medium term. Best from 2028 through 2045. 2,917 cases made, 750 cases imported. 

- Bruce Sanderson (06/2025)

From galestro-rich soils, the Conti Costanti 2020 Brunello di Montalcino offers a full bouquet of sweet fruit and spice. The wine is plump and rich in personality with sweet tannins and some phenolic heft due to the warm growing conditions. However, its velvety texture and full-bodied approach offer enough padding to smooth it over. Production is 34,000 bottles and larger formats. 

- Monica Larner (11/2024)