Il Marroneto Madonna delle Grazie Brunello di Montalcino 2018 (75cl, 14.5%)

Il Marroneto Madonna delle Grazie Brunello di Montalcino 2018 is a single-vineyard 100% Sangiovese from Montalcino DOCG, produced by Il Marroneto on the northern slope of Montalcino. The vineyard sits at approximately 420 metres above sea level, with mainly sandy, mineral-rich soils. Fruit comes from a selection of small, loose bunches. Fermentation takes place in Allier oak vats over 20 to 22 days, followed by 41 months of ageing in large 25-quintal oak barrels. Production is limited to roughly 8,500 bottles per vintage. Aroma opens with concentrated incense and lavender oil, then blackberry, rose, fine tobacco, chestnut, forest undergrowth and sweet smoke. The palate is plush, with fleshy black cherry, ripe raspberry, baking spice, black tea and savory herbal tones, supported by long suede-like tannins. The finish is exceptionally long, with dark fruit, leather and orange peel fading into mineral-laced warmth.