The 2015 Altesino Brunello di Montalcino was the winning bottle in the July Installment of Pick My Next Bottle. The wine was not decanted and served with burgers and a fresh salad on a warm Summer evening in Seattle.
Altesino is set amongst the north eastern hills of Montalcino. The imposing structure of the 15th century Palazzo Altesi overlooks the estate. Built by the Tuscan family Tricerchi, whose marble crest can still be seen over the old oak entrance door, Altesino has been owned by the Gnudi Angelini family since 2002.
Ruby red in color. 14.5% ABV. With a little coaxing scents of red fruits, lavender and baking spices emerge from the glass. Medium body with exquisite acidity. Smooth and silky. Crushed cherry, tobacco, iron and earth on the palate. The finish is long and seamless with fine grained tannins. This Brunello has the structure, power and fruit to age well for another 6-8 years if not longer.
My rating: 94 points.
Altesino is widely available for around $60 and should be a buy in most vintages.