Viniou Reviews
Casanova di Neri’s 2010 Brunello di Montalcino is a benchmark wine hailing from one of the most illustrious appellations in Italy. Crafted purely from Sangiovese Grosso, locally known as Brunello, the 2010 vintage is celebrated for its exceptional balance and longevity. The estate is renowned for meticulous vineyard management and a commitment to expressing the terroir, relying on both traditional large oak casks and some modern vinification techniques to coax out elegance and structure. The wine displays a deep garnet hue, with an aromatic complexity of black cherry, dried rose, balsamic herbs, and subtle notes of tobacco and spice. On the palate, it reveals layers of ripe fruit, earthy undertones, firm yet refined tannins, and a vibrant minerality, culminating in a long, harmonious finish.
The Brunello di Montalcino DOC sits in southern Tuscany, an area famed for its rolling hills and medieval villages. The clay-limestone soils and the warm, dry Mediterranean climate are ideal for ripening the thick-skinned Sangiovese grape, while cooler nights help to retain its hallmark acidity and aromatic complexity. Montalcino’s history in winemaking dates back centuries, but Brunello’s emergence as an elite wine of Italy is largely a phenomenon of the past fifty years, built on strict production laws and emphasis on quality.
For food pairing, this Brunello truly shines alongside robust dishes. Tuscan cuisine makes an excellent match: think of wild boar ragù, aged pecorino cheese, or roasted Florentine steak (bistecca alla fiorentina). Its structure and depth can also complement slow-braised lamb or mushroom risotto, allowing the wine’s earthiness and savoury character to flourish.
For optimal enjoyment, serve at around 17-18°C. Decanting for an hour before tasting will help open up its bouquet and soften the tannins, ensuring a fuller, more expressive experience. This vintage, while already outstanding, has the capacity for further ageing should you wish to cellar it longer.
