2019 Marchesi Antinori 'Pian Delle Vigne' Brunello Di Montalcino
A ruby red masterpiece, the 2019 Pian Delle Vigne Brunello di Montalcino offers a complex bouquet of cherries, black cherries, and blood oranges, accented by violets, vanilla, and subtle balsamic notes. The palate is fresh and savory, with silky, elegant tannins that lead to a long, persistent finish defined by citrus fruit, delicate spices, and hints of vanilla. This vintage blends velvety textures with ripe red and black fruits, all underpinned by juicy acidity and a lifted, energetic feel. The finish is structured and long, with lingering orange-tinged blackberry and savory herbs. A wine of exceptional balance, it showcases impressive tannin management and offers fans of Pian Delle Vigne a refined, dynamic experience.
There just aren't many on the level of Piero Antinori. Process this for a moment: He represents the 25th generation in an unbroken string of vintners, beginning in 1385. 26 generations! His family started accumulating knowledge about vineyard and cellar practices when Chaucer was working on The Canterbury Tales. It's difficult to comprehend. His lifetime experience cannot be overstated as he has literally been involved with wine his entire life. In fact, one of his first memories is of German soldiers shooting barrels in his family's cellars as Europe descended into chaos at the end of WWII. He has a truly encyclopedic knowledge of what it means to be a winemaker, and he understands that he is a vital link from his family's past to its future as the Antinori footprint expands across the globe.
James Suckling
Sweet black cherries with some blackberries, as well as cherry blossom in both the nose and palate. Medium to full body with firm tannins and a chewy finish, but it will soften and come together nicely with bottle age
Jeb Dunnuck
A rich ruby color, the 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino is ripe and floral with aromas of sweet cherries, mocha, candied flowers, and mossy earth. Medium to full-bodied, it brings snappy fresh acidity along with ripe tannins, a clean finish, and a touch of smoky incense on the back palate. Its grip hangs on a bit, but it’s relatively approachable and will do well over the coming 10-12 years.
Vinous
The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a dark and brooding bouquet that mixes plum sauce with dark chocolate and espresso beans. This blends velvety textures with ripe red and black fruits all over a core of juicy acidity while maintaining a lifted and energetic feel. The 2019 finishes structured and long yet still relatively fresh. Orange-tinged blackberry and savory herbs linger. I am very impressed by the palate performance and tannin management of the 2019, yet I wish the winery would push for an equally fresh display on the nose. That said, fans of the Pian delle Vigne style will love the energy in this wine.
Wine Spectator
Iron and sanguine aromas and flavors define this muscular red, while plum cherry, menthol and tar notes join in on the chewy and expansive finish. Balanced on the side of the tannins for now, with fine length. Best from 2027 through 2042.