Canalicchio di Sopra - Brunello di Montalcino DOCG - 2019

94/100 points Parker/Suckling, magnificent Brunello from one of the best vineyards from the five-star 2019 vintage

Ruby red wine with garnet glints, refined aromas of ripe cherries, red berries and blackberries on the nose. Subtle notes of rose petals, liquorice and spices are complemented by hints of tobacco, cedar and a touch of truffle.

In the mouth this Brunello is full, elegant with perfectly balanced tannins. The notes of red fruits, such as cherries and raspberries, are supported by nuances of dark chocolate, spices and a hint of leather. The finish is long and silky with a mineral freshness.

The vineyards of Canalicchio di Sopra grow on a soil of galestro (schist-clay soil) and clay, which ensures excellent drainage and a deep, mineral structure to the wine.

The vineyards are located at an altitude of 300 to 350 meters above sea level in the northeastern part of Montalcino. This location ensures cool nights and warm days, which allows the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly.

The oldest vines were planted in the 1960s, with later plantings in the 1980s and 1990s. The combination of old and younger vines contributes to the complexity and depth of the wine.

The 2019 vintage is considered an excellent year in Montalcino. A wet spring was followed by a warm, dry summer with cool nights, which allowed the grapes to develop a perfect balance of sugar and acidity.

The grapes were picked by hand in the second half of September, just when they had reached their optimum ripeness. Only the best grapes were selected for this prestigious Brunello.

After harvesting, the grapes are gently destemmed and pressed. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures and lasts for about 20 days. During this process, the skins are regularly immersed to achieve maximum extraction of color, flavor and tannins.

The wine matures for at least two years in large Slavonian oak barrels and then for at least another six months in the bottle before being released. This maturation gives the wine its complex aromas, silky structure and long finish.

The Brunello di Montalcino Canalicchio di Sopra 2019 is a perfect companion for grilled red meat, game dishes and leg of lamb. This wine also goes well with truffle risotto and mature cheeses such as Pecorino Toscano. Serve the wine at a temperature of 16-18°C for the best taste experience.

About Canalicchio di Sopra:
Canalicchio di Sopra was founded in 1962 by Primo Pacenti and has played a prominent role in the wine-growing history of Montalcino ever since. The winery produced its first bottle of Brunello di Montalcino in 1966 and was one of the twelve founding members of the Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino in 1967. The estate covers a total of 60 hectares, of which 19 hectares are planted with vineyards and 2 hectares with olive groves.

The vineyards are divided between two different zones in Montalcino: Canalicchio di Sopra and Le Gode di Montosoli. This variation in exposure and soil type contributes to the complexity and diversity of the Sangiovese wines produced. Since the beginning of the 21st century, the winery has been managed by the third generation of the family, who combine modern technologies with respect for traditional methods and nature.

This dedication to both innovation and tradition has established Canalicchio di Sopra as one of the most respected producers in the region.

94/100 points Robert Parker

With a hint of candied cherry, grenadine or Shirley Temple, the Canalicchio di Sopra 2019 Brunello di Montalcino reveals purple blossom, dried flower, cough drop and balsam herb. The wine is very nicely stitched together with integrated oak that comes through in a structural way but not too much on the bouquet. The tannins do feel dry on the mid-palate, but they remain fine and tight.

94/100 points James Suckling

Black cherry, black berry, and lead pencil on the nose. Some fresh bark too. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a fresh finish. Linear tannins. Drink after 2026.