San Filippo Brunello di Montalcino dei Comunali 2020

“The San Filippo 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is first defined by its brightness and acidic freshness that is dialed-in nicely. Fruit comes from the estate's historic vineyard plot. The wine is angular and sharp on the palate with tart berry flavors, bitter cassis, pink peppercorn and spice. The tannins are on the chalky side, and the wine delivers crisp flavors over a medium-plus finish. I suggest you give this wine more time to mellow out. Production is 15,000 bottles.”

“Dei Comunali brings together various parcels for a snapshot of the San Filippo hamlet. Aromas of spiced dark red cherry and forest floor are focused and precise. Full of vigour and substance, it has confidently extracted tannins which dissolve with a grainy texture and are well absorbed by pulpy red berries. Hints of mint and sweet earth perfume the palate, though the oak veneer still needs integrating. A slight oxidative note suggests this will evolve at a relatively rapid pace.”

“Ripe and balsamic style with macerated violets and some lifted aromas of black cherries. The attack is firm with tight and chalky tannins, crisp acidity and medium to full body. A bit too young at the moment, but both the complexity and integration will increase with time. Best after 2026.”