Andrea Costanti’s 2010 Brunello di Montalcino is fabulous. The purity and translucence of Sangiovese comes through beautifully as the wine opens up. Refined, pedigreed and exceptionally beautiful, the Costanti pretty much embodies what 2010 Brunello di Montalcino is all about. Reference-point Brunello. It’s as simple as that.

Costanti’s 2010 truly lives up to the hype of this highly touted vintage. Warm but not extreme, it was defined by cool nights that preserved succulent acidity and decisive aromas. Here, the expressive nose shows crushed earth, sweet herbs and a tangle of dark berries. Yet the palate is still exceptionally youthful and dense with imposing, tightly wound tannin that will unfold slowly. It will glide gracefully to the denomination's 75th anniversary. Drinking Window: 2022 - 2042
Tasted by: Michaela Morris (at Costanti's Colle a Matrichese estate, 29 Aug 2017)
Part of The best Brunello di Montalcino wines: Expert reviews

Rich, with a smooth texture and lively structure supporting the mulled cherry, licorice, leather and tobacco flavors. This firms up – a good sign in a young red, with a lingering finish of tobacco and spice. Best from 2018 through 2029. 2,500 cases made. — BS