The hottest property in Montalcino at the moment, metaphorically speaking, is Le Ragnaie. It is also the region’s highest, located in the eponymous area that was named after the traditional bird-catching nets historically used there (owing to their resemblance to spider’s webs – spider being “Ragno” in Italian.)
Owner and winemaker Riccardo Campinoti has finally been getting the plaudits he deserves for his wonderfully traditional, transparent Brunellos. His most recent offerings, from the 2015 vintage, were some of the most highly rated wines in Montalcino when first released last year. Prior to the upcoming launch of the 2016s, we are delighted to offer this parcel of 2015 – shipped at the end of last year and now available for delivery. His regular Brunello blend is a real catch, being one of the vintage’s highest scoring non-Riserva /single vineyard bottlings.
Read MoreWe were totally seduced by his 2015 regular Brunello – not a blockbuster wine, but one we simply love drinking. Smooth, aromatic and bright, this is already a complete charmer but has the balance and depth to age nicely over the next 5+ years. Soothing sweet spice notes, infused with herbs and a salty sapidity, are pierced by crisp, fresh red berry fruits. Complex and harmonious, this exhibits great character and offers single vineyard level quality. 60% of the grapes for this blend come from vines at Le Ragnaie itself, at 550 metres above sea level, the highest vines in Montalcino, complemented by fruit from Ragnaie’s vineyards in Petroso and Castelnuovo dell’Abate. After traditional, long fermentations, the wine is then aged in large used wooden cask for 36 months.
Critical Acclaim
Brunello di Montalcino, Le Ragnaie, 2015
Classic to the core, Le Ragnaie's Brunello di Montalcino lifts from the glass with a savory, layered display of forest berry, offset by smoky minerals, alpine-inspired herbs, dark soil tones, tobacco and a hint of animal musk. On the palate, silky textures flesh out across the senses with notes of ripe cherry, sweet spice and a buzz of bright acids. The finish is long, fresh, and nearly salty, incredibly satisfying, and with energy to burn as pretty red fruits, spice, and sweet inner florals linger long. This may not be a Le Ragnaie for the ages, but it sure is a wonderfully balanced and enjoyable Brunello today that will thrill lovers of Sangiovese. 94 points, Eric Guido, www.vinous.com