Azienda LisiniBrunello di Montalcino 2016

The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino excites the senses with a wonderfully pure and fruity display of wild strawberries, woodland herbs, wet stone and flowery undergrowth. Both savory and sweet, the textures are like silk, with waves of ripe red fruits and spices which give way to salty minerals, licorice, hints of black tea and a coating of fine tannin. While youthfully structured, there’s a juicy freshness to be found throughout, creating harmonious balance and symmetry that makes the 2016 Lisini so easy to like already. That said, the best is yet to come.

-- Eric Guido

Lisini is one of Montalcino’s oldest estates and has been owned by the Lisini-Clementi family since the 16th century. Today, it is run by Ludovica Lisini and her cousins Carlo and Lorenzo. After a few moments in the glass, liquorice, chocolate and tobacco begin to permeate. Full yet deftly balanced, layers of grainy tannins are an equal match for the dense, dark fruit. Though ageing is in large oak casks, there is a suggestion of wood with sweet vanillin and mint. I suspect a couple more years in bottle will bring everything into exquisite cohesion.

Drinking Window 2023 - 2038

This is medium-to full-bodied, yet very rich, with lots of sandalwood, lavender, fresh blackberries and crushed cloves. More citrus peel on the palate. Lemon peel and blackberries. Fine tannins and a fresh, tangy finish. Alcohol comes out at the end. Drink after 2022.