CANTINA DI MONTALCINO Brunello di Montalcino `Palazzo Comunale` 2004 The strength of this producer lies in its ability to draw fruit from all over the zone, something that enables the power of wines from the south to be moderated by the elegance and aromatics found in wines from the north of the zone. The wines have a freshness allied to the power and structure typical of good Brunello. The Cantina di Montalcino was founded in 1975 and was acquired by the cooperative Cantine Leonardo in 1990. There are ninety associate growers whose combined vineyards cover 108 hectares. The vineyards are located in a hilly area in the commune of Montalcino. 2004 is considered to be one of the best ever Montalcino vintages with abundant spring rainfall boosting the soil.s water reserves. Summer was long, dry and hot and the sunny, breezy weather continued right up until picking in October. Maceration on the skins took place during fermentation and lasted approximately 15-20 days, together with frequent, gentle pumping over. The fermentation temperature was between 30-32°C. Controlling the temperature encouraged the extraction of good colour and soft, ripe tannins. The wine was matured in Slovenian oak casks for three years before bottling. Good depth of purple/ruby colour, with perfumes of plums and blackberries on the nose, combined with a savoury, lightly spiced note. On the palate it is full-bodied, with flavours in youth of blackberries and autumnal soft fruit offset by rounded tannins and the characteristic solid structure of good Brunello. Good length on the finish with a touch of savoury spice. GOLD - Sommelier Wine Awards 2010 Vintage 2004 Grape varieties 100% Sangiovese Region Montalcino Winemaker Riccardo Pucci Closure Cork Alcohol (ABV) 13% Bottle Sizes 150cl, 75cl, 37.5cl Find this wine at www.winestore.co.uk Price: £38.63 (Including VAT at 20%)