2006 Canalicchio di Sopra Brunello di Montalcino
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Tasting notes
The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino is distinctly savory and intense, with a feral bouquet that blends crushed fall leaves with nuances of menthol, tobacco and balsamic-laced black cherries. It's radiant and densely packed on the palate, enveloping the senses with depths of dark red berry fruit and mineral tones as a wild twang of sour citrus adds gravitas toward the close. This tapers off long and staining, still gently tannic, leaving a pleasantly bitter tinge that pinches at the cheeks. While approachable and enjoyable today, the 2006 still has a great deal more to offer.
Critic scores
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino comes across as austere and closed today, with very little in the way of expression. I imagine the 2006 will remain tightly wound for some time. That said, it shows tons of potential for the future. I did not taste the 2006 as part of this vertical, but it is likely to be at least as unevolved as the straight Brunello.
Good medium red. Bright, tight nose hints at minerals. Less purely about fruit and less high-pitched than the Franco Pacenti Canalicchio, but this very complex wine boasts musky soil tones and captivating minerality. Substantial dusty tannins call for some time in the cellar.
The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino comes across as tightly wound and inward at this stage. With time in the glass the wine's inner perfume gradually comes to life, even if this remains a reticent Brunello within the context of the vintage. Still, it is impossible not to admire the inner sweetness of the fruit and the impeccable polish of the tannins. All this needs is time, maybe a little more than usual in this vintage.