Brunello Castelgiocondo 2009

Dark red. Superripe red cherry and sweet spicy plum jam on the enticing nose. Then smooth and ripe in the mouth, showing outstanding density to the ripe red cherry, plum liqueur and savory herbal flavors. Finishes smooth and long, with a trace of alcoholic heat; the tannins are much smoother and more refined than in some past vintages of this bottling. An extremely successful Castelgiocondo that will appeal most to those who prefer bigger, softer-styled wines. Very well done.

Score: 91

Ian D'Agata, Vinous.com 01 July 2014

The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta di Castelgiocondo opens to good color and concentration with aromas of prune and black fruit. The wine also presents evolved tones of dried tobacco and bresaola that make it feel slightly older than it really is. The expert use of wood (the wine ages in barrel for 36 months) is of special note: It has successfully added much of the tannic structure and intensity that generally lacks in 2009 Brunello. Drink: 2017-2022. Frescobaldi’s stunning Tenuta di Castelgiocondo is one of the most beautiful estates in Montalcino. A romantically aged stone castle occupies a panoramic position on the crest of a hill and vineyards spill downwards, cut sharply from thick oak forests and shrubs, toward the endless expanse of Maremma and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Although the house style had veered toward more nuanced and elegant expressions in recent years, the 2009 Brunello takes us back to the signature opulence and power that cemented the winery’s reputation in international markets years ago.

Score: 90

Monica Larner, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2017-2022 01 February 2014