2019
Carpineto Brunello di Montalcino Riserva (Red) 2019 - 94Surprisingly semi-opaque garnet. Slightly reduced on the nose. On the palate, Carpineto's dark, closed, black inky minerality shines once again. This is a wine that doesn't have time for silly things like fruit. It's putting all its energy into being serious, with extremely well-bred tannins, knife-edge acidity, and structure that would put a Roman architect to shame. Concentrated without feeling soupy, acidic, dark and powerful. Tannins on the finish have a lasting minerality and power that is just right, continuing that haughty depth. It reminds me of Gordon from Thomas the Tank Engine - this is a thoroughly no-nonsense wine, that is easy to dislike, but ultimately does a wonderful job. Shudderingly good. I'm impresed.
Tasted November 20242018
Carpineto Brunello di Montalcino Riserva (Red) 2018 - 92Tar, violets, slightly burnt black coffee. A little clumsy and one-dimensional on the nose. Herbal verging on medicinal spice on the palate. Nice balance, good weight - really grows on me. Not a cherry fruit bumb like many of the wines, instead relying on silky texture and softly-spoken power. Delicate, ethereal - but therefore either perfectly ready to drink now, or so closed that it needs years. Either way, yeah I'd finish the glass.
Tasted November 2023