VAL DI SUGA 'VIGNA SPUNTALI' BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2016

Vintage Report

The 2016 vintage started out with a large amount of precipitation from January through February, which helped to build water reserves. March was cooler than normal, with budbreak starting around the middle of the month, leading  into a temperate yet dry April. However, water reserves from the winter months maintained homogenous growth throughout.

The end of April into May was rainy followed by June, which continued to be  wet yet more in line with an average year. Luckily, temperatures were cooler than usual, which slowed growth of the vines. Combined with good ventilation (for both northern and southern slopes), this mix kept the production of rot at bay. Ultimately, these conditions were the key to balancing the warm and dry summer months. Warm but never hot, 2016 is often described as having very even temperatures and no dramatic swings, other than the strong diurnal shifts between day and night, which helped in the healthy maturation of fruit. The autumn months and into harvest continued this theme, with temperate and dry conditions.

• • Harvest Date(s): October 03, 2016

Tasting highlights:

• Ripe cherry, dark plum, and rose petals
• Earthy notes of leather, tobacco, and herbs
• Balanced acidity and refined tannins with a long, elegant finish

Wine Spectator – 95 Points

Wine Enthusiast – 95 Points

Jeb Dunnuck – 96 Points