Le Gode, Vigna Montosoli, Brunello Di Montalcino, 2016 - Magnum

Owned and run by the Ripaccioli family for 56 years, this rising star practices classic Montalcino traditionalism with a minimalist approach to winemaking. They produce quintessential Brunello on a small scale in the north on Montosoli hill, which is known for its high altitude and silt clay and marl soil dotted with limestone and gravel. The production from this area is synonymous with sumptuously smooth and elegant wines, delicate minerality, longevity and striking aromatics.
Though no official classification system is in place, Montosoli is regarded as a Grand Cru area of Montalcino. Le Gode’s minimal intervention methodology contributes to the pure expression of Sangiovese from this iconic terroir and delivers a resulting freshness that lends structure and finesse. Their Brunello di Montalcinos are aged in Slavonian oak for three years and then six months in French oak before spending up to 8 months in bottle. The Ripaccioli family recommends a glass of this before any important decision, a recommendation we take very seriously!
While the straight Brunello di Montalcino has a somewhat jovial and immediate feel, the 2016 Vigna Montosoli takes things to a darker and much more serious place. Black earth, minerals, tar and licorice slowly give way to crushed cherries and balsamic spice. It’s velvety and deeply textural, ushering in a compact and almost-weighty display of ripe primary fruits, yet all perfectly framed by brilliant acids which maintain balance. There’s a lovely inner sweetness here, that I can’t wait to experience once its grippy tannins resolve. The 2016 finishes on structure, further complicated by a coating of concentrated tart wild berries and hints of licorice. 94pts Eric Guido, Vinous
Rich and opulent aromas of crushed berries, meat, earth and fresh flowers. It’s full-bodied and dense with intense, ripe tannins, as well as wild-fruit character. Wet-earth and crushed-tile undertones. Extremely long and flavorful. Give it time to open and mellow. Great single-vineyard wine. Try after 2023. 96pts James Suckling