2016 Altesino Brunello di Montalcino 750 ml

As soon as we tasted the 2016 Altesino Brunello di Montalcino, we cut a check for our entire allocation. And when you taste it, you’ll understand why we didn’t hesitate for a second. 

Altesino’s 2016 Brunello is without a doubt one of the greatest bottles the legendary estate has ever produced. It’s the definition of Brunello class from a vintage that Vinous called “radiance personified,” and its 95+ point score from Parker’s Advocate put it at a height where their single-site Montosoli bottling normally dwells.   

We can’t imagine a red wine lover who won’t want at least a few bottles in their cellar—but those who lay claim will have to do it fast. 

Given the critical raves, given Altesino’s status as a worldwide legend, and given the fact we haven’t offered this Wine Access favorite for three vintages, there’s no way it can last—especially not coming straight from the winery at this fantastic price.

From the very first pour, this Brunello announces itself as something special. Deep garnet in color with a solid youthful rim, it’s got brilliant aromas of wild raspberries, dried cherries, cedar, sweet tobacco, dried sage, and anise shining through. A palate of black fruit, wild berries, licorice, and leather lift to a touch of youthful florality on the finish, all laced with the grainy tannic grip of a classic Brunello. It should evolve beautifully over the next couple decades—so here’s hoping you land some for your cellar. 

In a normal year, the month of March has red wine lovers all over the world ready to pounce on the new vintage of Brunello di Montalcino. 

This is not a normal year. There’s an immeasurable buzz around the 2016s, from a vintage Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate rated 98 points, and Vinous summed up as “Radiance Personified.” The fever is especially high regarding Brunello’s marquee producers—and none enjoys a higher place in the pantheon than Altesino.

Altesino is located in a 14th century palazzo, but it’s a young winegrowing estate by Tuscan standards—it was founded just 50 years ago. Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini acquired it in 2002, and since then, she and her winemaking team of Simone Giunti and Alessandro Ciacci have staked out a permanent position at the apex of the region, with their modern and innovative take on one of Italy’s most beloved denominaziones. 

Sourced from their Altesino, Macina, Pianezzine, and Castelnuovo dell’Abate vineyards, Altesino’s 2016 Brunello di Montalcino pushes this bottling to a level of quality, critical acclaim, and collectibility normally associated with bottles double the price. It’s always one of the great Brunellos, and always represents a fantastic value—but the 2016 is truly one for the ages. We recommend you do what we did: Act fast, without hesitation.