2008 Casanova di Neri, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG “Etichetta Bianca” (White Label) Tuscany, Italy.
A beautifully crafted Brunello, the 2008 White Label from Casanova di Neri gives everything expected of it and more with dynamic fruit intensity, elegantly framed and wonderfully long this is a classic Casanova di Neri no question. The less than thrilling early reporting on the 2008 vintage Brunello have mostly been proven wrong from all I can tell and taste, especially in the offerings from Casanova di Neri and I have found remarkably poised reds with lush tannins and lively flavors, and the big plus is that these are wines that can be enjoyed on release, no waiting required and I believe they will age well for at least 10 years. The 2008 Casanova di Neri White Label starts with a nose of floral and herbal bouquet with hints of mint and leather to go along with dark fruits and mineral spice before a palate of blackberry, cherry and strawberry fruits with a silky plummy texture that gives a full mouth feel without losing any vibrancy. There are touches of blonde tobacco, red spices, licorice and cedar notes adding to the detailed layers in this fine and polished Brunello. This wine shows live and vigor and has a persistent long finish that hints at savory elements and earthiness, but flows with the fruit in perfect harmony.
($58 Est.) 94 Points, grapelive
