Harvested between the end of September and beginning of October, Altesino’s Montosoli bottling was reduced by 50% due to a strict selection of grapes. The nose divulges appealing vanilla, cedar and truffle nuances which meld beautifully with sweet forest berry flavours. Fine-grained tannins are still tight and firm, corseting the admirably concentrated core. It will show more of its charms with further bottle age. Maturation is in 30hl Slavonian and Allier oak casks.

The word "Vigna" has been added to the official name of this wine to underline work in the appellation meant to focus on single-vineyard designates. The Altesino 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Montosoli comes from a unique growing site with some of the best exposures from hillside vineyards. This wine shows a slightly dark hue with added concentration and depth. I am delighted by the bouquet that reveals dark cherry, blue flower, crushed stone and grilled herb. There is sweet toast and spice at the back. This is one of the more complete and age-worthy wines from the 2018 vintage. However, my biggest hesitation is the very high 15% alcohol content of this 13,000-bottle release.