2012 Marroneto, Brunello di Montalcino, Madonna Grazie

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Alessandro Mori is the Sangiovese whisperer: l'uomo che sussurrava il Sangiovese. I need to say it in Italian, too, because it sounds so beautiful. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Madonna Delle Grazie is a phenomenal wine that speaks so highly of the potential of the mighty Tuscan grape, Sangiovese. This wine mirrors all the greatest attributes of the 100-point 2010 edition. Most significantly, it delivers profound purity and a most authentic varietal voice that sings both the high notes and the bass-baritone. First you have the wine's dark ruby appearance that is brilliant and vibrant but beautifully concentrated. Then you have the multilayered bouquet that skillfully presents ethereal notes of wild berry and grilled herb on first nose. Those lighter tones lift gracefully to reveal substantial aromas of dark fruit, spice, tobacco and white truffle that form the wine's lasting aromatic core. The mouthfeel is feather light in texture, but don't underestimate its power or persistence. This is a true gem of Italian enology and sadly only 6,200 bottles were made.