2008 Redux: 1 Year Later

~ The Cellars of Pian delle Vigne ~

It's been almost a year since my report on 2008 Brunello was published and while I'm beginning to prepare a similar report on their 2009 brethren,  I figured it would be a good time to re-visit a few of these and see what effect a year in bottle has had on them. 

 

The Pian delle Vigne estate is located about 6 kilometers south of Montalcino and is a sprawling 650 acres.  However, only about 10% of the area is planted to vine.  In my tastings last year, I noted that this wine was a dark garnet color and displayed more tannin structure than the average 2008 in my report.  Given that,  this recent example seems to be advancing rapidly. 

 

In the glass, the 2008 Pian delle Vigne Brunello is a medium ruby with lighter brick red tones toward the rim.  The color has advanced noticeably since last year.  The aroma is captivating. Warm, crushed red cherries mix with dusty exotic indian spices and there is a dried flower undertone to the entire package. I love how this smells.  On the palate, the wine is classy with a medium bodied core of red cherry fruit coupled with dried herbs and warmed earth. The tannins have faded substantially and the balance precise with a sense of maturity about it.  I really enjoyed this and it paired perfectly with chicken all Milanese.  90 points.  About $45-50.  Drink now.

  

~ Grandi Vini - Antinori Pian delle Vigne Brunello ~

 

The next wine we decided to re-visit was the 2008 Tenuta Fanti Brunello.  Since my earlier interview with Elisa Fanti confirmed the change in barrel aging regimen for the estate, I was curious to see how the wine compared to my earlier tasting. 

~ The Entrance to Tenuta Fanti ~

The 2008 is a medium ruby colored Brunello with trace hints of violet in the color.  Immediately you are struck by the nose of this wine and yet again, I am amazed at the aromatics displayed in the 2008 vintage - clearly a hallmark if the year worth noting.  There are expressive notes of freshly picked flowers, a hint of menthol and a trace of mineral that support the bright notes of red berry fruit.    

 

On the palate, the wine is fresh and lively with notes of berry, soft suede, and spices.  The tannins have settled down somewhat since my last tasting and as a result, the finish of the wine extends ever so slightly.  I really enjoyed this wine and I appreciate the change in direction that Fanti made regarding their barrel aging.  It will be interesting to watch this wine evolve.  It's fast becoming one of my favorites from the vintage.  91 points, and a good value around $40. 

~ Pretty Brunello from Tenuta Fanti in 2008 ~

Salute!