Sassetti Livio Pertimali Brunello di Montalcino 2018 (750ML)

95 VM / 95 WE / 95 FS / 94+ JD / 93 WS

Depths of dark, balsamic-tinged black cherry, plum sauce and autumnal spice make the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino impossible to ignore. This is velvety to the core, nearly opulent in feel, with a dense wave of ripe red fruits complemented by nuances of sweet lavender and tobacco. It leaves the palate clenched with fine tannins and primary concentration, creating a classic sensation that transcends the vintage. Nearly a minute goes by, and hints of cocoa and sweet herbs continue to resonate. Wow! Production at the Pertimali estate was down by 20% due to the spring frost, and the decision was made to place all of the juice usually intended for the Riserva into the straight Brunello, the result being one of the top wines of the vintage.-Eric Guido, Vinous Media

The nose is fruity and fizzy, like cherry cola, with roots and mixed herbs bringing a welcome savory element. The palate is sweet and juicy with cherries, but balance comes from an undertone of dark chocolate, before the nose's lightly medicinal quality emerges again. Acidity positively fizzes around powerful tannins. — Danielle Callegari, Wine Enthusiast

Rich ruby with a rich garnet edge. Opens on the nose with emphatically ripe notes, pickled cherries and dried plums, plus lots of molasses, seems like a Brunello from days gone by. Blossom on the palate then rich, lots of ripe fruit, opens with hearty, grippy tannins, lots of power, delicately bitter finish. - OK/SS, Falstaff

Rich with compact and velvety layers, the 2018 Brunello Di Montalcino offers fleshy aromas of fig, black licorice, mocha, and roasted sage. It is full-bodied and displays more freshness and transparency on the palate, although it remains fully ripe, with black cherry, plum, turned soil, and macerated violets. It has full and present ripe tannins, a hint of crushed rock, and a saline, savory finish. With its liqueur-like richness throughout, this is a fantastic expression, but it needs a couple of years in the cellar before drinking over the following 10.-Audrey Frick, JebDunnuck

Ripe and juicy, this red reveals plum, cherry, earth, tobacco and menthol aromas and flavors. Well-structured, delivering dense, dusty tannins and ample fruit to match, with a long, complex finish. Best from 2025 through 2042. 4,000 cases made, 1,250 cases imported.-Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator