Frescobaldi - Tenuta Castelgiocondo : Ripe al Convento 2013

The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Ripe Al Convento seems to be maturing at a quickened pace. It already shows some mild evolution with dimmed intensity on the primary fruit. Spice, tar, cured tobacco and grilled herb take center stage. This riserva opens to a dark garnet color and thick, soft textural richness that sits firmly on the palate. The wine is succulent and generous in terms of mouthfeel. All riserva Brunellos see one extra year of aging compared to the annata expressions. I would suggest drinking this wine within the next decade.

Broad and savory, with aromas and flavors of Mediterranean macchia and iron accenting the core of cherry and plum fruit. Shows an oak element of vanilla, which integrates after a few hours of aeration. Finishes firm and muscular. Best from 2022 through 2042. 100 cases imported.

Castelgiocondo's Ripe al Convento vineyard sits at the same altitude and on similar soil as the Luce della Vite site. However, as it is southeast-facing it's less exposed to the afternoon sun. The outcome is a more austere, tense expression with herbal tea-leaf and violet notes. It's still shut down with abundant tannins, though they are long and finely powdered. Salty plum and thyme lurk in the background and tangy acidity cleanses the palate. A class act.

This has a regal feel with a wealth of ripe blueberries and a complex array of new leather, warm earth, terracotta and spice. The palate has concentration and depth with assertive, fine and long tannins delivering a long, unwavering impression on the palate, bathed in ripe red and dark-fruit flavors. Drink or hold.

Bright red. Aromas and flavors of minerals, red cherry, raspberry and underbrush. Juicy and linear, with a very pure mouthfeel and an enticing floral lift on the rising, youthfully chewy but polished finish. Not a blockbuster 2013 but sleek and refined in keeping with the year. Cellar this elegant beauty for another three to four years to have it develop further complexity.