Brunello di Montalcino Fornace DOCG 2015 Ragnaie

Saturated, dark garnet in color and elegant in appearance, the Le Ragnaie 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Fornace makes a terrific first impression that is duly reinforced by the sheer depth and intensity of its aromas. The Fornace personality is svelte, sophisticated and noble. This wine shies back on banal primary aromas of red and purple fruit. Instead, it composes a pretty symphony of spice, balsam herb and camphor ash. The bouquet comes across as fluid and layered. The wine certainly benefits when the bottle is opened a few hours prior. This expression shows a bold, medium-weight texture, but like the other 2015 releases from Le Ragnaie, I notice less pinch or bite from the acidity. This helps the wine to be absolutely approachable now or within the next 10 years. Fruit comes from a vineyard positioned high in the hills of Castelnuovo dell'Abate. Only 3,500 bottles were made, and the wine will go to market in February 2020.

The exciting news from Le Ragnaie is the release of a new wine, made entirely with fruit from Montosoli. Otherwise, about half of the estate vineyards are located in the higher-elevation parts of the appellation. These locations usually show lots of acidic freshness, but you get less of that in this warm 2015 vintage. This estate has been farming organically sine 2005.

Lots of ripe-berry, white-pepper and sliced-mushroom character. Full body, round and ripe tannins and a deep and intense palate. Shows layers of fruit and structure. From organically grown grapes. Better after 2022.

Compelling, featuring cherry, raspberry, plum, loamy earth and mineral aromas and flavors. Plush, harmonious and vibrant, with a long, complex finish. Combines all the ripe, sweet fruit of the 2015 vintage with terrific focus. Best from 2022 through 2040. 315 cases made.

The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Fornace is laced remarkably pretty display of zesty bright cherry, offset by savory herbs and spice, as dusty minerals and dried florals add further depths. On the palate, silky textures give way to ripe cherry and spice, as saline-minerals and juicy acids add tension, while a hint of fine tannins slowly saturate, yet the 2015 never loses its vibrant persona. The finish is long, resonating with n dried cherry and cranberry over a coating of mineral-laced tannins. This is such a precise Brunello. I’m a huge fan.