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Talenti Brunello di Montalcino 2001
Talenti Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigne del Paretaio 2001 is the most critically acclaimed wine ever produced by Riccardo Talenti’s estate in the southern region of Montalcino close by the village of S.Angelo in Colle. Riccardo, the son of Brunello trailblazer, Pierluigi Talenti, once the chief winemaker at Il Poggione, now has 20ha of vines producing top class and well priced, consistent Brunello di Montalcino as well a very respectable Rosso and an interesting blend, “Talenti” combining Sangiovese, Syrah, Canaiola and Colorino. Its with the Riserva Vigne del Paretaio though that this producer really comes into their own.
The Riserva is only produced in outstanding years. 2001 was a 5 star vintage for Brunello walking off with many international awards. The Riserva wine goes through a heavy grape selection, such low yields from a small site equal a low production and astronomical prices. Don’t expect to pay less than £50/60/$70 for a bottle of the 2001. The wine matures in barrel for a full year longer than the standard Brunello bottling, the Riserva does not really become accessible for a good 6-8 years which means…. *drum roll* its about good to drink now.
Which is what I did.
“Where the hell have you been?” I logged into my emails yesterday to find an angry mob, well, a virtual angry mob, and less angry than slightly miffed. Well, you’ll all be pleased to know I’ve been deathly sick! For about a full month I have been sick with tonsillitis followed by a bout of the flu. Strangely enough the doctor did not prescribe me with copious amounts of wine and it was only this weekend that I could get my eye in once more, and return to my first love, getting blotto.
To mark the occasion I chose the Talenti Brunello, for those of you in the know, Talenti is the name of the Roman suburb I first moved to when I started my Italian escapades. It seemed only fitting that my return from absence should be marked by a wine so exquisite.
This wine was fabulous. Perhaps it was the fact my taste buds had been deprived for so long, or perhaps it was the narcotic mix of Lempsips and Nytol but I can happily award this wine a stonking 94 points. You’re unlikely to come across it, but if you do come across any Talenti Brunello di Montalcino, from decent years, you will find yourself with a 90+ point wine.
Talenti Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigne del Paretaio 2001 – BUY – €65
Intense deep ruby red in the glass with a punchy and fast releasing nose, acres of fruit, dark chocolate, tobacco, blackberries and almost Barolo–esque earthiness are a treat. On the palate the wine is well balanced, firm tannins and a lengthy finish combine. Just Champion. 94 Points
So, I’m back Jack. You can expect regular updates from this point forth, come hell or high water, 5 inches of snow (as we have in London today) or partial lung collapse, I will be here battling for your Italian wine needs. Till next time ( tomorrow, or the mob are round ).
Where can I buy this wine?
The cheapest I could find it was in the States. We drank it all prematurely here 🙁
New York’s finest – De Vino – $80
Leave a Comment
How’ve ya bin?
welcome back sarah…hope to see you in Venice soon…Jil
Thanks fr the reply! Only 1 bottle left
Jill – Your emails are bouncing back at me. Please send new address 🙂
I enjoyed your blog. I recently tried a Palazzo Desti Brunello imported by Terranova (2002). Fairly tannic, with dark berry flavors and hints of coffee… a very good wine.