Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova 2010 (6x75cl)
Casanova di Neri was founded in 1971. It is now one of Montalcino’s, and indeed Italy’s, most admired producers. The family-owned and run estate is led by Giacomo Neri. The estate was catapulted into the limelight in 2006 when Wine Spectator named their Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova 2001 the World’s #1 Wine, calling it “one of the best examples of the recent winemaking renaissance in Tuscany”.
Casanova di Neri has only 63 hectares of vines, divided into seven vineyards, of which Cerretalto is one. Casanova di Neri is famous for its range of opulent and powerful Brunellos. But it is especially prized for its two exclusive and small production special cuvées: Tenuta Nuova and Cerretalto. Both these wines are 100% Sangiovese Grosso and hence are Brunello di Montalcino (and not ‘Super Tuscans). Both wines are aged in oak for 36 months (and then in bottle for a further 12 for Tenuta Nuova, and 24 for Cerretalto).
This is a gorgeous wine. The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is just as impressive now as when I first tasted it three years ago. The only edit I would make to my original 100-point review is an extension to the drinking window. The bouquet is absolutely seamless, yet it shows pencil-point precision with dark fruit that flows into spice, tobacco and crushed mineral. The wine's aromatic intensity is forthright and compelling, as is the polished and fine nature of the mouthfeel. This is a cellar keeper.
Drinking Window: 2018 - 2045
Reviewer Name: Monica Larner
Review Date: 28th February 2018
This is very muscular for the vintage. It shows lots of stones, dark fruits and hints of tar. Full body, firm tannins and a chewy texture. Ripe and rich, but shows tension and intensity. This is racy and structured. Tannic now but will show its greatness in 2018. As it should be from one of the masters, but the new hand of his son Giovanni Neri is showing through with a touch more finesse.