The cycling-mad Paolo Bianchini only uses Slavonian oak on his Brunello, keeping his barriques for his Sant’Antimo. This benefited from the inclusion of the old vine Pianrosso fruit in 2009 and it’s very impressive. Structured, sensitively oaked and sweet, with silky tannins, chalky acidity and a hint of wild Mediterranean herbs. It carries its alcohol with ease.
May 2014