99 Point 2018 Brunello from Conti Costanti "lovers of finesse, depth and balance will swoon in delight" (KO'K)
Coming in at position Number 5 on Kerin O’Keefe’s Top Italian Wines of 2022 is the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino from Conti Costanti. In company with some of Italy’s most illustrious wines, this is quite a coup for the estate and we are delighted to have a limited number of cases available today at GBP 240 per case (6*75cl) in bond.
The Constanti family can trace their roots in Montalcino back to the fifteenth century and were instrumental in creating the first wines to be labelled as ‘Brunello’ back in 1870. The current estate covers 25ha of which 12ha are under vine (and 7ha used for Brunello) with vines at an altitude of between 310 and 400m above sea level. The Brunello sees ageing in 30Hl Slavonia oak casks that are up to 15 years old, as well as 5Hl Barriques.
The estate is located on the ridge just to the North of Il Greppo, with the wines showing that similar structure, intensity and savouriness that their neighbours Biondi Santi are also well-known for.
These are wines that require some time to open up, hence O’Keefe’s drinking window opening in 2024 and continuing for at least 15 years, though likely past this as well.
2018 Brunello di Montalcino, Conti Costanti
GBP 240 per case (6*75cl) in bond – 20 cases available
99 points Kerin O’Keefe
Perfumed berry, pine forest, new leather and violet aromas mingle with enticing scents of vineyard dust that segue into underbrush and nutmeg. Linear, lithe and all about elegance, the savory palate has great energy that lifts juicy red cherry, spiced cranberry, star anise and tangy saline notes that linger on the close. Tight but refined tannins and vibrant acidity keep it youthfully tense and impeccably balanced. Those who love power and might could be surprised by its almost ethereal quality, but lovers of finesse, depth and balance will swoon in delight. Drink 2024–2038. Kerin O’Keefe November 2022
Wines offered subject to final confirmation and remaining unsold.
