2016 Il Marroneto 'Madonna delle Grazie' Brunello di Montalcino

100 Points - Monica Larner, Wine Advocate

“There it is: that Il Marroneto magic. To my palate, Alessandro Mori's 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Madonna delle Grazie best captures the soaring spirit and ambition of Brunello, made in its purest and most naked form. This vintage is a twin sibling to the 2010 that I awarded a perfect score. This wine unfolds to show deep complexity up front with buoyant and jovial red fruit at its core. I know that the laser-sharp purity of the fruit will soften, leading to more nuanced and finessed tones of underbrush, lilac, iron ore and candied orange peel over the next five years. It vibrates with electric energy and charm. Reviewed Dec 2020. Drink 2024-2050.”

99 Points - Eric Guido, Vinous

“The magic of the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Madonna delle Grazie is firmly on display as it slowly opens like a cedar spice box of treasures, with incense, cloves, dried herbs, cherries and mint. It's velvety-smooth, lifted by vibrant acidity, with a potent wave of ripe wild berry fruits. The 2016 holds its power in reserve, currently kept in check by a wall of dusty tannins and a bitter tinge of sour cherry. What a darling. Bury your bottles deep. This is pure magic. The 2016 is flirting with perfection and may one day deserve a 100-point score. Drink 2026-2042. (Original score 99+.)”

98 Points - Michaela Morris, Decanter

“Trying Il Marroneto's various lots from cask is a fascinating exercise. They are all similarly located at high altitude, on coarse sand of marine origin and predominantly north facing. While they demonstrate subtle differences, Madonna delle Grazie's distinct character often merits a separate bottling - as evidenced by the 2016. Aromas take on the darkest, most heady purple flowers tangled up in allspice and smoky incense. It is muscular in frame with firm tannins that stick and grip and don't let go, although it's never brawny, heavy or hard-edged. Currently a mouthful of stones, it reveals a balsamic core and tangy salted plum on the finish. Tasted Mar 2021. Drink 2025-2042.”