Possibly our favorite 2015 Brunello that’s severely underrated. We also secured a small stash of the equally exotic 2016 that scored 98+ points, but went long on their 2015 because we like it just as much. How can we resist a 94-pointer Jeb Dunnuck called “pure class” from one of the best vintages EVER? Especially at nearly half off.

Remember, this is a vintage called “picture-perfect” by Wine Advocate reporting “I remember the 2015 vintage in Tuscany through a photographer’s lens. Each snapshot I carry in my memory recalls the sheer perfection… Ask anyone who farmed Sangiovese that year. They will tell you: Fruit has never been more beautiful than it was in the picture-perfect 2015 vintage.”

And now, let’s explore this hidden gem!

Antonio Galloni’s Vinous points out that “The estate was bought by Domenico Berni, nicknamed Belfo, in the 1970s (he was the fattore or main farmhand of Villa a Tolli, Poggio Salvi and others) with the objective to make wine for home use. He started out with 0.5 hectares but as everyone told him his wine was too good to be limited to family consumption, he began selling some with the 1978 vintage.”

Fast forward a bit: “Since 2010 they have been farming a small plot of vines at the top of the Montosoli hill that has been replanted to Sangiovese. The estate’s goal is to make a single vineyard or a Brunello selection from this very prestigious site, apparently blessed with a slightly warmer microclimate than the estate’s other sites… Pietroso’s wines have improved immeasurably over the last decade.”

Serious Brunello drinkers know the style typically falls into one of two camps - modern or traditional. And this, to us, is the ultimate bridge between the two. Thanks to the upfront personality of the extraordinary year, it’s quite opulent and flashy, with a nice ripeness. Still, it offers extraordinary complexity, with a savory side and sneaky tannins, reminding us of classics like Biondi Santi with its exotic perfume of black cherries dusted with cocoa powder. The liveliness and traction lead to a glorious finish that continually unfolds with a potpourri of floral and spicy nuances. Approachable at this youthful stage, it will sing with the wildest of foodstuffs, be it mushrooms or game or cheeses and charcuterie.

But you know what’s even wilder? 44% off on a 94 pointer. Once $85, now $48, INSANE.

94 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

“Terrific notes of black cherries, currants, chocolate, and tobacco leaf nuances all emerge from the 2015 Brunello di Montalcino. This is pure class, offering medium to full-bodied richness, a focused, elegant texture, polished tannins, and a great finish. This classic, balanced beauty will evolve for 15-20 years. Drink 2020-2040.”