Casanova di Neri, Brunello di Montalcino, Tenuta Nuova 2010

The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova from Casanova di Neri opens with a gorgeous blast of dark fruit, mocha, spice and new leather. The first impression is quite positive, but then the wine loses its persistence on the mid-palate and finish. It’s as if the wine is hollow; there just isn’t a whole lot of depth. The tannins also show a distinct element of astringency and torrefaction, like coffee beans that have been over-roasted. Time in the glass only brings out these qualities further. To be sure, these shortcomings are in some ways quite subtle, but it is precisely the details that separate the excellent from the truly great. Tasting some of the other wines made in a similar style only highlights the areas where the Tenuta Nuova is lacking. The 2010 isn’t a bad wine, but it could have been something more.

• Drinking Window: 2016 - 2025
• Reviewer Name: Antonio Galloni
• Review Date: December 2015