Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino 2017

Bright and intense red color. To the nose, the first impact is ethereal and citrusy. As it opens up, notes of red fruits become evident – particularly cherry, raspberry and black cherry. In the palate the generosity of vintage 2017 becomes evident: the tannins are soft and silky, balanced by a subdued acidity, which perfectly embodies the energy of this sunny vintage. The ending is long and elegant, fresh and harmonious.

Wine Spectator: 93
This fleshy red is introduced by graphite, mint and wild herb aromas, with plum and cherry flavors as the main themes and earth, tobacco and underbrush notes in supporting roles. Balanced, ending in a savory aftertaste. Best from 2025 through 2043.

Wine Advocate: 94
The Casanova di Neri 2017 Brunello di Montalcino delivers unexpected grace and a floral profile that is not common to find in this scorching-hot and dry vintage. In faithful Casanova di Neri fashion, the wine is bold and dark in appearance, and although the bouquet is dominated by purple and black fruits, there is a brief interlude of fresh garden rose or lilac. That little moment changes up the momentum of this wine in a most positive way by allowing for a harmony of low tones and high tones that are well matched here. The wine is robust, structured and velvety to the palate, but ultimately this expression is far more delicate than I would have ever expected for a 2017 Brunello. This is a nice surprise.

Wine Advocate: 94

The Casanova di Neri 2017 Brunello di Montalcino delivers unexpected grace and a floral profile that is not common to find in this scorching-hot and dry vintage. In faithful Casanova di Neri fashion, the wine is bold and dark in appearance, and although the bouquet is dominated by purple and black fruits, there is a brief interlude of fresh garden rose or lilac. That little moment changes up the momentum of this wine in a most positive way by allowing for a harmony of low tones and high tones that are well matched here. The wine is robust, structured and velvety to the palate, but ultimately this expression is far more delicate than I would have ever expected for a 2017 Brunello. This is a nice surprise.

Decanter: 91
Casanova di Neri’s ‘white label’ is crafted from the estate’s vineyards in Montalcino’s northeast. The 2017 edition also sees grapes from Cerretalto included, which is usually bottled separately. It emerges slowly, giving scents of violets, yellow broom and mint. The palate is currently a bit angular but the core reaches deep. It hints promisingly at cherry, clay, iron and graphite. An intriguing, intricate expression with noteworthy freshness. Give this a year to flesh out. Drinking Window 2023 - 2028.

Decanter: 91

Casanova di Neri’s ‘white label’ is crafted from the estate’s vineyards in Montalcino’s northeast. The 2017 edition also sees grapes from Cerretalto included, which is usually bottled separately. It emerges slowly, giving scents of violets, yellow broom and mint. The palate is currently a bit angular but the core reaches deep. It hints promisingly at cherry, clay, iron and graphite. An intriguing, intricate expression with noteworthy freshness. Give this a year to flesh out. Drinking Window 2023 - 2028.

James Suckling: 91
A firm and chewy 2017 that is slightly austere but still provides a lively and dark-fruited palate. Medium to full body.