2017 Rodolfo Cosimi Terra Rossa Brunello

Let's cut to the chase. What awaits is undoubtedly something special: a downright stupendous offer on one of the world’s most exalted, high-echelon wines – Brunello.

This is the majesty and might of Italian Sangiovese – the stately standard-bearer, a civic icon of Tuscany, where medieval castles, grand rolling estates, and a richness of both style and proprietors reign supreme. And, of course, there’s the main drawcard – longevity.

Rodolfo Cosimi – like most decorated winemakers – is a unique character. Part contrarian, part classicist, his vineyards sit on the southern hills above Montalcino. He rages against the ‘marketing machine’ of organics, yet his process is every bit the antiquated minimalist’s dream. Hand-picked. Hand-reared. Made in the fashionably old-school way, with little modernity interfering.

"The results," he says, "can be felt in the bottle."

When Rodolfo’s father planted these vines in 1971, Brunello had fewer than 20 producers. Now? That number has increased tenfold.

2017 Brunello has always been an insider’s vintage.

While you wait a generation for 2016 or 2019 to tame itself, 2017 is already expressive, fragrant, and unbelievably delicious right now.

From the very first pour, this Brunello announces itself as something special. Ruby at its core, it brims with aromas of ripe red berries, cocoa powder, and a beautiful dusting of herbs. A palate of spiced plums, dark chocolate, and a hint of tobacco unfolds into a lift of youthful florals on the finish – woven with the grainy tannic grip of a classic Brunello. One that will evolve beautifully over the next decade.