The 2016 Talenti Brunello di Montalcino is a notable example of Sangiovese Grosso from Tuscany, Italy. This red wine, produced by Talenti, has garnered attention from various professional reviewers, earning high praise and impressive scores.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it 94 points, with Monica Larner describing it as "a balanced and symmetrical wine with bright red cherry on the one hand and pretty spice and balsam herb on the other." She highlights its dark color saturation and ruby highlights, noting its ample Sangiovese acidity that contributes to its buoyant style. The wine ages in both tonneau and botte for 30 months.
James Suckling gave it a 93-point score, appreciating its "cherry, orange-peel and walnut aromas and flavors." He describes it as medium-to-full-bodied with chewy tannins and a walnut and berry aftertaste, recommending to try it after 2022 to allow it to soften and come together.
Vinous also rated it 94 points, with Eric Guido noting its "striking display of balsamic-tinged cherry and autumnal spice with a twist of sour citrus." He commends its silky and pliant texture, as well as its sweet and sour element, enhanced by brisk acids and rounded tannins. Guido considers this wine one of the best values in age-worthy Brunello.
Wine Spectator gave it an excellent 95 points, praising its "macerated cherry, plum and licorice flavors, framed by accents of iron, tea, and wild herbs." The wine is described as supple and round, with a dense matrix of tannins enforcing the finish. It shows fine overall balance and is expected to be at its best from 2025 through 2045.
Wine Enthusiast provided a standout review with a 97-point score, highlighting its "enticing aromas of menthol, graphite, rose and forest floor." The full-bodied palate features ripe Marasca cherry, licorice, mint, and vanilla before a coffee-bean finish. The wine's firm, polished tannins and fresh acidity provide robust support.
Decanter rated it 94 points, noting the diversity of Talenti’s vineyards. The 2016 vintage is described as less immediately expressive but with discreet charms, featuring an earthy, nutty undertone beneath spiced red fruit, and demonstrating Sangiovese’s weightlessness and tactile powdery tannins.
Lastly, Jeb Dunnuck gave it a 91-point score, mentioning its aromas of dried red cherry, tobacco, licorice, cedar, and baked earth. He describes the palate as approachable and silky, with flavors of black plum, balsamic, and black tea, making it suitable for early drinking or over the next several years.
In summary, the 2016 Talenti Brunello di Montalcino is a well-regarded wine with a balanced profile, notable acidity, and a range of complex flavors, making it a fine choice for both immediate enjoyment and long-term aging.
