The 2019 Canalicchio di Sopra La Casaccia Brunello di Montalcino is a standout Sangiovese from the renowned Tuscany region in Italy. This red wine has been noted for its complexity and depth, receiving high praise from several professional reviewers.
Monica Larner from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate scores it a 97, describing it as "broad, big and driven by balsamic tones, vapor rub, and dried rosemary." She notes the wine's "explosive" nature, with flavors of "spice, toasted coffee, black licorice, cherry cola, and rich cherry." Larner also comments on the wine's tannins, which she describes as "chalky" yet "fine-grained," playing a significant role against the concentrated fruit.
Eric Guido from Vinous gives this vintage a perfect score of 100, calling it "impossible to ignore." He highlights its "earthy and mineral" qualities, with an almost "smoky and animal" nature. Flavors include "dried black cherries, sage, and clove," and he praises its deeply textural and seductive profile. Guido also mentions a "salty flourish" and a "crunchy tinge of blackberry seeds," with fine-grained tannins providing a youthful poise. He concludes that "La Casaccia is a showstopper" and suggests it may be "immortal."
Jeb Dunnuck also gives the wine high marks with a score of 98. He describes it as having a "rich and youthful red/ruby color," with notes of "raspberry liqueur, licorice, toasted sage, and lavender perfume." Dunnuck emphasizes its full-bodied nature, ripe tannins, balanced acidity, and dark mineral accents. He recommends this "remarkable wine" for cellaring and aging, suggesting it will be best enjoyed between 2027 and 2050.
James Suckling provides a slightly lower score of 93, noting the presence of "sweet sour cherries with rose stems and hints of green leaves on the nose." He describes it as having a "medium body with firm, chewy tannins and some juicy fruit," and advises that it will improve with a few more years of aging.
Wine Spectator awards the wine a score of 96, highlighting its "rich and velvety" texture and flavors of "cherry, raspberry, eucalyptus, and juniper." The review mentions a "dense, steely structure" with strong tannins and a "saline, mineral impression" on the aftertaste. The wine is described as "balanced, complex, and long," with an optimal drinking window from 2027 to 2043.
Finally, Decanter gives it a score of 98, noting that it has been produced since the 2015 vintage from 30-year-old vines. The wine is characterized by a "high percentage of brown, magnesium-rich clay," and this 2019 vintage is described as the "most impressive release yet." The review highlights its "sumptuous character and girth," with nuances of "rosemary, thyme, and eucalyptus." It carries its 15% alcohol "with ease and grace," featuring plump fruit, mineral licks, terracotta earthiness, and smooth, velvety tannins.
In summary, the 2019 Canalicchio di Sopra La Casaccia Brunello di Montalcino has received exceptional reviews for its complexity, balance, and aging potential, making it a notable addition to any cellar.