The nose is refreshing and youthful, with intriguing notes of of raspberry and strawberry, very complex and intense, showing a well-defined hint of white pepper. The entrance is voluptuous with sweet pure fruit. The tannins are easily detectable but velvety and beautifully integrated. It is a harmonious and gentle wine, immediately impressive, yet with structure and framework to insure a long life in the cellar.
Angelo Gaja bought a controlling interest in the Pieve Santa Restituta in 1994. All his energy and expertise have been brought to bear on this magnificent estate with restoration of the namesake 4th century church and construction of the state of the art cellars completed in 2005.
The impressive, modern winery is surrounded by 40 acres of beautiful vineyards all at some 1100 feet above sea level with a gentle south west exposure. Pieve Santa Restituta's Brunello di Montalcino is produced from a selection of estate-grown grapes from the four non-contiguous vineyards with vines averaging 25 years of age. 2016 was an outstanding vintage in Montalcino.
Each vineyard parcel underwent separate fermentation and maceration in stainless steel tanks for approximately three weeks. Afterwards the wines were blended together prior to aging in oak casks for 24 months. This wine has a deep ruby color and offers an expressive aroma of wildflowers, ripe cherry and notes of balsamic. It's full-bodied with silky tannins and flavors of fresh plums, cherries and well-integrated oak. The finish is long and lingering. Drinks beautifully now with aeration and will cellar exceptionally for 8-10 years.
