Crafted by Marchesi Frescobaldi, a historic Tuscan family with over 700 years of winemaking heritage, the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino CastelGiocondo DOCG is a pure Sangiovese sourced from the estate’s 152-hectare CastelGiocondo vineyard in Montalcino, located at 250-450 meters elevation on the southwestern slopes. The vineyard’s varied soils—galestro, clay, and Pliocene sands—contribute to the wine’s complexity and structure. Hand-harvested grapes undergo fermentation in stainless steel tanks with frequent pump-overs, followed by 36 months of aging in large Slavonian oak botti and 12 months in bottle to integrate tannins while preserving fruit purity. This traditional approach, emphasizing sustainable viticulture, captures the 2016 vintage’s classic balance of ripeness, acidity, and tannic structure, resulting in a wine of elegance and longevity, reflective of Montalcino’s prestigious terroir.
Tasting Notes
This Brunello displays a vibrant ruby-red hue with aromas of dark cherry, black plum, and rose, accented by hints of spice, tilled earth, and balsamic notes. On the palate, it is full-bodied and harmonious, offering flavors of wild plum, cherry, and licorice, supported by dense yet elegant tannins, balanced acidity, and a long, mineral-driven finish.
Awards and Accolades
The 2016 Frescobaldi Brunello di Montalcino CastelGiocondo earned 95 points from James Suckling, praised for its black-cherry and blackberry aromas with minerals and fresh flowers, firm silky tannins, and lovely finesse. It also received 93 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate for its density and richness, 93 points from Wine Spectator for its macerated fruit and savory palate, and 93 points from Vinous for its complex, structured profile.
Serving and Cellaring
Serve at 16-18°C after one to two hours of decanting to enhance its aromatic complexity. Enjoy now for its vibrant maturity or cellar until 2040 to develop deeper layers of earth, leather, and spice. A distinguished expression of Montalcino’s Brunello tradition.
Technical Details
- Alcohol: 14.5% ABV
- Residual Sugar: <1 g/L
- Closure: Cork
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