Organically farmed, the Le Chiuse vineyards are part of the holdings of the legendary Biondi-Santi family. Current owner, Simonetta Valiani, is the great granddaughter of Ferrucio Biondi-Santi and, until 1990, rented the vineyards to the late grate Franco Biondi-Santi for the crafting of their legendary riservas. Since 1992, Simonetta, together with her husband Nicolo Magnelli and son Lorenzo Magnelli craft some of the most stunning Brunello in Montalcino.
Lorenzo Magnelli chose from 2010 to release his Riserva bottlings only 10 years after each vintage (instead of the usual 6) to present the true essence of Riserva that can only be wrought by time. The 2012 offers classic aromas of ripe berry, blue flowers and forest floor. The elegant palate encompasses ripe cherry, orange peel, liquorice, crushed herbs and a hint of tobacco. Soft, silky tannins are balanced by a remarkable freshness on the lingering, meditative finish.
Kerin O’Keefe – 98 points / Raffaele Vecchione – 95 points
