Wine Advisor
Fuligni, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2004
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Description
Tasting notes
Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni
The 2004 Brunello di Montalcino is simply awesome in the way it marries a gorgeous expression of ripe, dark fruit and a classic sense of structure. A rich, enveloping wine, it flows onto the palate with masses of black cherries, minerals, spices, tar, new leather and smoke. This is an exceptionally well-balanced and finessed Brunello full of character. The tannins remain rather firm but there is enough sheer density of fruit that opening a bottle on the young side is still likely to be rewarding. Simply put, Fuligni’s 2004 Brunello di Montalcino is not to be missed. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2024. Fuligni is a reference-point producer in Montalcino whose wines capture a middle ground between modern and traditional approaches. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900
Reviewed by: James Suckling
The aromas of dried cherries and dried herbs are right where this mature Brunello should be, as are the dried red and purple flowers and cedar notes. The palate has a long, succulent and juicy feel with sturdy, clearly articulated tannins and a core of earthy, dried-cherry flavor. Drink over the next six to eight years.
About the Producer
The Fuligni Family, of ancient Venetian origin, moved to England in the 14th century to lead a Free Company supporting Edward III, receiving favours and honours from the Crown. When the Habsburg-Lorraine became head of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, Luigi Fuligni moved to Tuscany as a general of the new rulers. The vineyards, of approximately fourteen hectares, are mostly located on the north-eastern slope of Montalcino, with the classic exposure for Brunello. Other vineyards are located south-east, where the soil is mixed (tuff and clay). The vines are on average around 15 years old, although there are some mother vines which are over forty years old and which carry older clones of Sangiovese (with a lower yield per hectare).
