2016 San Giorgio Ugolforte Brunello di Montalcino

Recently purchased by neighbouring Tuscan icon Poggio di Sotto, the San Giorgio estate includes six hectares of Brunello and 2.5 of Rosso. The terroir matches that of Poggio di Sotto, all located in the Castelnouvo dell’Abate zone of Montalcino with vineyards on rocky slopes between 250 and 400 meters overlooking the Orcia river.
‘Ugolforte’ takes its name from a local revolutionary that led the forces against Siena in the 12th century. From the oldest vineyards, the wine is aged in barriques (30% new) for twelve months and then in larger Slavonian casks for three years.
Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Nosing releases scents of red cherries, red currants, subtle crushed rose petal notes, dried herbs, earthy tobacco and spicy cedar. Rich and smooth on entry, the elegant mid weighted palate is layered with red cherry and red currant fruits which are shaped by a sturdy yet well integrated tannin framework and fresh acidity. Earth, dried herb, light tobacco and spicy cedar elements lie beneath. Excellent power and finesse with a very long and savoury conclusion.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%

Other Reviews….
Deep, dark red fruits and exotic spices give way to hints of menthol, flowery undergrowth and tobacco as the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Ugolforte unfolds in the glass. It’s silky-smooth and cool-toned with ripe woodland berries, hints of clove and blood orange. Fine tannins coat the palate, but energy remains high due to vibrant acidity, as this tapers off with a salty, almost silty minerality under rosy inner florals. The 2016 spent only six months in second-pass barriques before being completed in 30-hectoliter Slavonian oak for another 40 months. Retasting this wine with another year of bottle age was a total pleasure. Drink 2024-2034.
95 points
Eric Guido - Vinous

This is a full-bodied red with ripe blackberry, smoked-meat and burnt-orange notes. Strong tannins with a lots of chewiness. Quite tight on the finish. But there is pureness and beauty to this. More opulent than the 2015. Drink after 2025.
95 points
JamesSuckling.com