Tuscan Collectibles: Casanova di Neri Cerretalto – The Wine

The power and elegance of Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto is as close as to phenomenal one can get with Sangiovese. The length and the intensity of silky tannins just takes your breath away. I tasted two vintages of Cerretalto with Casanova di Neri winemaker and owner Giacomo Neri in his winery near the town of Montalcino. It was a wonderful experience. The fabulous 2006 will not be out until early next year. I also tasted the most recently released 2004. No Cerretalto was made in 2005. The Cerretalto is my No. 5 Most Collectible Tuscan Wine. Check out the video, and my tasting notes below for the Cerretalto.

2004 Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto: This is spicy and very, very rich with light raisin and hints of vanilla bean character. It’s full and velvety textured with a long and flavorful finish. Structured and refined. Drink now or hold. 96 points.

2006 Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto: A potentially perfect red. It shows dark fruits with prunes, blackberries, and blueberries on the nose. Insane intensity. Full and dense with thick, yet super-polished and velvety tannins. Incredible length and depth.  Amazing. Such great acidity and freshness too. The finish shows notes of iron, rust and dark fruits. Goes on for minutes. Out in the market early next year. 100 points.