PV Tasting Notes
What to say about this, firstly, it’s totally gorgeous, balanced and approachable, but there again it isn’t, its big and bold, rather tannic with huge acidity, this is a dichotomy in a glass. The wine starts out gently, with lovely aromas of red cherries and super floral tones, easy on the palate, refined and ripe cut strawberry fruit, then the tannins begin and the muscular underlying structure comes forth and immediately you know this needs another 3-5 years in bottle before this will even begin to strut its stuff. This is capable of improving for maybe another 20-30 years. I have been fortunate enough to taste more than 20 vintages of this wine, but I have not found one nearly as good from the past. This seems to combine the best of the richness, tannic structures and freshness of all the best years of the past. Fantastic stuff and reminiscent of Grand Cru Burgundy. Tasted Jan 2011
2006 Brunello Vintage
There really is no question in my mind that 2006 is a great vintage for Sangiovese and especially Brunello di Montalcino, perhaps the greatest ever, we shall have to wait a while to know for sure, but here is an opportunity to get hold of some stunning wines.
Il Maronetto is one of the three estates forming the new genetic map of the “Holy Grail” of Brunello di Montalcino following the scandal of several years ago. Many estates have still not cleaned up their act, and still manage to acquire big ratings for wines which can only be described as dubious in their nature.
These two Brunello wines are classic Sangiovese in every sense of the word, comparable to the finest red burgundies and with the ageing potential to match. Both these 2006’s have such complexity and depth of flavours, yet they are almost shy, very seductive in their beauty.
Both wines are in perfect proportion, with fabulous balance, there is almost a dazzling display of richness and yet both remain totally delicate, I am mesmerised by these wines, we tasted both bottles opened for the whole day, and every time I tasted them I found something new. To my mind there is no doubt, 2006 will be declared as one of the best ever vintages for Brunello di Montalcino. Perhaps even the New Benchmark! Jan 2011
Independent Review94+ Points Antonio Galoni - The Wine Advocate May 2011
The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino offers up freshly cut flowers, black cherries, minerals, new leather and menthol in a polished, totally vibrant style that is highly appealing. Over time, the wine’s inner sweetness emerges, hinting at what is in store over the coming years. Still quite firm, the estate’s Brunello will need a few years in the cellar. It will appeal most to readers who like firm, ageworthy wines. This finish impresses for its focus and overall purity. Smoke, underbrush, tar and a host of other aromas and flavors add complexity on the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2026. Each year I am increasingly impressed with the wines I taste from Il Marroneto.
We would suggest matching this with the finest Italian foods, herb stuffed veal wrapped in Prosciutto, venison braised in cherries, saltimbocca alla romana, most Italian sausages, or pork sausages with lots of herbs. Also game birds, Pheasant, Partridge, Grouse or Woodcock and of course many styles of pasta.
The Marroneto farm was purchased in 1974 by Giuseppe Mori, father of current owner Alessandro, as a child Alessandro immediately showed great interest in winemaking, which began in two small rooms, the only ones which were available at the time. Following these small tentative steps, the basement was enlarged, both sons trained to become lawyers, but Alessandro was totally enraptured by the winemaking process and the philosophy behind it, decided to follow his passion and gave up the law to become full time winemaker.
Today ‘Alessandro works in the traditional way, both farming and winemaking biodynamically, treating his wines like spoilt children, giving constant love and care, watching slowing as the wines develop over four years in barrel. Alessandro clearly has a deep passion for Sangiovese, and wants his Brunello’s to express the true fruit with all of its perfumes, delicacy and elegance.
All Il Marroneto wines are created in the traditional way, which leads to wines deep in elegance and rich in aromas. After more than 30 years of winemaking the Il Marroneto estate is considered one of the ten most important and famous historical di Montalcino (Siena).