Produced from vineyards which are over 10 years old, it represents the essence of our concept of terroir: an expression of elegance, depth, and freshness of our Sangiovese, able to unite its balsamic quality of the north side of Montalcino with the opulence of our lands.
Brunello di Montalcino DOCG
Sangiovese 100%
Average of 300 Meters Above Sea Level
The vintage Brunello di Montalcino "Canalicchio di Sopra" is the result of a blend of two different soils: a terrain with a marked clay component, very rich in intermediate elements such as Magnesium, Iron and Manganese characteristic of the Cru Canalicchio and a "galestro" soil with a very high mineral component, loamy texture with a high presence of silt, characteristic of the Cru Montosoli.
The blend favors wines of great minerality and sapidity, supported by excellent acidity ideal for long aging.
Cordon trained and spur pruned (Spurrend cordon)
For our Brunello di Montalcino 2020, grapes from the estate cru vineyards were used (Canalicchio 50% and Montosoli 50%).
In steel tanks with fermentation temperature control, daily soft pumping over. Maceration on the skins for 25 days
36 months in slavonian Oak casks (2500 and 5000 Liters)
1966
1280 bottles - 375 ml
38857 bottles - 750 ml
762 bottles - 1500 ml
40 bottles - 3000 ml
20 bottles - 5000 ml
3 bottles - 12000 ml
15%
The weather in 2020 can surely be ranked among the hottest years with a dry period from June 17 to August 2, but seeing it as only a hot vintage would be misleading based on the result in the bottle.
Analyzing the general weather conditions in detail and taking into account the fall of 2019, a crucial time for creating water reserves, we can highlight the following:
- from October 1 to December 31, 2019, 600mm of rain was recorded (which continued with the 115mm from January 1 to March 31, 2020), creating water reserves that were easily able to handle the dry conditions in the middle of summer (mid-June to July).
- Winter was characterized by moderately low temperatures but at least 35% of the days between January 1 and March 31 saw below-zero temperatures, ideal conditions for the plants to eliminate pathogens and for a proper vegetative recovery of the vines, which was regular and not early.
- In the months of April and May, the rains were concentrated in only five days in April and six in May for a total of a further 100mm of rainfall as water reserves; this situation was ideal to control any plant disease allowing us to reduce the minimum number of copper and sulphur treatments.
- In the last ten days of May until the beginning of June, the absence of rain and reduced leaf wetness favored regular and even flowering.
- From mid-June to the end of July, there was a period without rainfall during which the highs ranged from about 28° to 30°C favoring, thanks to the full water reserves, regular and continuous plant development.
- Only during days between the end of July and the beginning of August was there a more intense heat wave with temperatures over 35°C topping out at 39°C in seven days. We protected our vines with the use of natural shielding to prevent burning.
- Rainfall at the beginning of August interrupted a period of intense heat refreshing the air and lowering the temperatures which returned to seasonal norms.
- The heat between the end of July and the beginning of August slowed the veraison process, which turned out to be essential in protecting the fruit from possible sunburn.
- The 40mm of rain which fell between August 30 and 31 ultimately rebalanced the vines giving them that necessary push for proper phenolic maturation and activating photosynthesis of the leaves.
- The significant diurnal temperature ranges during the 30 days prior to the harvest favored the preservation of good acidity, favoring an excellent phenolic maturation of the grapes. The calculation of the qualitative Fregoni Index (431,9) for wines destined for long ageing shows a result in line with the biggest vintages
2020: PLEASENTNESS
In the practice of naming the style, which we try to do every year to encapsulate the essence of the vintage in a single word, we believe the word “Pleasantness” is the most suitable, the one which best describes the characteristics of a great vintage which expresses itself in a more immediate and ready, generous, vibrant way without neglecting those aspects of freshness and verticality which characterize the northern side of Montalcino, the only area where Canalicchio di Sopra has sought to create a precise and distinct stylistic identity over the years.
The year of Covid, of the closed world and of the forced sheltering in place, even the very complex situation we were in, didn’t affect the special attention we strive to put into the management of our vineyards every year, the time that we spend there is decidedly superior to any other activity at the winery year after year, and that works for us. Everything starts in the vineyard, from the ability to interpret every single vintage, breaking away from strategies and protocols in order to adapt continuously to different situations.
Our grandfather and our father taught us, first and foremost, respect for the land, not to change it, not to standardize the fruit of the vintage, and, by following this precious teaching, we interpreted this vintage according to its identity, thus enhancing the aspect of pleasantness, being more fleshy, more pronounced roundness, tannic elegance, all found within a framework of minerality and freshness: the perfect mix for great drinkability and more immediate enjoyment, but also optimal longevity. The 2020 wines are well-rounded with notable spice, optimizing the floral and balsamic qualities typical of our subzone, showing elegant and not vulgar texture, creating full pervasiveness in the mouth with surprising depth, persistence, and verticality.
The 2020 harvest started slightly earlier than the 2019 harvest; the first grapes were picked on September 18 from the youngest vineyards for the production of Rosso di Montalcino. We then continued in the vineyards for the production of Brunello di Montalcino, harvesting in a short period of time from September 20 to 30. The Vigna La Casaccia was harvested on September 24 while the grapes in Vigna Montosoli were picked on September 22. The grapes were harvested during a time of significant diurnal temperature ranges, especially during the last five days of September with lows well under 10°C, which favored the development of elegant and persistent floral notes and which surely characterized the aroma of the vintage. Heavy rainfall of about 70mm on the September 25 did not affect the harvest and was welcomed as a blessing by rebalancing the skin/liquid ratio in some vineyards, where the picking started again on September 27, which proved to be essential in giving the wines more elegance and drinkability.
During the phases of vinification, the work in the cellar was shaped by delicateness with more controlled and less punchy extractions, aiming to preserve the aromas and persistence by limiting the time spent on the skins to 25 days. The ageing period which followed showed the ability of the vintage to naturally maintain an excellent antioxidant framework, preserving the freshness and a great ability to evolve in the direction of a pleasant roundness, showing fine and elegant, generous and silky tannins.
In addition to the greatness of this vintage is the expertise in knowing how to adapt to the needs of this vintage by following the direction that Canalicchio di Sopra undertook years before: always putting the focus on the territory and the vintage, and breaking away from conformity in the cellar in order to give any differences added value rather than seeing them as a restriction.
The added value of this vintage lies also in the ability to have made courageous decisions: in 2020 we decided not to produce our Riserva, a difficult choice to make in such an important and optimal year as 2020, determined by the desire to develop our Brunello Annata even more, our blend of Brunello which was able to benefit from the grapes of the Vigna Vecchia Mercatale, which are usually designated for the Riserva wine in the big vintages.
The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino DOCG “Canalicchio di Sopra” is, as per tradition, a 50% blending of the two terroirs on which our vineyards are located, Canalicchio and Montosoli. Our flagship wine, produced since 1966, is, with every vintage, a pursuit of perfect balance, endeavoring to make these two territories complementary. The 2020 expresses itself with opulence, intensity, fruit and softness, yet also even manages to enhance the depth and freshness, as well as the floral notes in an enveloping and elegant balance.
The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino is a beautifully round and opulent wine that bursts open with vitality and a rush of immediate fruit. It shows lasting intensity with dried cherry, plum, blackberry, spice, leather and tobacco. Generally speaking, the aromas are soft and enduring. This wine offers enormous pleasure upfront and can be consumed within the next ten years. The wine is less adapted for long aging given the approachable tannins and ripe fruit flavors. In its current form, it is a delicious Brunello. Monica Larner
The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino will blow you away. This is a delightful expression that boasts its extreme quality from the minute the wine is poured from the bottle. As you should expect, it just gets better and better with each additional minute in the glass. It opens to a vibrant dark ruby color and blackish-garnet hues. The bouquet is ever changing and shows a long succession of aromatic characteristics that rage from dark fruit, plum, spice, leather, licorice, red rose, balsam and grilled herb. It's textbook Brunello from a great vintage and this side of the appellation (on the northeastern side) performs fantastically in 2010. This beauty should hold fifteen years or more. Monica Larner
The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino is a standout expression with long and polished notes of dried fruit and tobacco presented in a smooth and seamless fashion. It shows good structure and balance but an even prettier nose with ethereal balsam herbs, tar, licorice and pressed violets that emerge as the wine evolves in the glass. The wine hints at a greater evolution to come. Drink: 2017-2022. Monica Larner
The 2008 Brunello di Montalcino is fabulous. An exciting melange of dark cherries, plums, tobacco, licorice, mocha and herbs take shape in the glass. Powerful, rich and structured, the 2008 wraps around the palate with serious depth. The Canalicchio Brunellos often have an element of wildness to them, as does the 2008, but the wine also has a track record of aging very well. This is an intriguing Brunello, to say the least. The 2008 has more than enough depth to stand up to 36 months in cask. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2028. Canalicchio di Sopra is one of my favorite properties in Montalcino. The wines are consistently outstanding, have plenty of personality and also age beautifully. Antonio Galloni
Plump and bursting with cherry, strawberry and mineral aromas and flavors, this racy red evokes harmony and freshness, with hints of spice, chocolate and tobacco as it plays out gracefully on the long aftertaste. There's structure here, with all the components integrated. Best from 2020 through 2035. 2,870 cases made, 1,100 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is elegant and tight with dried cherry, earthy root, pressed violet and exotic spice. The wine's long mandatory aging period has added to its aromatic intensity and textural weight. You also recognize that special complexity that comes with Sangiovese when grown in this sunny appellation on the southern side of Tuscany. This is a solid wine with 36,237 bottles released.
-Monica Larner
This juicy red is highlighted by plum, black cherry, tomato leaf, eucalyptus and mineral flavors. Starts out ripe and balanced, turning drier on the tobacco- and spice-tinged finish. Vibrant and long. Best from 2025 through 2040.
- Bruce Sanderson -
Dusty violets, lavender and cloves accentuate dried black cherries as the dramatic 2019 Brunello di Montalcino smolders up from the glass. This is impossible to ignore, bursting with energy as depths of ripe red fruits, chalky minerals and exotic spices saturate all they touch, balanced by textures of pure silk. The 2019 finishes with fantastic length and concentration, leaving a staining of tart blackberry and hints of orange that curl the tongue as crunchy tannins tug at the palate. It's rare to see such a combination of vibrancy and power. Canalicchio di Sopra nailed it in 2019. Wow. Drinking window 2026-2042
Canalicchio di Sopra is high on my shortlist of favorite producers in Montalcino. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino is a sumptuous wine made according to carefully considered criteria. Every step of the winemaking process represents a selection of sorts, culminating in an expression of extremes. The precision, the focus and the pristine nature of the aromas cannot be exaggerated. It is such a pleasure to taste a wine of this caliber and distinction. Aromas of dark fruit and savory spice find seamless integration. Background tones of balsam herb, cola and licorice add a superior level of complexity. In the mouth, the wine is polished, fine and silky. The mouthfeel is thinner compared to 2011 and 2010. Otherwise, this is a fabulously elegant Brunello. Monica Larner
Aromas of dark berry, mint, savory herb, blue flower and a balsamic note lead the nose. On the concentrated palate, notes of white pepper, cinnamon, clove, licorice and tobacco add depth to the black cherry core. Youthfully austere but fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity support the juicy flavors. Give this time to open and develop complexity. KERIN O’KEEFE
Canalicchio di Sopra's 2013 Brunello di Montalcino is tight and firm at its core, with qualities that bode very well for its aging potential. That compact core is surrounded by many thick layers of dark fruit and spice that are expressive and expansive. Those outer layers give the wine softness and some immediate accessibility, even at this early stage in its life. All summed up, this is a very complete and characteristic Brunello that offers stunning quality for medium or long-term drinking.
- Monica Larner
Vivid medium-dark red. Hints at black and red fruits on the delicate, refined nose, complicated by nuances of violet and flint. Then smooth and suave in the mouth, with outstanding breadth to the blueberry, sour red cherry, potpourri and floral flavors. Penetrating minerality contributes to the lasting impression of precision and verve. The noble, mouth-coating tannins provide backbone and noteworthy aging potential to this extremely elegant, pure, dense wine. One of the top eight or so Brunellos of the 2013 vintage.
- Ian D'Agata
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is understated in the glass, as swirling brings forward nuances of mint, white pepper, dusty black cherries and flowery underbrush. This is a soft and delicate Brunello from Canalicchio di Sopra, also quite mineral in style, impressing with its smooth contours and finesse, while showing rose-tinged red berries and hints of spice. A coating of gentle tannin lingers through the medium-length finale, along with hints of licorice, as the mouth is left watering for more. The 2018 is a total charmer with a beautiful balance, bolstered by the juice that would usually go into the Riserva.
- Eric Guido
Canalicchio di Sopra has put out a strong set of Brunello from the 2018 vintage, including this particularly impressive 'classic' bottling. As is customary, it blends fruit from holdings on the hill of Montosoli with plots in Canalicchio. The most immediately expressive vintage I have tasted from the estate, the 2018 also packs plenty of promise. Iris, liquorice and balsamic notes are underscored by an alluring truffle accent. The palate is fluid and charming, with chalky tannins that sneak up but remain velvety. Sweet forest berries are countered by minty green freshness, and the finish is positively crisp with tangy cranberry.
- Michaela Morris
With a hint of candied cherry, grenadine or Shirley Temple, the Canalicchio di Sopra 2019 Brunello di Montalcino reveals purple blossom, dried flower, cough drop and balsam herb. The wine is very nicely stitched together with integrated oak that comes through in a structural way but not too much on the bouquet. The tannins do feel dry on the mid-palate, but they remain fine and tight. The alcohol is a bit high in this vintage at 15%. Production is 47,321 bottles. Drink Date 2025 - 2040.
- Monica Larner -
This red sets cherry, plum, earth, iron and underbrush flavors against a fleshy texture and firm structure. A fresh version, with refined tannins supporting the long finish. Best from 2027 through 2042, 1.147 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson -
Forest floor, dark-skinned berry, iris and new leather aromas lead the nose. The full-bodied juicy palate offers ripe wild cherry, star anise and a hint of pipe tobacco alongside taut, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2023–2030.KERIN O’KEEFE
Wild berry, dark spice and Mediterranean herb aromas lift out of the glass, accented by a whiff of new leather. The enveloping, full-bodied palate doles out fleshy black cherry, star anise, pipe tobacco and cinnamon notes, framed by chewy tannins. Drink 2020–2027. KERIN O’KEEFE
Here's a Brunello with thick concentration and broad aromas of mesquite smoke, black cherry and Indian spice. Despite that bold bouquet the wine is actually tight and compact in the mouth, where it performs with easy elegance thanks to its bright acidity and lively wild berry flavors.
On the northern slopes of Montalcino, Canalicchio di Sopra's Brunello is crafted from two plots. The home site is clay, rich in magnesium, iron and manganese, while Le Gode di Montosoli is distinguished as classic galestro. Gorgeously fresh and youthful, this has well-defined scents of pepper and fennel. The palate possesses similar vibrancy, where wild strawberry, mineral and balsamic notes build on the finish. Refined yet firm tannins give plenty of confidence for ageing.
- Michaela Morris
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino from Canalicchio di Sopra boasts great aromatics of wild rose, new leather forest floor and perfumed berry that align with whiffs of spice. It’s savory and loaded with finesse, featuring juicy red cherry, botanical herb, white pepper and iron mineral notes framed in taut, lithe tannins. Blending grapes from their Montosoli and Canalicchio vineyards created an ideal, natural balance. Drink through 2038.
- Kerin O'Keefe
Black cherry, black berry, and lead pencil on the nose. Some fresh bark too. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a fresh finish. Linear tannins. Drink after 2026.
- James Suckling -
A Brunello ‘vintage’ of balance and great tension of family Ripaccioli. All the varietal wealth of the northeast quadrant of the ‘hill’, black cherry, notes of clementine peel and laurel. Balsamic attack on the palate, with density and citrusy return. Closes on floral notes.
- Luca Gardini -
Deep ruby with orange tinges. Brooding raspberry with the merest suggestion of cardamon pod. Minty raspberry that grows in stature and concentration on the palate. Long, dramatic, aromatic finish with fine-grained tannins. Fantastic balance and precision. Drink 2026 – 2038.
- Walter Speller -
New leather, camphor, forest floor and exotic brown spice aromas lead the nose on the robust, savory 2019 Brunello from Canalicchio. This is a big, bold red, delivering liquor-soaked prune, succulent black cherry, licorice and tobacco alongside a backbone of firm, tightly woven tannins. You’ll also feel the warmth of alcohol on the close.
- Kerin O’Keefe -
After excellent showings from the 2018 vintage, Canalicchio di Sopra follows up with an impressive trio of 2019s. There is also a highly promising Riserva waiting in the wings... In the meantime, the current releases kick off with the estate Brunello, which is assembled from vines that are at least a decade old. It's a model of freshness and energy, backed by substance and staying power. Aromas of mint, lavender and tobacco lead to a radiant core of warm stone and red currants. The tannins are direct and linear, giving a firm grip to the dense fruit. Bitter citrus to finish. Drinking Window: 2025 - 2037
- Michaela Morris -
Canalicchio di Sopra’s Brunello epitomises the northern side of Montalcino, combining Canalicchio itself (a historical area with a high plane of calcareous, clay-rich soils) and the famed hill of Montosoli, with more free-draining galestro, both at middling altitudes of around 300m (985ft). The nose opens with malt biscuit and Earl Grey tea over strawberry fruit of a cedary refinement. The landing is more reserved, its glassy translucency reveals smoky notes of tea leaf and incense resins, with subtle allusions to cranberry fruit and quite an unyielding, taut structure. With its ferrous finish, polished plaster tannins and linear acidity, it feels a little cerebral and withholding at present. This reflects proprietor and winemaker Francesco Ripaccioli’s preference for wines that are reductive-leaning (though not pungent) in youth, opening relatively slowly after their 36 months in untoasted oak botti. Drink 2026 – 2039.
- Sarah Heller MW -
Wild berry, leafy underbrush, truffle, scorched earth and dark spice aromas unfold on this classic red. The full-bodied palate offers fleshy black cherry, clove, ground pepper and anise alongside firm, ripe tannins. Let the tannins unwind for a few more years then enjoy. KERIN O’KEEFE
Opening aromas recall underbrush, red berry, white mushroom, truffle and thyme with a whiff of leather. The palate offers restrained wild cherry accented with white pepper, mint and sage alongside tightly knit tannins. While the tannins need to unwind, this wine isn't made for long-term cellaring. Drink 2015–2019. KERIN O’KEEFE
Coffee, leather, licorice and plum cake flavors are deeply concentrated on this rich, opulent wine. There's fruit here too, in the form of cherry liqueur and blackberry pie. This is a robust and generous wine that will appeal to those who appreciate a darker side of Brunello.
This is a nicely balanced wine with bright cherry and berry flavors that are offset by sweet spice, almond and toasted oak. The wood elements already show integration and will continue to diminish with time. Give this wine five or so more years of cellar aging.
Here's a tight and compact expression from Montalcino with bright tones of cherry wood, wild berries and violets that are delivered in steady aromatic pulses. The finish is not too long or persistent, but the flavors are fresh and very tasty while they last.
Ripe berry and cherry aromas with hints of spices and cedar. Dried flowers, too. Full-bodied, dense and layered. Fantastic richness and depth. Long, long finish. Best ever. Try after 2022.
- James Suckling
With this wine, Canalicchio di Sopra marks its 50th vintage of Brunello. It is a superb tip of the hat to founder Primo Pacenti by his highly capable grandchildren Francesco, Marco and Simonetta Ripaccioli, who now run the property. It expresses gradually and graciously both on the nose and the palate with wild flowers, forest berries and fresh earth emerging out of a sapid and minerally core. Brilliantly mid-weight but not lacking depth, this demonstrates brightness of fruit, delectable acidity, plenty of fine-grained tannins and a lingering finish.
- Michaela Morris
This bottle marks the special 50th anniversary of this wine. A little red sticker on the front label commemorates the five decades that have passed since grandfather Primo Pacenti did his first harvest. The medium-weight Canalicchio di Sopra 2015 Brunello di Montalcino shows a generous spread of forest fruit, licorice, blue flower, bay leaf, Provence herbs and fragrant wet soil aromas. There is a touch of earthy muskiness that some like to refer to as "foxy." Fruit for this Brunello represents a selection of clusters harvested over 10 hectares at 300 to 320 meters above sea level in two sites: Canalicchio and Montosoli. Canalicchio has clay soils for the structure of the wine, and Montosoli adds to the clarity of the aromas. All the vines are over 10 years old. Fermentation is in stainless steel, and aging spans 36 months in Slavonian oak casks. This wine from the warm and sunny 2015 vintage maintains its trademark crispness and freshness nonetheless. This vintage is available in bottles of various sizes, with more large formats filled to celebrate this 50th anniversary. It was bottled in May 2019 (37,520 750-millilter bottles were produced, not counting the large formats) and released in January 2020.
- Monica Larner
The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino from Canalicchio di Sopra - Ripaccioli is superb. The nose is dark and mineral-inflected with a blast of crushed raspberry, cherry and darker blackberry fruits wafting up from the glass, as sweet florals, underscored by moist soil and hints of cedar amass. On the palate, silky, almost creamy textures, offset by a stunning mix of salty-minerals and acids with savory herbs, and inner earth tones tempted the senses for another sip. The finish is remarkably long, resonating on minerals and dark fruits, almost balsamic and spicy, as its tannic structure comes forward and reminds me that this Brunello is still just a baby. What a gorgeous expression of Sangiovese.
- Eric Guido
Firm and tightly wound for now, yet features a solid beam of cherry and strawberry fruit, graced by iron, sanguine and leather accents. Lively acidity infuses this intense red with energy, driving the long finish. Best from 2023 through 2042. 3,127 cases made, 1,290 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Tasted blind. Lustrous mid ruby. Brooding yet quite closed on the nose. Ripe and sweet and at the same time tangy and elegant. It has everything: lots of tangy fruit, gripping tannins and elegant palate weight.
- Walter Speller
The Canalicchio di Sopra 2016 Brunello di Montalcino shows balance and symmetry with that difficult twofold delivery of power and elegance. This terrific new release shows dark fruit and tart cherry, but then unwinds slowly to reveal light spice, toasted nut, blue flower and crushed limestone. The wine affords a genuine sense of place with roots in the northern half of the appellation where the light is whiter and the nights are cooler. That brilliant luminosity appears in the pure quality of fruit and the sharp focus of the mouthfeel, driven by balanced tannins and acidity. The sensation it gives is compact and long, without too much extra volume or padding. This wine is like a contoured, chiseled and carefully polished marble statue that you would see in a Renaissance church. Production is an ample 44,218 bottles.
- Monica Larner
The 2016 Canalicchio di Sopra Brunello di Montalcino is flat-out stunning, remarkably vibrant and an almost-ethereal expression. There’s an exotic citrusy tinge to its ripe black cherries, taking on hints of sage, cedar and allspice, all grounded by moist earth tones. It’s focused and remarkably pure with a noticeable inner sweetness to the red and hints of blackberry fruit, all cast across a silky, feminine frame. The structure builds like a crescendo, as minerals fade to youthful tannins. Juicy acids maintain perfect balance from start to finish, making for a surprisingly fresh expression yet with amazing length. There’s simply so much going on here, and there are promises of more good things to come.
- Eric Guido
A dusty, tannic red with plum, red berry and cedar, chocolate and walnut undertones. It’s full-bodied, yet reserved and tight with ultra fine tannins and a vivid finish. A pretty, polished red. Drink after 2022.
- James Suckling
Mid ruby with some brick at the rim. More fruit sweetness but also more developed undergrowth compared with the Altesino Montosoli. Opens to a pretty floral fragrance. Firm, sweet and chewy, the fruit filling out the core. Young and lovely and so moreish.
- Julia Harding MW
Dark red cherries, plums, spices, mint, licorice and hard candy jump from the glass in the estate's 2010 Brunello di Montalcino. Ripe, juicy and deeply expressive, the 2010 boasts stunning mid-palate density. Even with all of its immediacy and voluptuousness, the 2010 has enough structure to drink well for another 20+ years. The Canalicchio Brunellos always offer power, but the 2010 overlays tons of finesse to round things out.
- Antonio Galloni
Dark red cherries, plums, spices, mint, licorice and hard candy jump from the glass in the estate's 2010 Brunello di Montalcino. Ripe, juicy and deeply expressive, the 2010 boasts stunning mid-palate density. Even with all of its immediacy and voluptuousness, the 2010 has enough structure to drink well for another 20+ years. The Canalicchio Brunellos always offer power, but the 2010 overlays tons of finesse to round things out.
- James Suckling
Deep ruby with narrow orange rim. Quite herbal and savoury more than fruity at first, and really closed. Tightly packed fruit palate and richly tannic. A little austere at the moment, yet elegant and with real ageing potential.
- Walter Speller
A solid red, displaying cooked plum and cherry flavors on a bed of dense tannins. Tight and compact on the finish, where youthful, exuberant tannins reign. Stays long and balanced in the end. Best from 2019 through 2034. 3,333 cases made, 1,250 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino is a gorgeous, striking wine. Sweet macerated cherries, tobacco, licorice, spice and mint are all laced together in a super-expressive, resonant Brunello endowed with real class. Open-knit and seductive, the 2011 will drink well with minimal cellaring. This is an especially delicate, sensual Brunello that speaks to the finesse that is possible on the northern side of Montalcino, and a terrific example of the year at its very best. With time in the glass, the 2011 starts to shut down, which may be a very good sign of its potential longevity. In any event, the 2011 Brunello is a winner. Proprietor Francesco Ripaccioli gave the 2011 a bit less time in oak than is customary. Production was just 28,000 bottles as opposed to the 50,000 bottles that were produced between the straight Brunello and Riserva in 2010 (there is no Riserva in 2011.)
- Antonio Galloni
A silky, refined red with plum, berry and cherry aromas and flavors. Full body. Lots of ripe fruit but not overdone. Chewy with polished tannins and a refined finish. Really excellent for the vintage. Needs a year or two to soften: better in 2017.
- James Suckling
Tasted blind. Maturing ruby with orange rim. A little bit stalky, but with brooding fruit underneath. The fruit makes quite a big impact on the palate, but is wonderfully matched by lots of grainy tannins and juicy acidity. A tiny bit singed, but overall irresistible.
- Walter Speller
A perfumed version, this reveals cherry, strawberry, spice and leather flavors, with briar and tobacco accents. Firm and a bit gruff on the finish, but this hangs together in the end. Best from 2018 through 2027. 2,361 cases made, 700 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Luminous red. Intense aromas of red cherry, licorice and tar are complicated by a strong note of torrefaction. Deep dense and suave, with youthfully chewy tannins and a slightly herbal nuance to the dark plum and coffee flavors. Still more notes of torrefaction and coffee emerge with aeration. This brooding, strapping Brunello will require patience.
- Ian D'Agata
Wonderfully aromatic and fresh with plum, flower and citrus character. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a delicious finish. So much finesse. Drink or hold.
- James Suckling
Tasted blind. Mid to deep ruby with orange tinges. Lifted, peppery and full nose, but not entirely open. Gorgeous cherry fruit tightly packed with tannins. Finely tuned like a sports car, if really tannic for the moment.
- Walter Speller
Loads of balsamic aromas and flavors—juniper, rosemary, thyme, olive—along with cherry, sanguine and tobacco notes are the hallmarks of this intense red. Well-integrated and complex, building to a long aftertaste. Best from 2021 through 2035. 3,400 cases made, 1,250 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Ripe berry and dried orange peel character follow through to a full body, round and velvety tannins and a juicy finish. A more fruit-forward style for this estate. Better in 2019.
- James Suckling
Maturing ruby with bright orange tinges. Still a little closed on the nose and with compact fruit that is slow to unfurl on the palate. Impressive balance and concentration. Spicy cherry fruit on the finish and powerful tannins. Put this away for a couple of years.
- Walter Speller
The 2014 Brunello di Montalcino definitely shows the more accessible and easy-drinking side of this celebrated Sangiovese-based appellation in southern Tuscany. The wine offers all the prerequisite Brunello characteristics of wild berry and tobacco with pressed violets and fresh potting soil. However, those characteristics are presented at a notch or two of decreased intensity. This is quality common to the great majority of Brunellos I tasted from the 2014 vintage. I recommend this wine to lovers of Brunello looking for a wine to drink within the next ten years. Some 15,037 bottles were made.
- Monica Larner
Good deep red. Perfumed aromas of musky raspberry, cherry cola spices and flowers. Round and deep in the mouth, with lovely sweetness and a light touch to the red fruit and cedar flavors. Finishes long, pure and linear. The youthful, chewy but noble tannins will reward mid-term aging.
- Ian D'Agata
There’s good energy in this Brunello with quite ripe red-fruit aromas leading to a palate that has handsomely grainy tannins and an impressively deep, red-cherry core. Nice structure and build. Drink or hold.
- James Suckling
Francesco Ripaccioli called the 2014 harvest never-ending. After dropping any unhealthy grapes mid-September, 80% of what remained was picked for the Rosso on 25 September. The Brunello harvest, beginning on 5 Oct, consisted of only the smallest, most concentrated bunches, which in other years would 'give marmalade', notes Ripaccioli. The resulting wine is one of the successes of the vintage. Quite piercing and perfumed, its floral and red fruit tones are countered by touches of smoke and earth which linger remarkably. There's plenty of nerve and fine-boned tannin to support. Without lacking substance, this captures Sangiovese's glorious lightness of being.
- Michaela Morris
This fragrant red opens with scents that evoke violet, rose, perfumed berry and an earthy whiff of damp soil. On the lithe palate, you'll find sour cherry, pomegranate and star anise set against polished tannins. Vibrant acidity lends balance and energy. Drink through 2024.
- Kerin 0'Keefe
Pale to mid ruby. Very pure, direct, aromatic nose of definitely ripe fruit – impressive! Good build with light tannins and just the right amount of acidity. Arguably more Sangiovese than old-school Brunello but none the worse for that.
- Jansis Robinson
Lean and sinewy, with savory flavors of loam, soy, tobacco and woodsy spice surrounding a core of cherry fruit. Subtle and firm, finishing with mineral and woodsy spice accents. Best from 2020 through 2032. 1,550 cases made, 300 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Another great interpretation for this firm. On the nose, alcohol-infused marasca cherries with touch of undergrowth from fresh marjoram. Balsamic in the mouth, a pleasant juiciness and tautness. Officinal fresh notes returning on the finish.
- Luca Gardini
Spicy nose for this very fine Brunello: fresh spices, alcohol-infused cherries, blackberries. A wonderful acidity emphasized in the mouthfeel that is ample, with perfectly integrated tannins for an impressive persistence.
- Luca Gardini
Great and decisive tannic sharpness for this product which is, also this one, of great aging potential. Its nose is very variegated, with leather, freshlycut grass aromas and a balsamic but not excessively marked end. It seems mostly fresh, breezy and irreverent while drinking. Its age will enrich it with wisdom and (perhaps) truth
- Luca Gardini
Violet, some touches half way between mint and rose, and a red ripe fruit are the sensations that characterize the nose. It does not have a great opening or communicative ability, at least in the initial part of the sip, which remains anchored to tones of violet and sour cherry. From mid sip on, it extends in a soft key, thanks to the appearance of a nice range of spices. Vivacious tannins of an acidic mix.
- Luca Gardini
Brunello from the Northern side. Fruity aromas that do not translate only the roughness of mixed berries but instead flank them with smoother impressions of peach, yellow-fleshed fruit, and plums. A measured taste, once again fruity, even if enriched by the spiciness of red peppercorn and nutmeg. Refined tannic texture.
- Luca Gardini
Intense aromas of underbrush, wild berry, new leather and pipe tobacco lead the way on this fragrant Brunello. Full bodied and elegantly structured, the savory palate features ripe morello cherry, licorice and truffle before a black-tea finish. Firm, refined tannins and fresh acidity keep balanced and give it an ageworthy structure. Drink 2024–2036. - CELLAR SELECTION
- Kerin O’Keefe
Luscious black cherry is the main theme in this racy red, accented by plum, licorice, tar and iron. This is dense, turning more austere as the tannins take hold of the long finish. Shows fine energy, balance and potential. Best from 2025 through 2048.
- Bruce Sanderson
A blend of the Montosoli (60%) and Canalicchio (40%) crus.
Lustrous mid ruby. Closed, with minerally hints. Fantastic focus, concentration and balance and totally poised. Very pure, with long tannins. Enormous concentration yet not heavy. Very young but already irresistible.
-Walter Speller
Canalicchio di Sopra’s estate Brunello is a blend of plots from its home base in Canalicchio, as well as holdings on the Montosoli hill. The 2016 allies the restrained fleshiness of the former and the salinity of the latter with a balsamic dash. Scents of lilac and bay laurel turn to pure dark cherry on the palate, which is laced with liquorice and stone. Suave tannins maintain a grainy grip and there is no lack of mouthwatering acidity. Thrilling umami finish!
Drinking Window 2023 - 2035
- Michaela Morris
"This shows beautiful balance and drinkability, with firm and slightly
chewy tannins, yet the fruit is pure and flavorful. Some bark and
crushed-stone undertones. Very drinkable now, but better in 2023."
- James Suckling
Deciso e ricco di carattere mostra note miste floreali e fruttate che ricordano i fiori di ibisco, i gerani, la passiflora, le mandorle tritate ed il caramello dolce. Corpo medio-pieno, tannini morbidi di piacevole grana fine ed un finale succoso e balsamico di notevole bellezza. Meglio dal 2022.
- Raffaele Vecchione
The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is wildly perfumed, dusty and exotic, with balsam herbs, savory spices, red currants and plums coming across as so pretty yet rich and potent. A silky display of sour wild berries contrasted by candied citrus wows the senses as the 2017 plays a zesty sweet-and-sour act upon the palate. It’s long, youthfully chewy, yet still remarkably fresh, with rosy florals and tart, tart cherries giving way to chiseled tannins through the finale. This is a beautiful rendition of the 2017 vintage, one that takes the dry warmth of the year and expresses it with tremendous energy and verve. What's more, I revisited this bottle over the course of 36 hours and it only got better with time.
- Eric Guido
Considering the location of Canalicchio di Sopra’s vineyards to the east and north of Montalcino there should be every reason to think that 2017 would not pose the problem to making a top Annata. Francesco Ripaccioli would likely smile that wry smile when he knows that the year was in fact a magnanimous challenge but he would also follow up with that confident smile of this. Ripaccioli has the fortune and the instincts, to mix and match, to layer and compliment, to figure with mathematical precision and this wine expresses all that an more. There is cut and linearity, a finest architectural line and a freshness that belies what heat might want to take control. A fine classico for Montalcino that speaks to the best of all worlds within. Drink 2023-2030. Tasted November 2021.
- Michael Godel
Another success in the path of the Ripaccioli family in search of the best possible quality. Nose of pomegranate, with notes of fresh thyme and touches of carnation. The mouthfeel is taut, with excellent density, salty tannins and a nice persistence.
- Luca Gardini
Absolutely smooth and precise as is common with all the wines of Canalicchio di Sopra, I love the purity in this wine, all up front gorgeous fruit aromas and flavours, but there are still elements of complexity that linger long in your memory and taste buds. The vintage was a great one in Montalcino and owner Francesco Ripaccioli made one sensational wine after another.
- Ian D'Agata
Canalicchio di Sopra began harvesting Brunello on 25 September - just one day earlier than in 2016. Francesco Ripaccioli credits the significant diurnal temperature differences during the preceding month for measured ripening as well as preservation of acidity. The estate Brunello, which is a blend of vineyards in the Montosoli and Canalicchio zones, starts with smoky, flinty notes then gives way to intense herb blossoms. The palate is where it really struts its stuff at the moment, particularly the texture. It grips confidently in all the right places. Packed with flavours of small forest berries and dusty gravel, it finishes with a refreshing salty kick. Drinking Window 2023 - 2031
- Michaela Morris
As you drive downhill from the hamlet of Montalcino on its north side, you pass the Canalicchio di Sopra winery, which is located in a shallow, sun-lit basin of vines. This estate is meticulous and studied in its winemaking philosophy, and the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is an expression of that concentration. This warm-climate Brunello reveals awesome purity and intensity with wild cherry, almond and lilac spread over a tonic, mid-weight finish. This wine awards plenty of elegance in a vintage that was not easy and not prone to such nuance. Production is exactly 39,989 bottles.
-Monica Larner
Aromas of underbrush, blue flowers and ripe black-skinned fruit mingle with new leather. The concentrated, full-bodied palate doles out ripe plum, fleshy black cherry, star anise and tobacco set against velvety, enveloping tannins. A great performance for the scorching vintage, you won't have to wait long before enjoying this, but it will also offer years of fine drinking. Drink 2023–2029.
- Kerin O’Keefe
This red bursts with sweet, ripe cherry and plum fruit, with tobacco, leather and mineral elements adding depth as it builds to a lingering conclusion. Shows fine balance, a vibrant structure and excellent length. Spicy aftertaste. Best from 2024 through 2042.
- Bruce Sanderson
Just mid ruby. Some development on the nose with hints of forest floor but with quite pure cherry fruit underneath. Concentrated, focused cherry palate with a minty edge and bags of chewy tannins. Very long and gripping finish.
- Walter Speller
Reviewed by Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler
Warmduftige Nase nach Kirschen und Veilchen; saftiger Auftakt, die Tannine und die Säure in perfekter Symbiose, viel Saft und Schmelz bis ins Finale. Ein Allrounder.
- Christian Eder
Ruby red in colour. Sour berries vie with candid citrus fruits. Aromatics of sweet perfumed florals and spice have you rolling from side to side. Silky soft textures perform aerobatics on the mid palate. Contains the ‘Big Bang” of energy at its core. Brunello 2017 vintage…I can’t believe it!!!
- Tony Wood
Another refined Brunello from this winery succesfully led by Francesco Ripaccioli. North-western side of the ‘hill’. To the nose it opens with marasca cherries in alcohol, then nuances of rhubarb and linden. Equally balsamic to the palate, with juicy and dense-crisp tannins. Officinal return on the closure.
- Luca Gardini
Three years of cask ageing.
Lustrous mid ruby with orange tinges. Finely spiced raspberry, but more savoury than fruity. Hints of cinnamon bark and cherry. Supple yet lively displaying great purity of fruit and super-fine sandy tannins clinging to the fruit. Tannic chew and freshness.
- Walter Speller
Perfumed nose of neroli, bergamot, sandalwood, cherry stones and plums. Full-bodied and richly fruity with gently grainy tannins. Drink after 2023.
- James Suckling
Il frutto maturo esplode da ogni “angolo” del calice. Le note di prugne rosse, fragole, caramello dolce, incenso e cumino mostrano energia e carattere e raccontano nel migliore dei modi il Versante Nord di Montalcino nella località Canalicchio. Corpo medio, tannini perfettamente lineari di incredibile bellezza ed un finale che mostra succo e qualità del frutto impressionante. Meglio dal 2024.
- Raffaele Vecchione
Enstablished in 1992 by Primo Pacenti and one of the 12 founding members of the Brunello Consorzio, Canalicchio di Sopra owns a magnificent 60ha property on the north side of Montalcino, of which 19ha are planted to vines. With its pure, elegant perfume, Canalicchio di Sopra’s 2018 is a marvelously composed wine, with silky-firm texture, fine but firm tannins, succulent, fresh acids, and terrific length. I love the harmony and balance, the lingering, perfumed finish. A very fine wine that will please early on, even now, though surely age gracefully into the ‘30s. Grace and sophistication personified.
-John Szabo
Medium ruby red in colour. White cherry, wild strawberry, goji berries, dry floral underbrush, a dusting of exotic spice, salty liquorice and a hint of cedar balm. Focused. Balanced. Precise. Finely etched minerality. Very persistent intense finish.
- Tony Wood -
Brunello di Montalcino Trophy 2023
- Wolfgang M. Rosam, Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler -
Elegantes, zurückhaltendes Bouquet mit reifen roten und blauen Beeren, dahinter geht es erdig und würzig zu: Liebstöckel, Graphit und trüffelige Sous-Bois-Noten, dazu kommen florale und mit Luft auch ätherische Anklänge, sehr komplex und changierend. Am Gaumen elegant und dicht gewoben, mit feinen ätherischen Noten und einer guten, griffigen Frische. Wie so oft: Ein starker, klassischer Basis-Brunello!
Bright ruby red in colour. Aromas of red fruits and berries and white florals. Compact, forest floor, dried mushroom and blonde tobacco. Savoury. Juicy. Slate minerality. Tannins provide structure that texture, acidity and balance interplay. Still showing youthful tendencies. Linear close.
- Tony Wood -
Deep ruby red in colour with light amber rim. Super concentration of red cherry, berries, blood orange, prune and spice. Earthy notes. Fully placed on its plateau, full bodied but not heavy, white smoke and roast meat notes on the medium length finish.
- Tony Wood -
Bright medium red. Linear red cherry, plum, tar, licorice and violet aromas. Currently youthful and still chunky, with deep flavours similar to the aromas, this will develop nicely in a good cellar and reveal a complex, multilayered personality. Finishes long and with very smooth tannins.
- Ian D'Agata -
Guida 2024 - sezione "Vini da vitigni autoctoni"
Rauchig-würziges Bouquet mit einer schönen Liaison aus reifer rot- und schwarz beeriger Frucht und floral- und kräuterwürzigen Noten, dahinter getrocknete Veilchen und Zedernwürze. Am Gaumen mit saftig-jugendlicher Frucht, fast kühl und griffig wirkend, feinsandiges Tannin, kraftvoll und dicht gewoben, langes, würziges Finale. 2025 – 2036
- Giuseppe Lauria -
Canalicchio is northeast of Montalcino, criss-crossed by man-made canals, and is known for its clay soils and cooler aspects. Canalicchio di Sopra blends the grapes from around its winery with those from estate vineyards in Montosoli, the other hill northeast of Montalcino, which is drier with warmer western aspects and stonier soils. The blend produces a vibrant nose with notes of fresh bing cherry, and earthy smatterings of underbrush and rust. The cherry fruit is lifted by 2018’s effusive acidity and after it balloons on to the front palate is followed by a meaty savouriness. Tactile ridges of tannin run from mid-palate back, overlaid with a bitterness that balances out the ebullience of the entry.
- Sarah Heller MW -
Assolutamente intrigante e nobile nella matrice principale mostra note miste floreali e fruttate che ricordano il giacinto, le prugne rosse, le fragoline di bosco, il melograno, la buccia di limone, i mirtilli pressati e le foglie di tè nero. In sottofondo cola e bergamotto descrivono la scena secondaria di grande cifra stilistica. Corpo medio, tannini morbidi di ottima grana fine ed un finale sottile e delicato leggermente amaricante in chiusura. Meglio dal 2025.
- Raffaele Vecchione -
Vitae, La Guida Vini 2024 - X edizione
The most recent plantings at Canalicchio were executed in 2009 next to the 1990 La Casaccia vineyard. These vines are maturing and will likely seek entrance into the Vigna label but for now they are picked for this classic Brunello. They may not be grapes of enigma or mystery but they are the epitome of purity and the Brunello represents a high-casted estate style to explain so much about the house of Ripaccioli and Canalicchio di Sopra. The 2019 Brunello is a wine of silkiness but not opulence. A sangiovese that is an extension of a producer’s hands and there is no separating the wine from its maker. As for place well yes because all the vineyards are close enough to one another to combine for unmistakable identity. Drink 2023-2026.
- Michael Godel -
Luminous red. Open-knit red plum, blood orange and red cherry aromas and flavours are complemented by hints of tobacco and herbs. Closes smooth and ripe, with very good palate presence. Drinking window: 2024-2039.
- Ian D'Agata -
Medium ruby red in colour. Intense aromas of blue florals including violet, hyacinth and bluebell, assisted with cedar shavings, liquorice and distant mocha notes. Wild cherry, strawberry, loganberry, blood orange, balsamic notes, complex layered minerality. The entry, can be described as “an iron hand in a velvet glove.” Secondary notes of warm plum and mellow spice. Beautifully extracted. Good weight yet refined and elegant. Light in texture. Impressive.
- Tony Wood -
Elegantes Bouquet mit reifen roten und schwarzen Beeren, dahinter geht es erdig und würzig zu: Lakritz, Graphit und trüffelige Sous-Bois-Noten, dazu kommen florale und mit Luft auch ätherische Anklänge, sehr kom plex. Am Gaumen elegant und distinguiert mit einer guten, griffigen Frische. Ein finessenreicher Basis-Brunello, der die Vorzüge des Jahrgangs zeigt! [2026 – 2038]
- Giuseppe Lauria -
Leuchtendes Rubinrot, funkelnd. Duftend, saftige Kirsche in der Nase, nach süßem Gewürz, Brombeere, sehr fein und einladend, tief, getrocknete Blütenblätter. Saftig am Gaumen, mit toller Spannung und geschliffenem Tannin, mit Zug und klarer Frucht, griffiges Finish. Sehr gut gelungen, toller Brunello.
Brunello di Montalcino Trophy 2024
- Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler -
Produced from vineyards which are over 10 years old, it represents the essence of our concept of terroir: an expression of elegance, depth, and freshness of our Sangiovese, able to unite its balsamic quality of the north side of Montalcino with the opulence of our lands.
Brunello di Montalcino DOCG
Sangiovese 100%
Average of 300 Meters Above Sea Level
The vintage Brunello di Montalcino "Canalicchio di Sopra" is the result of a blend of two different soils: a terrain with a marked clay component, very rich in intermediate elements such as Magnesium, Iron and Manganese characteristic of the Cru Canalicchio and a "galestro" soil with a very high mineral component, loamy texture with a high presence of silt, characteristic of the Cru Montosoli.
The blend favors wines of great minerality and sapidity, supported by excellent acidity ideal for long aging.
Cordon trained and spur pruned (Spurrend cordon)
For our Brunello di Montalcino 2019, grapes from the estate cru vineyards were used (Canalicchio 50% and Montosoli 50%).
In steel tanks with fermentation temperature control, daily soft pumping over. Maceration on the skins for 25 days
36 months in slavonian Oak casks (2500 and 5000 Liters)
1966
2256 bottles - 375 ml
42354 bottles - 750 ml
1447 bottles - 1500 ml
103 bottles - 3000 ml
50 bottles - 5000 ml
5 bottles - 12000 ml
5 bottles - 18000 ml
15%
The weather in 2019 can be defined as a moderately warm year, never scorching hot, without excessive or prolonged heatwaves which benefitted from considerable diurnal temperature ranges, which favored significant photosynthesis of the plant in support of a perfect maturation.
The winter was characterized by very low temperatures. During the month of January, the minimum temperatures constantly dropped below zero, helping to cool the soil which was crucial for a regular start to the growing season as opposed to an early one. Precipitation levels in the months of January, February, and March were 100mm, not very high but sufficient enough to guarantee water reserves for the start of the growing season, which were already sufficient after a rainy autumn. April with 88mm of rainfall and May with 148mm were two rainy months, characterized by average seasonal temperatures without any violent meteorological events, allowing for an optimal management of the vineyards guaranteeing excellent reserves for the summer. The rain ended on May 29, and a dry period began which lasted until July 26, with the exception of very little rainfall. It was, for us, one of the key moments of the year: regular flowering, without rainfall, with mild temperatures that were never excessive which continued until the end of June guaranteeing steady growth while respecting the phenological phases of the vines, balanced and uniform, and guaranteeing the absence of fungal disease. The period from June 25 to July 9 saw the hottest period of the year with highs reaching 35° and with lows hovering between 15° and 17°. In these conditions, even with warmer temperatures, the vines were able to “breathe” each day thanks to the cool nights, and this guaranteed a proper and regular growing season. On July 27, a providential rainfall averted any water stress from the vines: the 60mm which fell on July 27 and 28 along with the 30mm between August 22 and 24 and the 12mm on September 1 ensured that the vines always had that quantity of water available, neither too little nor too much, what was necessary to continue on a regular growing cycle. During this time, the temperatures were quite normal, without any heatwaves that might have compromised the quality of the grapes as the color changed and, later, during the ripening phase, with maximum temperatures around 30°-32° still compensated by the diurnal temperatures ranges of 15°-20° each day, which completely prevented any burning. Before the start of the harvest, we had a final rainfall of about 90mm on September 22, which did not affect the quality of the grapes in any way. Actually, it helped rebalance and wash the grapes before coming into the cellar.
The results of all the weather indices confirmed and justified that 2019 was an exceptional harvest with a rating on the Fregoni Index of about 400 and on the Huglin index 2500 with total rainfall at 520mm.
2019: ELEGANT POWER
Referring to 2019 as one of the best vintages in recent decades, counting this vintage among the greatest in the Montalcino territory, we believe that this wouldn’t be a stretch, or even a misjudgment.
The 2019 vintage, from our point of view, respects those canons of “Elegant Power” which only vintages with great balance are able to give, raising the bar of balance and bringing with it a lot of everything: from perfect phenolic maturation which brings out the “Power” to the extraordinary technological maturation, which, thanks to the continuity of the optimal acid profile, accentuates the “Elegance”. Perpetually poised between showing its muscles and its grace, aspects which differ so much but also magically complement one other in a great wine that is meant to age for a long time, the 2019 surprises for its harmony and balance, which only great vintages are able to achieve.
As for every vintage, the result is the fruit of an agronomic journey, which, in 2019, was regular with regards to the water supply, generally warm but never scorching hot and with diurnal temperature ranges that favored maturation and concentration, safeguarding the freshness and fragrance. These conditions favored great expression in the bouquet where the pureness of the fruit is exalted by the classic balsamic notes of the north zone of Montalcino without ever overpowering the elegant florality, a distinctive trait in “Canalicchio di Sopra” wines. The ideal weather conditions gave rise to a two-dimensional harvest, succeeding in uniting opulence with the verticality in the wines, silkiness with minerality, sweetness with sapidity.
A distinctive feature of this vintage is the ability to reveal the territory, the nuances of individual vineyards and of the subzones where we cultivate our Sangiovese, in such a distinct and deep way that it brings out its differences and uniqueness.
The harvest started on September 26 in the youngest vineyards for the production of Rosso di Montalcino DOC and continued without interruption until October 6, on sunny days with great diurnal temperature ranges which allowed us to bring fresh and fragrant grapes into the cellar, simplifying regular fermentation with a long extraction period. The quality of the skins, rich in polyphenols and perfectly ripe, resulted in a vinification which saw the usual delicate operations of the initial pumping over and délestage, followed by a long period of maceration on the skins which, in many cases, lasted up to 35 days.
Brunello di Montalcino 2019 DOCG “Canalicchio di Sopra” is, as per tradition, 50% each from the two terroirs where our vineyards are located, Canalicchio and Montosoli. Our flagship wine, produced since 1966, is a quest for the perfect balance, striving to make these two areas complementary to one another.
The 2019 expresses itself with disruptiveness, envelopment, and freshness within the framework of great structure and elegance. The vintage brings out the balsamic nature, opulence, and minerality of our Sangiovese which move together in a vibrant and silky body.
The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino is a beautifully round and opulent wine that bursts open with vitality and a rush of immediate fruit. It shows lasting intensity with dried cherry, plum, blackberry, spice, leather and tobacco. Generally speaking, the aromas are soft and enduring. This wine offers enormous pleasure upfront and can be consumed within the next ten years. The wine is less adapted for long aging given the approachable tannins and ripe fruit flavors. In its current form, it is a delicious Brunello. Monica Larner
The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino will blow you away. This is a delightful expression that boasts its extreme quality from the minute the wine is poured from the bottle. As you should expect, it just gets better and better with each additional minute in the glass. It opens to a vibrant dark ruby color and blackish-garnet hues. The bouquet is ever changing and shows a long succession of aromatic characteristics that rage from dark fruit, plum, spice, leather, licorice, red rose, balsam and grilled herb. It's textbook Brunello from a great vintage and this side of the appellation (on the northeastern side) performs fantastically in 2010. This beauty should hold fifteen years or more. Monica Larner
The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino is a standout expression with long and polished notes of dried fruit and tobacco presented in a smooth and seamless fashion. It shows good structure and balance but an even prettier nose with ethereal balsam herbs, tar, licorice and pressed violets that emerge as the wine evolves in the glass. The wine hints at a greater evolution to come. Drink: 2017-2022. Monica Larner
The 2008 Brunello di Montalcino is fabulous. An exciting melange of dark cherries, plums, tobacco, licorice, mocha and herbs take shape in the glass. Powerful, rich and structured, the 2008 wraps around the palate with serious depth. The Canalicchio Brunellos often have an element of wildness to them, as does the 2008, but the wine also has a track record of aging very well. This is an intriguing Brunello, to say the least. The 2008 has more than enough depth to stand up to 36 months in cask. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2028. Canalicchio di Sopra is one of my favorite properties in Montalcino. The wines are consistently outstanding, have plenty of personality and also age beautifully. Antonio Galloni
Plump and bursting with cherry, strawberry and mineral aromas and flavors, this racy red evokes harmony and freshness, with hints of spice, chocolate and tobacco as it plays out gracefully on the long aftertaste. There's structure here, with all the components integrated. Best from 2020 through 2035. 2,870 cases made, 1,100 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is elegant and tight with dried cherry, earthy root, pressed violet and exotic spice. The wine's long mandatory aging period has added to its aromatic intensity and textural weight. You also recognize that special complexity that comes with Sangiovese when grown in this sunny appellation on the southern side of Tuscany. This is a solid wine with 36,237 bottles released.
-Monica Larner
This juicy red is highlighted by plum, black cherry, tomato leaf, eucalyptus and mineral flavors. Starts out ripe and balanced, turning drier on the tobacco- and spice-tinged finish. Vibrant and long. Best from 2025 through 2040.
- Bruce Sanderson -
Dusty violets, lavender and cloves accentuate dried black cherries as the dramatic 2019 Brunello di Montalcino smolders up from the glass. This is impossible to ignore, bursting with energy as depths of ripe red fruits, chalky minerals and exotic spices saturate all they touch, balanced by textures of pure silk. The 2019 finishes with fantastic length and concentration, leaving a staining of tart blackberry and hints of orange that curl the tongue as crunchy tannins tug at the palate. It's rare to see such a combination of vibrancy and power. Canalicchio di Sopra nailed it in 2019. Wow. Drinking window 2026-2042
Canalicchio di Sopra is high on my shortlist of favorite producers in Montalcino. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino is a sumptuous wine made according to carefully considered criteria. Every step of the winemaking process represents a selection of sorts, culminating in an expression of extremes. The precision, the focus and the pristine nature of the aromas cannot be exaggerated. It is such a pleasure to taste a wine of this caliber and distinction. Aromas of dark fruit and savory spice find seamless integration. Background tones of balsam herb, cola and licorice add a superior level of complexity. In the mouth, the wine is polished, fine and silky. The mouthfeel is thinner compared to 2011 and 2010. Otherwise, this is a fabulously elegant Brunello. Monica Larner
Aromas of dark berry, mint, savory herb, blue flower and a balsamic note lead the nose. On the concentrated palate, notes of white pepper, cinnamon, clove, licorice and tobacco add depth to the black cherry core. Youthfully austere but fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity support the juicy flavors. Give this time to open and develop complexity. KERIN O’KEEFE
Canalicchio di Sopra's 2013 Brunello di Montalcino is tight and firm at its core, with qualities that bode very well for its aging potential. That compact core is surrounded by many thick layers of dark fruit and spice that are expressive and expansive. Those outer layers give the wine softness and some immediate accessibility, even at this early stage in its life. All summed up, this is a very complete and characteristic Brunello that offers stunning quality for medium or long-term drinking.
- Monica Larner
Vivid medium-dark red. Hints at black and red fruits on the delicate, refined nose, complicated by nuances of violet and flint. Then smooth and suave in the mouth, with outstanding breadth to the blueberry, sour red cherry, potpourri and floral flavors. Penetrating minerality contributes to the lasting impression of precision and verve. The noble, mouth-coating tannins provide backbone and noteworthy aging potential to this extremely elegant, pure, dense wine. One of the top eight or so Brunellos of the 2013 vintage.
- Ian D'Agata
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is understated in the glass, as swirling brings forward nuances of mint, white pepper, dusty black cherries and flowery underbrush. This is a soft and delicate Brunello from Canalicchio di Sopra, also quite mineral in style, impressing with its smooth contours and finesse, while showing rose-tinged red berries and hints of spice. A coating of gentle tannin lingers through the medium-length finale, along with hints of licorice, as the mouth is left watering for more. The 2018 is a total charmer with a beautiful balance, bolstered by the juice that would usually go into the Riserva.
- Eric Guido
Canalicchio di Sopra has put out a strong set of Brunello from the 2018 vintage, including this particularly impressive 'classic' bottling. As is customary, it blends fruit from holdings on the hill of Montosoli with plots in Canalicchio. The most immediately expressive vintage I have tasted from the estate, the 2018 also packs plenty of promise. Iris, liquorice and balsamic notes are underscored by an alluring truffle accent. The palate is fluid and charming, with chalky tannins that sneak up but remain velvety. Sweet forest berries are countered by minty green freshness, and the finish is positively crisp with tangy cranberry.
- Michaela Morris
With a hint of candied cherry, grenadine or Shirley Temple, the Canalicchio di Sopra 2019 Brunello di Montalcino reveals purple blossom, dried flower, cough drop and balsam herb. The wine is very nicely stitched together with integrated oak that comes through in a structural way but not too much on the bouquet. The tannins do feel dry on the mid-palate, but they remain fine and tight. The alcohol is a bit high in this vintage at 15%. Production is 47,321 bottles. Drink Date 2025 - 2040.
- Monica Larner -
This red sets cherry, plum, earth, iron and underbrush flavors against a fleshy texture and firm structure. A fresh version, with refined tannins supporting the long finish. Best from 2027 through 2042, 1.147 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson -
Forest floor, dark-skinned berry, iris and new leather aromas lead the nose. The full-bodied juicy palate offers ripe wild cherry, star anise and a hint of pipe tobacco alongside taut, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2023–2030.KERIN O’KEEFE
Wild berry, dark spice and Mediterranean herb aromas lift out of the glass, accented by a whiff of new leather. The enveloping, full-bodied palate doles out fleshy black cherry, star anise, pipe tobacco and cinnamon notes, framed by chewy tannins. Drink 2020–2027. KERIN O’KEEFE
Here's a Brunello with thick concentration and broad aromas of mesquite smoke, black cherry and Indian spice. Despite that bold bouquet the wine is actually tight and compact in the mouth, where it performs with easy elegance thanks to its bright acidity and lively wild berry flavors.
On the northern slopes of Montalcino, Canalicchio di Sopra's Brunello is crafted from two plots. The home site is clay, rich in magnesium, iron and manganese, while Le Gode di Montosoli is distinguished as classic galestro. Gorgeously fresh and youthful, this has well-defined scents of pepper and fennel. The palate possesses similar vibrancy, where wild strawberry, mineral and balsamic notes build on the finish. Refined yet firm tannins give plenty of confidence for ageing.
- Michaela Morris
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino from Canalicchio di Sopra boasts great aromatics of wild rose, new leather forest floor and perfumed berry that align with whiffs of spice. It’s savory and loaded with finesse, featuring juicy red cherry, botanical herb, white pepper and iron mineral notes framed in taut, lithe tannins. Blending grapes from their Montosoli and Canalicchio vineyards created an ideal, natural balance. Drink through 2038.
- Kerin O'Keefe
Black cherry, black berry, and lead pencil on the nose. Some fresh bark too. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a fresh finish. Linear tannins. Drink after 2026.
- James Suckling -
A Brunello ‘vintage’ of balance and great tension of family Ripaccioli. All the varietal wealth of the northeast quadrant of the ‘hill’, black cherry, notes of clementine peel and laurel. Balsamic attack on the palate, with density and citrusy return. Closes on floral notes.
- Luca Gardini -
Deep ruby with orange tinges. Brooding raspberry with the merest suggestion of cardamon pod. Minty raspberry that grows in stature and concentration on the palate. Long, dramatic, aromatic finish with fine-grained tannins. Fantastic balance and precision. Drink 2026 – 2038.
- Walter Speller -
New leather, camphor, forest floor and exotic brown spice aromas lead the nose on the robust, savory 2019 Brunello from Canalicchio. This is a big, bold red, delivering liquor-soaked prune, succulent black cherry, licorice and tobacco alongside a backbone of firm, tightly woven tannins. You’ll also feel the warmth of alcohol on the close.
- Kerin O’Keefe -
After excellent showings from the 2018 vintage, Canalicchio di Sopra follows up with an impressive trio of 2019s. There is also a highly promising Riserva waiting in the wings... In the meantime, the current releases kick off with the estate Brunello, which is assembled from vines that are at least a decade old. It's a model of freshness and energy, backed by substance and staying power. Aromas of mint, lavender and tobacco lead to a radiant core of warm stone and red currants. The tannins are direct and linear, giving a firm grip to the dense fruit. Bitter citrus to finish. Drinking Window: 2025 - 2037
- Michaela Morris -
Canalicchio di Sopra’s Brunello epitomises the northern side of Montalcino, combining Canalicchio itself (a historical area with a high plane of calcareous, clay-rich soils) and the famed hill of Montosoli, with more free-draining galestro, both at middling altitudes of around 300m (985ft). The nose opens with malt biscuit and Earl Grey tea over strawberry fruit of a cedary refinement. The landing is more reserved, its glassy translucency reveals smoky notes of tea leaf and incense resins, with subtle allusions to cranberry fruit and quite an unyielding, taut structure. With its ferrous finish, polished plaster tannins and linear acidity, it feels a little cerebral and withholding at present. This reflects proprietor and winemaker Francesco Ripaccioli’s preference for wines that are reductive-leaning (though not pungent) in youth, opening relatively slowly after their 36 months in untoasted oak botti. Drink 2026 – 2039.
- Sarah Heller MW -
Wild berry, leafy underbrush, truffle, scorched earth and dark spice aromas unfold on this classic red. The full-bodied palate offers fleshy black cherry, clove, ground pepper and anise alongside firm, ripe tannins. Let the tannins unwind for a few more years then enjoy. KERIN O’KEEFE
Opening aromas recall underbrush, red berry, white mushroom, truffle and thyme with a whiff of leather. The palate offers restrained wild cherry accented with white pepper, mint and sage alongside tightly knit tannins. While the tannins need to unwind, this wine isn't made for long-term cellaring. Drink 2015–2019. KERIN O’KEEFE
Coffee, leather, licorice and plum cake flavors are deeply concentrated on this rich, opulent wine. There's fruit here too, in the form of cherry liqueur and blackberry pie. This is a robust and generous wine that will appeal to those who appreciate a darker side of Brunello.
This is a nicely balanced wine with bright cherry and berry flavors that are offset by sweet spice, almond and toasted oak. The wood elements already show integration and will continue to diminish with time. Give this wine five or so more years of cellar aging.
Here's a tight and compact expression from Montalcino with bright tones of cherry wood, wild berries and violets that are delivered in steady aromatic pulses. The finish is not too long or persistent, but the flavors are fresh and very tasty while they last.
Ripe berry and cherry aromas with hints of spices and cedar. Dried flowers, too. Full-bodied, dense and layered. Fantastic richness and depth. Long, long finish. Best ever. Try after 2022.
- James Suckling
With this wine, Canalicchio di Sopra marks its 50th vintage of Brunello. It is a superb tip of the hat to founder Primo Pacenti by his highly capable grandchildren Francesco, Marco and Simonetta Ripaccioli, who now run the property. It expresses gradually and graciously both on the nose and the palate with wild flowers, forest berries and fresh earth emerging out of a sapid and minerally core. Brilliantly mid-weight but not lacking depth, this demonstrates brightness of fruit, delectable acidity, plenty of fine-grained tannins and a lingering finish.
- Michaela Morris
This bottle marks the special 50th anniversary of this wine. A little red sticker on the front label commemorates the five decades that have passed since grandfather Primo Pacenti did his first harvest. The medium-weight Canalicchio di Sopra 2015 Brunello di Montalcino shows a generous spread of forest fruit, licorice, blue flower, bay leaf, Provence herbs and fragrant wet soil aromas. There is a touch of earthy muskiness that some like to refer to as "foxy." Fruit for this Brunello represents a selection of clusters harvested over 10 hectares at 300 to 320 meters above sea level in two sites: Canalicchio and Montosoli. Canalicchio has clay soils for the structure of the wine, and Montosoli adds to the clarity of the aromas. All the vines are over 10 years old. Fermentation is in stainless steel, and aging spans 36 months in Slavonian oak casks. This wine from the warm and sunny 2015 vintage maintains its trademark crispness and freshness nonetheless. This vintage is available in bottles of various sizes, with more large formats filled to celebrate this 50th anniversary. It was bottled in May 2019 (37,520 750-millilter bottles were produced, not counting the large formats) and released in January 2020.
- Monica Larner
The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino from Canalicchio di Sopra - Ripaccioli is superb. The nose is dark and mineral-inflected with a blast of crushed raspberry, cherry and darker blackberry fruits wafting up from the glass, as sweet florals, underscored by moist soil and hints of cedar amass. On the palate, silky, almost creamy textures, offset by a stunning mix of salty-minerals and acids with savory herbs, and inner earth tones tempted the senses for another sip. The finish is remarkably long, resonating on minerals and dark fruits, almost balsamic and spicy, as its tannic structure comes forward and reminds me that this Brunello is still just a baby. What a gorgeous expression of Sangiovese.
- Eric Guido
Firm and tightly wound for now, yet features a solid beam of cherry and strawberry fruit, graced by iron, sanguine and leather accents. Lively acidity infuses this intense red with energy, driving the long finish. Best from 2023 through 2042. 3,127 cases made, 1,290 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Tasted blind. Lustrous mid ruby. Brooding yet quite closed on the nose. Ripe and sweet and at the same time tangy and elegant. It has everything: lots of tangy fruit, gripping tannins and elegant palate weight.
- Walter Speller
The Canalicchio di Sopra 2016 Brunello di Montalcino shows balance and symmetry with that difficult twofold delivery of power and elegance. This terrific new release shows dark fruit and tart cherry, but then unwinds slowly to reveal light spice, toasted nut, blue flower and crushed limestone. The wine affords a genuine sense of place with roots in the northern half of the appellation where the light is whiter and the nights are cooler. That brilliant luminosity appears in the pure quality of fruit and the sharp focus of the mouthfeel, driven by balanced tannins and acidity. The sensation it gives is compact and long, without too much extra volume or padding. This wine is like a contoured, chiseled and carefully polished marble statue that you would see in a Renaissance church. Production is an ample 44,218 bottles.
- Monica Larner
The 2016 Canalicchio di Sopra Brunello di Montalcino is flat-out stunning, remarkably vibrant and an almost-ethereal expression. There’s an exotic citrusy tinge to its ripe black cherries, taking on hints of sage, cedar and allspice, all grounded by moist earth tones. It’s focused and remarkably pure with a noticeable inner sweetness to the red and hints of blackberry fruit, all cast across a silky, feminine frame. The structure builds like a crescendo, as minerals fade to youthful tannins. Juicy acids maintain perfect balance from start to finish, making for a surprisingly fresh expression yet with amazing length. There’s simply so much going on here, and there are promises of more good things to come.
- Eric Guido
A dusty, tannic red with plum, red berry and cedar, chocolate and walnut undertones. It’s full-bodied, yet reserved and tight with ultra fine tannins and a vivid finish. A pretty, polished red. Drink after 2022.
- James Suckling
Mid ruby with some brick at the rim. More fruit sweetness but also more developed undergrowth compared with the Altesino Montosoli. Opens to a pretty floral fragrance. Firm, sweet and chewy, the fruit filling out the core. Young and lovely and so moreish.
- Julia Harding MW
Dark red cherries, plums, spices, mint, licorice and hard candy jump from the glass in the estate's 2010 Brunello di Montalcino. Ripe, juicy and deeply expressive, the 2010 boasts stunning mid-palate density. Even with all of its immediacy and voluptuousness, the 2010 has enough structure to drink well for another 20+ years. The Canalicchio Brunellos always offer power, but the 2010 overlays tons of finesse to round things out.
- Antonio Galloni
Dark red cherries, plums, spices, mint, licorice and hard candy jump from the glass in the estate's 2010 Brunello di Montalcino. Ripe, juicy and deeply expressive, the 2010 boasts stunning mid-palate density. Even with all of its immediacy and voluptuousness, the 2010 has enough structure to drink well for another 20+ years. The Canalicchio Brunellos always offer power, but the 2010 overlays tons of finesse to round things out.
- James Suckling
Deep ruby with narrow orange rim. Quite herbal and savoury more than fruity at first, and really closed. Tightly packed fruit palate and richly tannic. A little austere at the moment, yet elegant and with real ageing potential.
- Walter Speller
A solid red, displaying cooked plum and cherry flavors on a bed of dense tannins. Tight and compact on the finish, where youthful, exuberant tannins reign. Stays long and balanced in the end. Best from 2019 through 2034. 3,333 cases made, 1,250 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino is a gorgeous, striking wine. Sweet macerated cherries, tobacco, licorice, spice and mint are all laced together in a super-expressive, resonant Brunello endowed with real class. Open-knit and seductive, the 2011 will drink well with minimal cellaring. This is an especially delicate, sensual Brunello that speaks to the finesse that is possible on the northern side of Montalcino, and a terrific example of the year at its very best. With time in the glass, the 2011 starts to shut down, which may be a very good sign of its potential longevity. In any event, the 2011 Brunello is a winner. Proprietor Francesco Ripaccioli gave the 2011 a bit less time in oak than is customary. Production was just 28,000 bottles as opposed to the 50,000 bottles that were produced between the straight Brunello and Riserva in 2010 (there is no Riserva in 2011.)
- Antonio Galloni
A silky, refined red with plum, berry and cherry aromas and flavors. Full body. Lots of ripe fruit but not overdone. Chewy with polished tannins and a refined finish. Really excellent for the vintage. Needs a year or two to soften: better in 2017.
- James Suckling
Tasted blind. Maturing ruby with orange rim. A little bit stalky, but with brooding fruit underneath. The fruit makes quite a big impact on the palate, but is wonderfully matched by lots of grainy tannins and juicy acidity. A tiny bit singed, but overall irresistible.
- Walter Speller
A perfumed version, this reveals cherry, strawberry, spice and leather flavors, with briar and tobacco accents. Firm and a bit gruff on the finish, but this hangs together in the end. Best from 2018 through 2027. 2,361 cases made, 700 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Luminous red. Intense aromas of red cherry, licorice and tar are complicated by a strong note of torrefaction. Deep dense and suave, with youthfully chewy tannins and a slightly herbal nuance to the dark plum and coffee flavors. Still more notes of torrefaction and coffee emerge with aeration. This brooding, strapping Brunello will require patience.
- Ian D'Agata
Wonderfully aromatic and fresh with plum, flower and citrus character. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a delicious finish. So much finesse. Drink or hold.
- James Suckling
Tasted blind. Mid to deep ruby with orange tinges. Lifted, peppery and full nose, but not entirely open. Gorgeous cherry fruit tightly packed with tannins. Finely tuned like a sports car, if really tannic for the moment.
- Walter Speller
Loads of balsamic aromas and flavors—juniper, rosemary, thyme, olive—along with cherry, sanguine and tobacco notes are the hallmarks of this intense red. Well-integrated and complex, building to a long aftertaste. Best from 2021 through 2035. 3,400 cases made, 1,250 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Ripe berry and dried orange peel character follow through to a full body, round and velvety tannins and a juicy finish. A more fruit-forward style for this estate. Better in 2019.
- James Suckling
Maturing ruby with bright orange tinges. Still a little closed on the nose and with compact fruit that is slow to unfurl on the palate. Impressive balance and concentration. Spicy cherry fruit on the finish and powerful tannins. Put this away for a couple of years.
- Walter Speller
The 2014 Brunello di Montalcino definitely shows the more accessible and easy-drinking side of this celebrated Sangiovese-based appellation in southern Tuscany. The wine offers all the prerequisite Brunello characteristics of wild berry and tobacco with pressed violets and fresh potting soil. However, those characteristics are presented at a notch or two of decreased intensity. This is quality common to the great majority of Brunellos I tasted from the 2014 vintage. I recommend this wine to lovers of Brunello looking for a wine to drink within the next ten years. Some 15,037 bottles were made.
- Monica Larner
Good deep red. Perfumed aromas of musky raspberry, cherry cola spices and flowers. Round and deep in the mouth, with lovely sweetness and a light touch to the red fruit and cedar flavors. Finishes long, pure and linear. The youthful, chewy but noble tannins will reward mid-term aging.
- Ian D'Agata
There’s good energy in this Brunello with quite ripe red-fruit aromas leading to a palate that has handsomely grainy tannins and an impressively deep, red-cherry core. Nice structure and build. Drink or hold.
- James Suckling
Francesco Ripaccioli called the 2014 harvest never-ending. After dropping any unhealthy grapes mid-September, 80% of what remained was picked for the Rosso on 25 September. The Brunello harvest, beginning on 5 Oct, consisted of only the smallest, most concentrated bunches, which in other years would 'give marmalade', notes Ripaccioli. The resulting wine is one of the successes of the vintage. Quite piercing and perfumed, its floral and red fruit tones are countered by touches of smoke and earth which linger remarkably. There's plenty of nerve and fine-boned tannin to support. Without lacking substance, this captures Sangiovese's glorious lightness of being.
- Michaela Morris
This fragrant red opens with scents that evoke violet, rose, perfumed berry and an earthy whiff of damp soil. On the lithe palate, you'll find sour cherry, pomegranate and star anise set against polished tannins. Vibrant acidity lends balance and energy. Drink through 2024.
- Kerin 0'Keefe
Pale to mid ruby. Very pure, direct, aromatic nose of definitely ripe fruit – impressive! Good build with light tannins and just the right amount of acidity. Arguably more Sangiovese than old-school Brunello but none the worse for that.
- Jansis Robinson
Lean and sinewy, with savory flavors of loam, soy, tobacco and woodsy spice surrounding a core of cherry fruit. Subtle and firm, finishing with mineral and woodsy spice accents. Best from 2020 through 2032. 1,550 cases made, 300 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Another great interpretation for this firm. On the nose, alcohol-infused marasca cherries with touch of undergrowth from fresh marjoram. Balsamic in the mouth, a pleasant juiciness and tautness. Officinal fresh notes returning on the finish.
- Luca Gardini
Spicy nose for this very fine Brunello: fresh spices, alcohol-infused cherries, blackberries. A wonderful acidity emphasized in the mouthfeel that is ample, with perfectly integrated tannins for an impressive persistence.
- Luca Gardini
Great and decisive tannic sharpness for this product which is, also this one, of great aging potential. Its nose is very variegated, with leather, freshlycut grass aromas and a balsamic but not excessively marked end. It seems mostly fresh, breezy and irreverent while drinking. Its age will enrich it with wisdom and (perhaps) truth
- Luca Gardini
Violet, some touches half way between mint and rose, and a red ripe fruit are the sensations that characterize the nose. It does not have a great opening or communicative ability, at least in the initial part of the sip, which remains anchored to tones of violet and sour cherry. From mid sip on, it extends in a soft key, thanks to the appearance of a nice range of spices. Vivacious tannins of an acidic mix.
- Luca Gardini
Brunello from the Northern side. Fruity aromas that do not translate only the roughness of mixed berries but instead flank them with smoother impressions of peach, yellow-fleshed fruit, and plums. A measured taste, once again fruity, even if enriched by the spiciness of red peppercorn and nutmeg. Refined tannic texture.
- Luca Gardini
Intense aromas of underbrush, wild berry, new leather and pipe tobacco lead the way on this fragrant Brunello. Full bodied and elegantly structured, the savory palate features ripe morello cherry, licorice and truffle before a black-tea finish. Firm, refined tannins and fresh acidity keep balanced and give it an ageworthy structure. Drink 2024–2036. - CELLAR SELECTION
- Kerin O’Keefe
Luscious black cherry is the main theme in this racy red, accented by plum, licorice, tar and iron. This is dense, turning more austere as the tannins take hold of the long finish. Shows fine energy, balance and potential. Best from 2025 through 2048.
- Bruce Sanderson
A blend of the Montosoli (60%) and Canalicchio (40%) crus.
Lustrous mid ruby. Closed, with minerally hints. Fantastic focus, concentration and balance and totally poised. Very pure, with long tannins. Enormous concentration yet not heavy. Very young but already irresistible.
-Walter Speller
Canalicchio di Sopra’s estate Brunello is a blend of plots from its home base in Canalicchio, as well as holdings on the Montosoli hill. The 2016 allies the restrained fleshiness of the former and the salinity of the latter with a balsamic dash. Scents of lilac and bay laurel turn to pure dark cherry on the palate, which is laced with liquorice and stone. Suave tannins maintain a grainy grip and there is no lack of mouthwatering acidity. Thrilling umami finish!
Drinking Window 2023 - 2035
- Michaela Morris
"This shows beautiful balance and drinkability, with firm and slightly
chewy tannins, yet the fruit is pure and flavorful. Some bark and
crushed-stone undertones. Very drinkable now, but better in 2023."
- James Suckling
Deciso e ricco di carattere mostra note miste floreali e fruttate che ricordano i fiori di ibisco, i gerani, la passiflora, le mandorle tritate ed il caramello dolce. Corpo medio-pieno, tannini morbidi di piacevole grana fine ed un finale succoso e balsamico di notevole bellezza. Meglio dal 2022.
- Raffaele Vecchione
The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is wildly perfumed, dusty and exotic, with balsam herbs, savory spices, red currants and plums coming across as so pretty yet rich and potent. A silky display of sour wild berries contrasted by candied citrus wows the senses as the 2017 plays a zesty sweet-and-sour act upon the palate. It’s long, youthfully chewy, yet still remarkably fresh, with rosy florals and tart, tart cherries giving way to chiseled tannins through the finale. This is a beautiful rendition of the 2017 vintage, one that takes the dry warmth of the year and expresses it with tremendous energy and verve. What's more, I revisited this bottle over the course of 36 hours and it only got better with time.
- Eric Guido
Considering the location of Canalicchio di Sopra’s vineyards to the east and north of Montalcino there should be every reason to think that 2017 would not pose the problem to making a top Annata. Francesco Ripaccioli would likely smile that wry smile when he knows that the year was in fact a magnanimous challenge but he would also follow up with that confident smile of this. Ripaccioli has the fortune and the instincts, to mix and match, to layer and compliment, to figure with mathematical precision and this wine expresses all that an more. There is cut and linearity, a finest architectural line and a freshness that belies what heat might want to take control. A fine classico for Montalcino that speaks to the best of all worlds within. Drink 2023-2030. Tasted November 2021.
- Michael Godel
Another success in the path of the Ripaccioli family in search of the best possible quality. Nose of pomegranate, with notes of fresh thyme and touches of carnation. The mouthfeel is taut, with excellent density, salty tannins and a nice persistence.
- Luca Gardini
Absolutely smooth and precise as is common with all the wines of Canalicchio di Sopra, I love the purity in this wine, all up front gorgeous fruit aromas and flavours, but there are still elements of complexity that linger long in your memory and taste buds. The vintage was a great one in Montalcino and owner Francesco Ripaccioli made one sensational wine after another.
- Ian D'Agata
Canalicchio di Sopra began harvesting Brunello on 25 September - just one day earlier than in 2016. Francesco Ripaccioli credits the significant diurnal temperature differences during the preceding month for measured ripening as well as preservation of acidity. The estate Brunello, which is a blend of vineyards in the Montosoli and Canalicchio zones, starts with smoky, flinty notes then gives way to intense herb blossoms. The palate is where it really struts its stuff at the moment, particularly the texture. It grips confidently in all the right places. Packed with flavours of small forest berries and dusty gravel, it finishes with a refreshing salty kick. Drinking Window 2023 - 2031
- Michaela Morris
As you drive downhill from the hamlet of Montalcino on its north side, you pass the Canalicchio di Sopra winery, which is located in a shallow, sun-lit basin of vines. This estate is meticulous and studied in its winemaking philosophy, and the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is an expression of that concentration. This warm-climate Brunello reveals awesome purity and intensity with wild cherry, almond and lilac spread over a tonic, mid-weight finish. This wine awards plenty of elegance in a vintage that was not easy and not prone to such nuance. Production is exactly 39,989 bottles.
-Monica Larner
Aromas of underbrush, blue flowers and ripe black-skinned fruit mingle with new leather. The concentrated, full-bodied palate doles out ripe plum, fleshy black cherry, star anise and tobacco set against velvety, enveloping tannins. A great performance for the scorching vintage, you won't have to wait long before enjoying this, but it will also offer years of fine drinking. Drink 2023–2029.
- Kerin O’Keefe
This red bursts with sweet, ripe cherry and plum fruit, with tobacco, leather and mineral elements adding depth as it builds to a lingering conclusion. Shows fine balance, a vibrant structure and excellent length. Spicy aftertaste. Best from 2024 through 2042.
- Bruce Sanderson
Just mid ruby. Some development on the nose with hints of forest floor but with quite pure cherry fruit underneath. Concentrated, focused cherry palate with a minty edge and bags of chewy tannins. Very long and gripping finish.
- Walter Speller
Reviewed by Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler
Warmduftige Nase nach Kirschen und Veilchen; saftiger Auftakt, die Tannine und die Säure in perfekter Symbiose, viel Saft und Schmelz bis ins Finale. Ein Allrounder.
- Christian Eder
Ruby red in colour. Sour berries vie with candid citrus fruits. Aromatics of sweet perfumed florals and spice have you rolling from side to side. Silky soft textures perform aerobatics on the mid palate. Contains the ‘Big Bang” of energy at its core. Brunello 2017 vintage…I can’t believe it!!!
- Tony Wood
Another refined Brunello from this winery succesfully led by Francesco Ripaccioli. North-western side of the ‘hill’. To the nose it opens with marasca cherries in alcohol, then nuances of rhubarb and linden. Equally balsamic to the palate, with juicy and dense-crisp tannins. Officinal return on the closure.
- Luca Gardini
Three years of cask ageing.
Lustrous mid ruby with orange tinges. Finely spiced raspberry, but more savoury than fruity. Hints of cinnamon bark and cherry. Supple yet lively displaying great purity of fruit and super-fine sandy tannins clinging to the fruit. Tannic chew and freshness.
- Walter Speller
Perfumed nose of neroli, bergamot, sandalwood, cherry stones and plums. Full-bodied and richly fruity with gently grainy tannins. Drink after 2023.
- James Suckling
Il frutto maturo esplode da ogni “angolo” del calice. Le note di prugne rosse, fragole, caramello dolce, incenso e cumino mostrano energia e carattere e raccontano nel migliore dei modi il Versante Nord di Montalcino nella località Canalicchio. Corpo medio, tannini perfettamente lineari di incredibile bellezza ed un finale che mostra succo e qualità del frutto impressionante. Meglio dal 2024.
- Raffaele Vecchione
Enstablished in 1992 by Primo Pacenti and one of the 12 founding members of the Brunello Consorzio, Canalicchio di Sopra owns a magnificent 60ha property on the north side of Montalcino, of which 19ha are planted to vines. With its pure, elegant perfume, Canalicchio di Sopra’s 2018 is a marvelously composed wine, with silky-firm texture, fine but firm tannins, succulent, fresh acids, and terrific length. I love the harmony and balance, the lingering, perfumed finish. A very fine wine that will please early on, even now, though surely age gracefully into the ‘30s. Grace and sophistication personified.
-John Szabo
Medium ruby red in colour. White cherry, wild strawberry, goji berries, dry floral underbrush, a dusting of exotic spice, salty liquorice and a hint of cedar balm. Focused. Balanced. Precise. Finely etched minerality. Very persistent intense finish.
- Tony Wood -
Brunello di Montalcino Trophy 2023
- Wolfgang M. Rosam, Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler -
Elegantes, zurückhaltendes Bouquet mit reifen roten und blauen Beeren, dahinter geht es erdig und würzig zu: Liebstöckel, Graphit und trüffelige Sous-Bois-Noten, dazu kommen florale und mit Luft auch ätherische Anklänge, sehr komplex und changierend. Am Gaumen elegant und dicht gewoben, mit feinen ätherischen Noten und einer guten, griffigen Frische. Wie so oft: Ein starker, klassischer Basis-Brunello!
Bright ruby red in colour. Aromas of red fruits and berries and white florals. Compact, forest floor, dried mushroom and blonde tobacco. Savoury. Juicy. Slate minerality. Tannins provide structure that texture, acidity and balance interplay. Still showing youthful tendencies. Linear close.
- Tony Wood -
Deep ruby red in colour with light amber rim. Super concentration of red cherry, berries, blood orange, prune and spice. Earthy notes. Fully placed on its plateau, full bodied but not heavy, white smoke and roast meat notes on the medium length finish.
- Tony Wood -
Bright medium red. Linear red cherry, plum, tar, licorice and violet aromas. Currently youthful and still chunky, with deep flavours similar to the aromas, this will develop nicely in a good cellar and reveal a complex, multilayered personality. Finishes long and with very smooth tannins.
- Ian D'Agata -
Guida 2024 - sezione "Vini da vitigni autoctoni"
Rauchig-würziges Bouquet mit einer schönen Liaison aus reifer rot- und schwarz beeriger Frucht und floral- und kräuterwürzigen Noten, dahinter getrocknete Veilchen und Zedernwürze. Am Gaumen mit saftig-jugendlicher Frucht, fast kühl und griffig wirkend, feinsandiges Tannin, kraftvoll und dicht gewoben, langes, würziges Finale. 2025 – 2036
- Giuseppe Lauria -
Canalicchio is northeast of Montalcino, criss-crossed by man-made canals, and is known for its clay soils and cooler aspects. Canalicchio di Sopra blends the grapes from around its winery with those from estate vineyards in Montosoli, the other hill northeast of Montalcino, which is drier with warmer western aspects and stonier soils. The blend produces a vibrant nose with notes of fresh bing cherry, and earthy smatterings of underbrush and rust. The cherry fruit is lifted by 2018’s effusive acidity and after it balloons on to the front palate is followed by a meaty savouriness. Tactile ridges of tannin run from mid-palate back, overlaid with a bitterness that balances out the ebullience of the entry.
- Sarah Heller MW -
Assolutamente intrigante e nobile nella matrice principale mostra note miste floreali e fruttate che ricordano il giacinto, le prugne rosse, le fragoline di bosco, il melograno, la buccia di limone, i mirtilli pressati e le foglie di tè nero. In sottofondo cola e bergamotto descrivono la scena secondaria di grande cifra stilistica. Corpo medio, tannini morbidi di ottima grana fine ed un finale sottile e delicato leggermente amaricante in chiusura. Meglio dal 2025.
- Raffaele Vecchione -
Vitae, La Guida Vini 2024 - X edizione
The most recent plantings at Canalicchio were executed in 2009 next to the 1990 La Casaccia vineyard. These vines are maturing and will likely seek entrance into the Vigna label but for now they are picked for this classic Brunello. They may not be grapes of enigma or mystery but they are the epitome of purity and the Brunello represents a high-casted estate style to explain so much about the house of Ripaccioli and Canalicchio di Sopra. The 2019 Brunello is a wine of silkiness but not opulence. A sangiovese that is an extension of a producer’s hands and there is no separating the wine from its maker. As for place well yes because all the vineyards are close enough to one another to combine for unmistakable identity. Drink 2023-2026.
- Michael Godel -
Luminous red. Open-knit red plum, blood orange and red cherry aromas and flavours are complemented by hints of tobacco and herbs. Closes smooth and ripe, with very good palate presence. Drinking window: 2024-2039.
- Ian D'Agata -
Medium ruby red in colour. Intense aromas of blue florals including violet, hyacinth and bluebell, assisted with cedar shavings, liquorice and distant mocha notes. Wild cherry, strawberry, loganberry, blood orange, balsamic notes, complex layered minerality. The entry, can be described as “an iron hand in a velvet glove.” Secondary notes of warm plum and mellow spice. Beautifully extracted. Good weight yet refined and elegant. Light in texture. Impressive.
- Tony Wood -
Elegantes Bouquet mit reifen roten und schwarzen Beeren, dahinter geht es erdig und würzig zu: Lakritz, Graphit und trüffelige Sous-Bois-Noten, dazu kommen florale und mit Luft auch ätherische Anklänge, sehr kom plex. Am Gaumen elegant und distinguiert mit einer guten, griffigen Frische. Ein finessenreicher Basis-Brunello, der die Vorzüge des Jahrgangs zeigt! [2026 – 2038]
- Giuseppe Lauria -
Leuchtendes Rubinrot, funkelnd. Duftend, saftige Kirsche in der Nase, nach süßem Gewürz, Brombeere, sehr fein und einladend, tief, getrocknete Blütenblätter. Saftig am Gaumen, mit toller Spannung und geschliffenem Tannin, mit Zug und klarer Frucht, griffiges Finish. Sehr gut gelungen, toller Brunello.
Brunello di Montalcino Trophy 2024
- Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler -
Produced from vineyards which are over 10 years old, it represents the essence of our concept of terroir: an expression of elegance, depth, and freshness of our Sangiovese, able to unite its balsamic quality of the north side of Montalcino with the opulence of our lands.
DOCG
Sangiovese 100%
Average of 300 Meters Above Sea Level
The vintage Brunello di Montalcino "Canalicchio di Sopra" is the result of a blend of two different soils: Terrain with a marked clay component, very rich in intermediate elements such as Magnesium, Iron and Manganese characteristic of the Cru Canalicchio and a "galestro" soil high with a very high mineral component, loamy texture with a high presence of silt, characteristic of the Cru Montosoli.
The blend favors wines of great minerality and sapidity, supported by excellent acidity ideal for long aging.
Cordon trained and spur pruned (Spurrend cordon)
For our Brunello di Montalcino 2018, grapes from the estate cru vineyards were used (Canalicchio 50% and Montosoli 50%).
In steel tanks with fermentation temperature control, daily soft pumping over. Maceration on the skins for 25 days
36 months in slavonian Oak casks (2500 and 5000 Liters)
1966
1620 Bottles by 375 ml
33247 Bottles by 750 ml
870 Bottles by 1500 ml
80 Bottles by 3 liters
3 Bottles by 12 liters
3 Bottles by 18 liters
14.50%
From a climactic point of view, 2018 can be defined as a fresh year with above-average rainy trends compared to previous years, but which benefited from the effects of the wind in the month of September, which was a precious ally in guaranteeing proper balance in the weight of the grapes, bringing technological and phenolic balance. The winemaker’s choice to leave on the vines the quantity of grapes necessary for “big” maturation in the perspective of balance between structure and acidity was fundamental.
The winter was characterized by abundant precipitation (which re-balanced the water reserves in the soil that had been dried out by arid conditions in 2017) and cooler temperatures which ensured a subsequent vegetative regrowth with optimal healthy vines.
Spring saw cool temperatures and rainfall which delayed the bud break and flowering a few days.
Summer was characterized by high but never scorching temperatures that only rarely peaked above 30°C. Temperatures did reach 30°C practically every day from mid-June to the end of August and ensured a regular and continuous maturation in the vines. Apart from 2-3 days of the highest temperatures at 35°-36°C, the summer was consistently mild with significant diurnal temperature ranges that guaranteed a constant and uniform technological maturation.
In the first two weeks of September, there were big two rainfalls of 20mm on September 1 and 35mm on September 17. These rains could have compromised the quality of the vintage with an increase in the weight of the bunches and the natural dilution of the concentration and structure of the grapes. Fortunately, the Tramontana and Grecale winds from the north and northeast which accompanied the rainfall effectively dried out the excess water load from the bunches and brought the weight of the berries into balance, ensuring an optimal concentration and protecting the acidity at the same time.
In the 30 days preceding the harvest, there were significant diurnal temperature ranges which guaranteed the achievement of an elevated value on the Fregoni Index (above 500) which places the vintage among those with great ageing potential.
The harvest took place from September 28 to October 5 under sunny skies with significant diurnal temperature ranges and nighttime temperatures that were often below 10°C, which allowed us to bring healthy grapes into the cellar with an aromatic profile that was floral and fragrant with an optimal pureness of the fruit.
2018: A TRANSPARENT VINTAGE
We like to define the 2018 vintage as a TRANSPARENT vintage, wanting to capture the meaning of this term that refers to this vintage’s great capacity to let the uniqueness and the characteristics of the lands where the wines originated transpire in each bottle. In the concept of valorization, which is at the heart of our productive philosophy, several factors come into play: HUMAN EXPERIENCE, CLIMATE AND THE TERRAIN. We believe that the 2018 vintage clearly and distinctly brings out the third component, the TERRAIN, having been, in complete contrast to the latest vintages, a cooler and slightly rainier than average vintage in which the climate did not have a uniform standardizing effect but, on the contrary, let the features of the different soil types where the grapes originated “transpire” in the wine. Daring to make a comparison, the 2018 presents as a mix centered around the elegance and the tension between the fresh 2008 vintage and the classic 2013 vintage, creating a perfect balance between the two which translates into freshness, minerality, and tannin length without neglecting fullness and depth: a perfect mix to classify 2018 as a wine for long ageing and also of great pleasure that pairs extremely well.
In every vintage, there are two turning points, crucial moments which characterize the final result, its identity, and its main qualities: moments without which the results would have been very different. The turning point in the 2018 vintage came before the harvest when the Grecale and Tramontana winds from the north and northeast started blowing continuously and strongly, concentrating the grapes which, until that moment, had been slightly above average in weight after the rains in September. These conditions resulted in the drying and loss of a percentage of water that balanced the technological and phenolic maturation, ensuring optimal balance and maturation while preserving the acidity at the same time. Sunny days with significant diurnal temperature ranges during the harvest ensured an aromatic profile in the grapes that was floral and elegant, fresh and balsamic, that connects with a vibrant and full palate, long and sapid that plays on pleasantness and balance. The practice of reducing the bunches, removing those that were behind in maturation, in addition to a meticulous selection on the sorting table in the cellar guaranteed concentration and optimal phenolic maturation in the grapes that were brought into the cellar.
The harvest, precisely for of its quality of freshness, started a little later than the trend in previous years, during a period of cooler temperatures from September 28 to October 5.
The 2018 harvest was the first in the new Canalicchio di Sopra cellar, which was inaugurated specifically for the harvest.
The 2018 Canalicchio di Sopra Brunello di Montalcino DOCG is, as per tradition, a blend with 50% of the two terroirs on which our vineyards are located. From the style of a fresh and “transparent” vintage comes a wine which reveals the characteristics of the two terrains and the two microzones in a clear and complementary way: if from Montosoli comes the tension and sapidity and that touch of floral notes which characterize the hill, from Canalicchio comes the silkiness of the tannins, its fullness, and that balsamic note, which also comes from the significant diurnal temperature ranges right before the harvest and the cold nights during the harvest which ensured fragrance and acidity in the wine. In this vintage, the wine was enhanced by the choice of not producing our Riserva. Consequently, the grapes from the Vigna Vecchia Mercatale vineyard were used in the assemblage of our Brunello Classico, giving the wine the depth of this vineyard.
The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino is a beautifully round and opulent wine that bursts open with vitality and a rush of immediate fruit. It shows lasting intensity with dried cherry, plum, blackberry, spice, leather and tobacco. Generally speaking, the aromas are soft and enduring. This wine offers enormous pleasure upfront and can be consumed within the next ten years. The wine is less adapted for long aging given the approachable tannins and ripe fruit flavors. In its current form, it is a delicious Brunello. Monica Larner
The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino will blow you away. This is a delightful expression that boasts its extreme quality from the minute the wine is poured from the bottle. As you should expect, it just gets better and better with each additional minute in the glass. It opens to a vibrant dark ruby color and blackish-garnet hues. The bouquet is ever changing and shows a long succession of aromatic characteristics that rage from dark fruit, plum, spice, leather, licorice, red rose, balsam and grilled herb. It's textbook Brunello from a great vintage and this side of the appellation (on the northeastern side) performs fantastically in 2010. This beauty should hold fifteen years or more. Monica Larner
The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino is a standout expression with long and polished notes of dried fruit and tobacco presented in a smooth and seamless fashion. It shows good structure and balance but an even prettier nose with ethereal balsam herbs, tar, licorice and pressed violets that emerge as the wine evolves in the glass. The wine hints at a greater evolution to come. Drink: 2017-2022. Monica Larner
The 2008 Brunello di Montalcino is fabulous. An exciting melange of dark cherries, plums, tobacco, licorice, mocha and herbs take shape in the glass. Powerful, rich and structured, the 2008 wraps around the palate with serious depth. The Canalicchio Brunellos often have an element of wildness to them, as does the 2008, but the wine also has a track record of aging very well. This is an intriguing Brunello, to say the least. The 2008 has more than enough depth to stand up to 36 months in cask. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2028. Canalicchio di Sopra is one of my favorite properties in Montalcino. The wines are consistently outstanding, have plenty of personality and also age beautifully. Antonio Galloni
Plump and bursting with cherry, strawberry and mineral aromas and flavors, this racy red evokes harmony and freshness, with hints of spice, chocolate and tobacco as it plays out gracefully on the long aftertaste. There's structure here, with all the components integrated. Best from 2020 through 2035. 2,870 cases made, 1,100 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is elegant and tight with dried cherry, earthy root, pressed violet and exotic spice. The wine's long mandatory aging period has added to its aromatic intensity and textural weight. You also recognize that special complexity that comes with Sangiovese when grown in this sunny appellation on the southern side of Tuscany. This is a solid wine with 36,237 bottles released.
-Monica Larner
This juicy red is highlighted by plum, black cherry, tomato leaf, eucalyptus and mineral flavors. Starts out ripe and balanced, turning drier on the tobacco- and spice-tinged finish. Vibrant and long. Best from 2025 through 2040.
- Bruce Sanderson -
Dusty violets, lavender and cloves accentuate dried black cherries as the dramatic 2019 Brunello di Montalcino smolders up from the glass. This is impossible to ignore, bursting with energy as depths of ripe red fruits, chalky minerals and exotic spices saturate all they touch, balanced by textures of pure silk. The 2019 finishes with fantastic length and concentration, leaving a staining of tart blackberry and hints of orange that curl the tongue as crunchy tannins tug at the palate. It's rare to see such a combination of vibrancy and power. Canalicchio di Sopra nailed it in 2019. Wow. Drinking window 2026-2042
Canalicchio di Sopra is high on my shortlist of favorite producers in Montalcino. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino is a sumptuous wine made according to carefully considered criteria. Every step of the winemaking process represents a selection of sorts, culminating in an expression of extremes. The precision, the focus and the pristine nature of the aromas cannot be exaggerated. It is such a pleasure to taste a wine of this caliber and distinction. Aromas of dark fruit and savory spice find seamless integration. Background tones of balsam herb, cola and licorice add a superior level of complexity. In the mouth, the wine is polished, fine and silky. The mouthfeel is thinner compared to 2011 and 2010. Otherwise, this is a fabulously elegant Brunello. Monica Larner
Aromas of dark berry, mint, savory herb, blue flower and a balsamic note lead the nose. On the concentrated palate, notes of white pepper, cinnamon, clove, licorice and tobacco add depth to the black cherry core. Youthfully austere but fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity support the juicy flavors. Give this time to open and develop complexity. KERIN O’KEEFE
Canalicchio di Sopra's 2013 Brunello di Montalcino is tight and firm at its core, with qualities that bode very well for its aging potential. That compact core is surrounded by many thick layers of dark fruit and spice that are expressive and expansive. Those outer layers give the wine softness and some immediate accessibility, even at this early stage in its life. All summed up, this is a very complete and characteristic Brunello that offers stunning quality for medium or long-term drinking.
- Monica Larner
Vivid medium-dark red. Hints at black and red fruits on the delicate, refined nose, complicated by nuances of violet and flint. Then smooth and suave in the mouth, with outstanding breadth to the blueberry, sour red cherry, potpourri and floral flavors. Penetrating minerality contributes to the lasting impression of precision and verve. The noble, mouth-coating tannins provide backbone and noteworthy aging potential to this extremely elegant, pure, dense wine. One of the top eight or so Brunellos of the 2013 vintage.
- Ian D'Agata
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is understated in the glass, as swirling brings forward nuances of mint, white pepper, dusty black cherries and flowery underbrush. This is a soft and delicate Brunello from Canalicchio di Sopra, also quite mineral in style, impressing with its smooth contours and finesse, while showing rose-tinged red berries and hints of spice. A coating of gentle tannin lingers through the medium-length finale, along with hints of licorice, as the mouth is left watering for more. The 2018 is a total charmer with a beautiful balance, bolstered by the juice that would usually go into the Riserva.
- Eric Guido
Canalicchio di Sopra has put out a strong set of Brunello from the 2018 vintage, including this particularly impressive 'classic' bottling. As is customary, it blends fruit from holdings on the hill of Montosoli with plots in Canalicchio. The most immediately expressive vintage I have tasted from the estate, the 2018 also packs plenty of promise. Iris, liquorice and balsamic notes are underscored by an alluring truffle accent. The palate is fluid and charming, with chalky tannins that sneak up but remain velvety. Sweet forest berries are countered by minty green freshness, and the finish is positively crisp with tangy cranberry.
- Michaela Morris
With a hint of candied cherry, grenadine or Shirley Temple, the Canalicchio di Sopra 2019 Brunello di Montalcino reveals purple blossom, dried flower, cough drop and balsam herb. The wine is very nicely stitched together with integrated oak that comes through in a structural way but not too much on the bouquet. The tannins do feel dry on the mid-palate, but they remain fine and tight. The alcohol is a bit high in this vintage at 15%. Production is 47,321 bottles. Drink Date 2025 - 2040.
- Monica Larner -
This red sets cherry, plum, earth, iron and underbrush flavors against a fleshy texture and firm structure. A fresh version, with refined tannins supporting the long finish. Best from 2027 through 2042, 1.147 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson -
Forest floor, dark-skinned berry, iris and new leather aromas lead the nose. The full-bodied juicy palate offers ripe wild cherry, star anise and a hint of pipe tobacco alongside taut, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2023–2030.KERIN O’KEEFE
Wild berry, dark spice and Mediterranean herb aromas lift out of the glass, accented by a whiff of new leather. The enveloping, full-bodied palate doles out fleshy black cherry, star anise, pipe tobacco and cinnamon notes, framed by chewy tannins. Drink 2020–2027. KERIN O’KEEFE
Here's a Brunello with thick concentration and broad aromas of mesquite smoke, black cherry and Indian spice. Despite that bold bouquet the wine is actually tight and compact in the mouth, where it performs with easy elegance thanks to its bright acidity and lively wild berry flavors.
On the northern slopes of Montalcino, Canalicchio di Sopra's Brunello is crafted from two plots. The home site is clay, rich in magnesium, iron and manganese, while Le Gode di Montosoli is distinguished as classic galestro. Gorgeously fresh and youthful, this has well-defined scents of pepper and fennel. The palate possesses similar vibrancy, where wild strawberry, mineral and balsamic notes build on the finish. Refined yet firm tannins give plenty of confidence for ageing.
- Michaela Morris
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino from Canalicchio di Sopra boasts great aromatics of wild rose, new leather forest floor and perfumed berry that align with whiffs of spice. It’s savory and loaded with finesse, featuring juicy red cherry, botanical herb, white pepper and iron mineral notes framed in taut, lithe tannins. Blending grapes from their Montosoli and Canalicchio vineyards created an ideal, natural balance. Drink through 2038.
- Kerin O'Keefe
Black cherry, black berry, and lead pencil on the nose. Some fresh bark too. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a fresh finish. Linear tannins. Drink after 2026.
- James Suckling -
A Brunello ‘vintage’ of balance and great tension of family Ripaccioli. All the varietal wealth of the northeast quadrant of the ‘hill’, black cherry, notes of clementine peel and laurel. Balsamic attack on the palate, with density and citrusy return. Closes on floral notes.
- Luca Gardini -
Deep ruby with orange tinges. Brooding raspberry with the merest suggestion of cardamon pod. Minty raspberry that grows in stature and concentration on the palate. Long, dramatic, aromatic finish with fine-grained tannins. Fantastic balance and precision. Drink 2026 – 2038.
- Walter Speller -
New leather, camphor, forest floor and exotic brown spice aromas lead the nose on the robust, savory 2019 Brunello from Canalicchio. This is a big, bold red, delivering liquor-soaked prune, succulent black cherry, licorice and tobacco alongside a backbone of firm, tightly woven tannins. You’ll also feel the warmth of alcohol on the close.
- Kerin O’Keefe -
After excellent showings from the 2018 vintage, Canalicchio di Sopra follows up with an impressive trio of 2019s. There is also a highly promising Riserva waiting in the wings... In the meantime, the current releases kick off with the estate Brunello, which is assembled from vines that are at least a decade old. It's a model of freshness and energy, backed by substance and staying power. Aromas of mint, lavender and tobacco lead to a radiant core of warm stone and red currants. The tannins are direct and linear, giving a firm grip to the dense fruit. Bitter citrus to finish. Drinking Window: 2025 - 2037
- Michaela Morris -
Canalicchio di Sopra’s Brunello epitomises the northern side of Montalcino, combining Canalicchio itself (a historical area with a high plane of calcareous, clay-rich soils) and the famed hill of Montosoli, with more free-draining galestro, both at middling altitudes of around 300m (985ft). The nose opens with malt biscuit and Earl Grey tea over strawberry fruit of a cedary refinement. The landing is more reserved, its glassy translucency reveals smoky notes of tea leaf and incense resins, with subtle allusions to cranberry fruit and quite an unyielding, taut structure. With its ferrous finish, polished plaster tannins and linear acidity, it feels a little cerebral and withholding at present. This reflects proprietor and winemaker Francesco Ripaccioli’s preference for wines that are reductive-leaning (though not pungent) in youth, opening relatively slowly after their 36 months in untoasted oak botti. Drink 2026 – 2039.
- Sarah Heller MW -
Wild berry, leafy underbrush, truffle, scorched earth and dark spice aromas unfold on this classic red. The full-bodied palate offers fleshy black cherry, clove, ground pepper and anise alongside firm, ripe tannins. Let the tannins unwind for a few more years then enjoy. KERIN O’KEEFE
Opening aromas recall underbrush, red berry, white mushroom, truffle and thyme with a whiff of leather. The palate offers restrained wild cherry accented with white pepper, mint and sage alongside tightly knit tannins. While the tannins need to unwind, this wine isn't made for long-term cellaring. Drink 2015–2019. KERIN O’KEEFE
Coffee, leather, licorice and plum cake flavors are deeply concentrated on this rich, opulent wine. There's fruit here too, in the form of cherry liqueur and blackberry pie. This is a robust and generous wine that will appeal to those who appreciate a darker side of Brunello.
This is a nicely balanced wine with bright cherry and berry flavors that are offset by sweet spice, almond and toasted oak. The wood elements already show integration and will continue to diminish with time. Give this wine five or so more years of cellar aging.
Here's a tight and compact expression from Montalcino with bright tones of cherry wood, wild berries and violets that are delivered in steady aromatic pulses. The finish is not too long or persistent, but the flavors are fresh and very tasty while they last.
Ripe berry and cherry aromas with hints of spices and cedar. Dried flowers, too. Full-bodied, dense and layered. Fantastic richness and depth. Long, long finish. Best ever. Try after 2022.
- James Suckling
With this wine, Canalicchio di Sopra marks its 50th vintage of Brunello. It is a superb tip of the hat to founder Primo Pacenti by his highly capable grandchildren Francesco, Marco and Simonetta Ripaccioli, who now run the property. It expresses gradually and graciously both on the nose and the palate with wild flowers, forest berries and fresh earth emerging out of a sapid and minerally core. Brilliantly mid-weight but not lacking depth, this demonstrates brightness of fruit, delectable acidity, plenty of fine-grained tannins and a lingering finish.
- Michaela Morris
This bottle marks the special 50th anniversary of this wine. A little red sticker on the front label commemorates the five decades that have passed since grandfather Primo Pacenti did his first harvest. The medium-weight Canalicchio di Sopra 2015 Brunello di Montalcino shows a generous spread of forest fruit, licorice, blue flower, bay leaf, Provence herbs and fragrant wet soil aromas. There is a touch of earthy muskiness that some like to refer to as "foxy." Fruit for this Brunello represents a selection of clusters harvested over 10 hectares at 300 to 320 meters above sea level in two sites: Canalicchio and Montosoli. Canalicchio has clay soils for the structure of the wine, and Montosoli adds to the clarity of the aromas. All the vines are over 10 years old. Fermentation is in stainless steel, and aging spans 36 months in Slavonian oak casks. This wine from the warm and sunny 2015 vintage maintains its trademark crispness and freshness nonetheless. This vintage is available in bottles of various sizes, with more large formats filled to celebrate this 50th anniversary. It was bottled in May 2019 (37,520 750-millilter bottles were produced, not counting the large formats) and released in January 2020.
- Monica Larner
The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino from Canalicchio di Sopra - Ripaccioli is superb. The nose is dark and mineral-inflected with a blast of crushed raspberry, cherry and darker blackberry fruits wafting up from the glass, as sweet florals, underscored by moist soil and hints of cedar amass. On the palate, silky, almost creamy textures, offset by a stunning mix of salty-minerals and acids with savory herbs, and inner earth tones tempted the senses for another sip. The finish is remarkably long, resonating on minerals and dark fruits, almost balsamic and spicy, as its tannic structure comes forward and reminds me that this Brunello is still just a baby. What a gorgeous expression of Sangiovese.
- Eric Guido
Firm and tightly wound for now, yet features a solid beam of cherry and strawberry fruit, graced by iron, sanguine and leather accents. Lively acidity infuses this intense red with energy, driving the long finish. Best from 2023 through 2042. 3,127 cases made, 1,290 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Tasted blind. Lustrous mid ruby. Brooding yet quite closed on the nose. Ripe and sweet and at the same time tangy and elegant. It has everything: lots of tangy fruit, gripping tannins and elegant palate weight.
- Walter Speller
The Canalicchio di Sopra 2016 Brunello di Montalcino shows balance and symmetry with that difficult twofold delivery of power and elegance. This terrific new release shows dark fruit and tart cherry, but then unwinds slowly to reveal light spice, toasted nut, blue flower and crushed limestone. The wine affords a genuine sense of place with roots in the northern half of the appellation where the light is whiter and the nights are cooler. That brilliant luminosity appears in the pure quality of fruit and the sharp focus of the mouthfeel, driven by balanced tannins and acidity. The sensation it gives is compact and long, without too much extra volume or padding. This wine is like a contoured, chiseled and carefully polished marble statue that you would see in a Renaissance church. Production is an ample 44,218 bottles.
- Monica Larner
The 2016 Canalicchio di Sopra Brunello di Montalcino is flat-out stunning, remarkably vibrant and an almost-ethereal expression. There’s an exotic citrusy tinge to its ripe black cherries, taking on hints of sage, cedar and allspice, all grounded by moist earth tones. It’s focused and remarkably pure with a noticeable inner sweetness to the red and hints of blackberry fruit, all cast across a silky, feminine frame. The structure builds like a crescendo, as minerals fade to youthful tannins. Juicy acids maintain perfect balance from start to finish, making for a surprisingly fresh expression yet with amazing length. There’s simply so much going on here, and there are promises of more good things to come.
- Eric Guido
A dusty, tannic red with plum, red berry and cedar, chocolate and walnut undertones. It’s full-bodied, yet reserved and tight with ultra fine tannins and a vivid finish. A pretty, polished red. Drink after 2022.
- James Suckling
Mid ruby with some brick at the rim. More fruit sweetness but also more developed undergrowth compared with the Altesino Montosoli. Opens to a pretty floral fragrance. Firm, sweet and chewy, the fruit filling out the core. Young and lovely and so moreish.
- Julia Harding MW
Dark red cherries, plums, spices, mint, licorice and hard candy jump from the glass in the estate's 2010 Brunello di Montalcino. Ripe, juicy and deeply expressive, the 2010 boasts stunning mid-palate density. Even with all of its immediacy and voluptuousness, the 2010 has enough structure to drink well for another 20+ years. The Canalicchio Brunellos always offer power, but the 2010 overlays tons of finesse to round things out.
- Antonio Galloni
Dark red cherries, plums, spices, mint, licorice and hard candy jump from the glass in the estate's 2010 Brunello di Montalcino. Ripe, juicy and deeply expressive, the 2010 boasts stunning mid-palate density. Even with all of its immediacy and voluptuousness, the 2010 has enough structure to drink well for another 20+ years. The Canalicchio Brunellos always offer power, but the 2010 overlays tons of finesse to round things out.
- James Suckling
Deep ruby with narrow orange rim. Quite herbal and savoury more than fruity at first, and really closed. Tightly packed fruit palate and richly tannic. A little austere at the moment, yet elegant and with real ageing potential.
- Walter Speller
A solid red, displaying cooked plum and cherry flavors on a bed of dense tannins. Tight and compact on the finish, where youthful, exuberant tannins reign. Stays long and balanced in the end. Best from 2019 through 2034. 3,333 cases made, 1,250 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino is a gorgeous, striking wine. Sweet macerated cherries, tobacco, licorice, spice and mint are all laced together in a super-expressive, resonant Brunello endowed with real class. Open-knit and seductive, the 2011 will drink well with minimal cellaring. This is an especially delicate, sensual Brunello that speaks to the finesse that is possible on the northern side of Montalcino, and a terrific example of the year at its very best. With time in the glass, the 2011 starts to shut down, which may be a very good sign of its potential longevity. In any event, the 2011 Brunello is a winner. Proprietor Francesco Ripaccioli gave the 2011 a bit less time in oak than is customary. Production was just 28,000 bottles as opposed to the 50,000 bottles that were produced between the straight Brunello and Riserva in 2010 (there is no Riserva in 2011.)
- Antonio Galloni
A silky, refined red with plum, berry and cherry aromas and flavors. Full body. Lots of ripe fruit but not overdone. Chewy with polished tannins and a refined finish. Really excellent for the vintage. Needs a year or two to soften: better in 2017.
- James Suckling
Tasted blind. Maturing ruby with orange rim. A little bit stalky, but with brooding fruit underneath. The fruit makes quite a big impact on the palate, but is wonderfully matched by lots of grainy tannins and juicy acidity. A tiny bit singed, but overall irresistible.
- Walter Speller
A perfumed version, this reveals cherry, strawberry, spice and leather flavors, with briar and tobacco accents. Firm and a bit gruff on the finish, but this hangs together in the end. Best from 2018 through 2027. 2,361 cases made, 700 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Luminous red. Intense aromas of red cherry, licorice and tar are complicated by a strong note of torrefaction. Deep dense and suave, with youthfully chewy tannins and a slightly herbal nuance to the dark plum and coffee flavors. Still more notes of torrefaction and coffee emerge with aeration. This brooding, strapping Brunello will require patience.
- Ian D'Agata
Wonderfully aromatic and fresh with plum, flower and citrus character. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a delicious finish. So much finesse. Drink or hold.
- James Suckling
Tasted blind. Mid to deep ruby with orange tinges. Lifted, peppery and full nose, but not entirely open. Gorgeous cherry fruit tightly packed with tannins. Finely tuned like a sports car, if really tannic for the moment.
- Walter Speller
Loads of balsamic aromas and flavors—juniper, rosemary, thyme, olive—along with cherry, sanguine and tobacco notes are the hallmarks of this intense red. Well-integrated and complex, building to a long aftertaste. Best from 2021 through 2035. 3,400 cases made, 1,250 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Ripe berry and dried orange peel character follow through to a full body, round and velvety tannins and a juicy finish. A more fruit-forward style for this estate. Better in 2019.
- James Suckling
Maturing ruby with bright orange tinges. Still a little closed on the nose and with compact fruit that is slow to unfurl on the palate. Impressive balance and concentration. Spicy cherry fruit on the finish and powerful tannins. Put this away for a couple of years.
- Walter Speller
The 2014 Brunello di Montalcino definitely shows the more accessible and easy-drinking side of this celebrated Sangiovese-based appellation in southern Tuscany. The wine offers all the prerequisite Brunello characteristics of wild berry and tobacco with pressed violets and fresh potting soil. However, those characteristics are presented at a notch or two of decreased intensity. This is quality common to the great majority of Brunellos I tasted from the 2014 vintage. I recommend this wine to lovers of Brunello looking for a wine to drink within the next ten years. Some 15,037 bottles were made.
- Monica Larner
Good deep red. Perfumed aromas of musky raspberry, cherry cola spices and flowers. Round and deep in the mouth, with lovely sweetness and a light touch to the red fruit and cedar flavors. Finishes long, pure and linear. The youthful, chewy but noble tannins will reward mid-term aging.
- Ian D'Agata
There’s good energy in this Brunello with quite ripe red-fruit aromas leading to a palate that has handsomely grainy tannins and an impressively deep, red-cherry core. Nice structure and build. Drink or hold.
- James Suckling
Francesco Ripaccioli called the 2014 harvest never-ending. After dropping any unhealthy grapes mid-September, 80% of what remained was picked for the Rosso on 25 September. The Brunello harvest, beginning on 5 Oct, consisted of only the smallest, most concentrated bunches, which in other years would 'give marmalade', notes Ripaccioli. The resulting wine is one of the successes of the vintage. Quite piercing and perfumed, its floral and red fruit tones are countered by touches of smoke and earth which linger remarkably. There's plenty of nerve and fine-boned tannin to support. Without lacking substance, this captures Sangiovese's glorious lightness of being.
- Michaela Morris
This fragrant red opens with scents that evoke violet, rose, perfumed berry and an earthy whiff of damp soil. On the lithe palate, you'll find sour cherry, pomegranate and star anise set against polished tannins. Vibrant acidity lends balance and energy. Drink through 2024.
- Kerin 0'Keefe
Pale to mid ruby. Very pure, direct, aromatic nose of definitely ripe fruit – impressive! Good build with light tannins and just the right amount of acidity. Arguably more Sangiovese than old-school Brunello but none the worse for that.
- Jansis Robinson
Lean and sinewy, with savory flavors of loam, soy, tobacco and woodsy spice surrounding a core of cherry fruit. Subtle and firm, finishing with mineral and woodsy spice accents. Best from 2020 through 2032. 1,550 cases made, 300 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Another great interpretation for this firm. On the nose, alcohol-infused marasca cherries with touch of undergrowth from fresh marjoram. Balsamic in the mouth, a pleasant juiciness and tautness. Officinal fresh notes returning on the finish.
- Luca Gardini
Spicy nose for this very fine Brunello: fresh spices, alcohol-infused cherries, blackberries. A wonderful acidity emphasized in the mouthfeel that is ample, with perfectly integrated tannins for an impressive persistence.
- Luca Gardini
Great and decisive tannic sharpness for this product which is, also this one, of great aging potential. Its nose is very variegated, with leather, freshlycut grass aromas and a balsamic but not excessively marked end. It seems mostly fresh, breezy and irreverent while drinking. Its age will enrich it with wisdom and (perhaps) truth
- Luca Gardini
Violet, some touches half way between mint and rose, and a red ripe fruit are the sensations that characterize the nose. It does not have a great opening or communicative ability, at least in the initial part of the sip, which remains anchored to tones of violet and sour cherry. From mid sip on, it extends in a soft key, thanks to the appearance of a nice range of spices. Vivacious tannins of an acidic mix.
- Luca Gardini
Brunello from the Northern side. Fruity aromas that do not translate only the roughness of mixed berries but instead flank them with smoother impressions of peach, yellow-fleshed fruit, and plums. A measured taste, once again fruity, even if enriched by the spiciness of red peppercorn and nutmeg. Refined tannic texture.
- Luca Gardini
Intense aromas of underbrush, wild berry, new leather and pipe tobacco lead the way on this fragrant Brunello. Full bodied and elegantly structured, the savory palate features ripe morello cherry, licorice and truffle before a black-tea finish. Firm, refined tannins and fresh acidity keep balanced and give it an ageworthy structure. Drink 2024–2036. - CELLAR SELECTION
- Kerin O’Keefe
Luscious black cherry is the main theme in this racy red, accented by plum, licorice, tar and iron. This is dense, turning more austere as the tannins take hold of the long finish. Shows fine energy, balance and potential. Best from 2025 through 2048.
- Bruce Sanderson
A blend of the Montosoli (60%) and Canalicchio (40%) crus.
Lustrous mid ruby. Closed, with minerally hints. Fantastic focus, concentration and balance and totally poised. Very pure, with long tannins. Enormous concentration yet not heavy. Very young but already irresistible.
-Walter Speller
Canalicchio di Sopra’s estate Brunello is a blend of plots from its home base in Canalicchio, as well as holdings on the Montosoli hill. The 2016 allies the restrained fleshiness of the former and the salinity of the latter with a balsamic dash. Scents of lilac and bay laurel turn to pure dark cherry on the palate, which is laced with liquorice and stone. Suave tannins maintain a grainy grip and there is no lack of mouthwatering acidity. Thrilling umami finish!
Drinking Window 2023 - 2035
- Michaela Morris
"This shows beautiful balance and drinkability, with firm and slightly
chewy tannins, yet the fruit is pure and flavorful. Some bark and
crushed-stone undertones. Very drinkable now, but better in 2023."
- James Suckling
Deciso e ricco di carattere mostra note miste floreali e fruttate che ricordano i fiori di ibisco, i gerani, la passiflora, le mandorle tritate ed il caramello dolce. Corpo medio-pieno, tannini morbidi di piacevole grana fine ed un finale succoso e balsamico di notevole bellezza. Meglio dal 2022.
- Raffaele Vecchione
The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is wildly perfumed, dusty and exotic, with balsam herbs, savory spices, red currants and plums coming across as so pretty yet rich and potent. A silky display of sour wild berries contrasted by candied citrus wows the senses as the 2017 plays a zesty sweet-and-sour act upon the palate. It’s long, youthfully chewy, yet still remarkably fresh, with rosy florals and tart, tart cherries giving way to chiseled tannins through the finale. This is a beautiful rendition of the 2017 vintage, one that takes the dry warmth of the year and expresses it with tremendous energy and verve. What's more, I revisited this bottle over the course of 36 hours and it only got better with time.
- Eric Guido
Considering the location of Canalicchio di Sopra’s vineyards to the east and north of Montalcino there should be every reason to think that 2017 would not pose the problem to making a top Annata. Francesco Ripaccioli would likely smile that wry smile when he knows that the year was in fact a magnanimous challenge but he would also follow up with that confident smile of this. Ripaccioli has the fortune and the instincts, to mix and match, to layer and compliment, to figure with mathematical precision and this wine expresses all that an more. There is cut and linearity, a finest architectural line and a freshness that belies what heat might want to take control. A fine classico for Montalcino that speaks to the best of all worlds within. Drink 2023-2030. Tasted November 2021.
- Michael Godel
Another success in the path of the Ripaccioli family in search of the best possible quality. Nose of pomegranate, with notes of fresh thyme and touches of carnation. The mouthfeel is taut, with excellent density, salty tannins and a nice persistence.
- Luca Gardini
Absolutely smooth and precise as is common with all the wines of Canalicchio di Sopra, I love the purity in this wine, all up front gorgeous fruit aromas and flavours, but there are still elements of complexity that linger long in your memory and taste buds. The vintage was a great one in Montalcino and owner Francesco Ripaccioli made one sensational wine after another.
- Ian D'Agata
Canalicchio di Sopra began harvesting Brunello on 25 September - just one day earlier than in 2016. Francesco Ripaccioli credits the significant diurnal temperature differences during the preceding month for measured ripening as well as preservation of acidity. The estate Brunello, which is a blend of vineyards in the Montosoli and Canalicchio zones, starts with smoky, flinty notes then gives way to intense herb blossoms. The palate is where it really struts its stuff at the moment, particularly the texture. It grips confidently in all the right places. Packed with flavours of small forest berries and dusty gravel, it finishes with a refreshing salty kick. Drinking Window 2023 - 2031
- Michaela Morris
As you drive downhill from the hamlet of Montalcino on its north side, you pass the Canalicchio di Sopra winery, which is located in a shallow, sun-lit basin of vines. This estate is meticulous and studied in its winemaking philosophy, and the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is an expression of that concentration. This warm-climate Brunello reveals awesome purity and intensity with wild cherry, almond and lilac spread over a tonic, mid-weight finish. This wine awards plenty of elegance in a vintage that was not easy and not prone to such nuance. Production is exactly 39,989 bottles.
-Monica Larner
Aromas of underbrush, blue flowers and ripe black-skinned fruit mingle with new leather. The concentrated, full-bodied palate doles out ripe plum, fleshy black cherry, star anise and tobacco set against velvety, enveloping tannins. A great performance for the scorching vintage, you won't have to wait long before enjoying this, but it will also offer years of fine drinking. Drink 2023–2029.
- Kerin O’Keefe
This red bursts with sweet, ripe cherry and plum fruit, with tobacco, leather and mineral elements adding depth as it builds to a lingering conclusion. Shows fine balance, a vibrant structure and excellent length. Spicy aftertaste. Best from 2024 through 2042.
- Bruce Sanderson
Just mid ruby. Some development on the nose with hints of forest floor but with quite pure cherry fruit underneath. Concentrated, focused cherry palate with a minty edge and bags of chewy tannins. Very long and gripping finish.
- Walter Speller
Reviewed by Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler
Warmduftige Nase nach Kirschen und Veilchen; saftiger Auftakt, die Tannine und die Säure in perfekter Symbiose, viel Saft und Schmelz bis ins Finale. Ein Allrounder.
- Christian Eder
Ruby red in colour. Sour berries vie with candid citrus fruits. Aromatics of sweet perfumed florals and spice have you rolling from side to side. Silky soft textures perform aerobatics on the mid palate. Contains the ‘Big Bang” of energy at its core. Brunello 2017 vintage…I can’t believe it!!!
- Tony Wood
Another refined Brunello from this winery succesfully led by Francesco Ripaccioli. North-western side of the ‘hill’. To the nose it opens with marasca cherries in alcohol, then nuances of rhubarb and linden. Equally balsamic to the palate, with juicy and dense-crisp tannins. Officinal return on the closure.
- Luca Gardini
Three years of cask ageing.
Lustrous mid ruby with orange tinges. Finely spiced raspberry, but more savoury than fruity. Hints of cinnamon bark and cherry. Supple yet lively displaying great purity of fruit and super-fine sandy tannins clinging to the fruit. Tannic chew and freshness.
- Walter Speller
Perfumed nose of neroli, bergamot, sandalwood, cherry stones and plums. Full-bodied and richly fruity with gently grainy tannins. Drink after 2023.
- James Suckling
Il frutto maturo esplode da ogni “angolo” del calice. Le note di prugne rosse, fragole, caramello dolce, incenso e cumino mostrano energia e carattere e raccontano nel migliore dei modi il Versante Nord di Montalcino nella località Canalicchio. Corpo medio, tannini perfettamente lineari di incredibile bellezza ed un finale che mostra succo e qualità del frutto impressionante. Meglio dal 2024.
- Raffaele Vecchione
Enstablished in 1992 by Primo Pacenti and one of the 12 founding members of the Brunello Consorzio, Canalicchio di Sopra owns a magnificent 60ha property on the north side of Montalcino, of which 19ha are planted to vines. With its pure, elegant perfume, Canalicchio di Sopra’s 2018 is a marvelously composed wine, with silky-firm texture, fine but firm tannins, succulent, fresh acids, and terrific length. I love the harmony and balance, the lingering, perfumed finish. A very fine wine that will please early on, even now, though surely age gracefully into the ‘30s. Grace and sophistication personified.
-John Szabo
Medium ruby red in colour. White cherry, wild strawberry, goji berries, dry floral underbrush, a dusting of exotic spice, salty liquorice and a hint of cedar balm. Focused. Balanced. Precise. Finely etched minerality. Very persistent intense finish.
- Tony Wood -
Brunello di Montalcino Trophy 2023
- Wolfgang M. Rosam, Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler -
Elegantes, zurückhaltendes Bouquet mit reifen roten und blauen Beeren, dahinter geht es erdig und würzig zu: Liebstöckel, Graphit und trüffelige Sous-Bois-Noten, dazu kommen florale und mit Luft auch ätherische Anklänge, sehr komplex und changierend. Am Gaumen elegant und dicht gewoben, mit feinen ätherischen Noten und einer guten, griffigen Frische. Wie so oft: Ein starker, klassischer Basis-Brunello!
Bright ruby red in colour. Aromas of red fruits and berries and white florals. Compact, forest floor, dried mushroom and blonde tobacco. Savoury. Juicy. Slate minerality. Tannins provide structure that texture, acidity and balance interplay. Still showing youthful tendencies. Linear close.
- Tony Wood -
Deep ruby red in colour with light amber rim. Super concentration of red cherry, berries, blood orange, prune and spice. Earthy notes. Fully placed on its plateau, full bodied but not heavy, white smoke and roast meat notes on the medium length finish.
- Tony Wood -
Bright medium red. Linear red cherry, plum, tar, licorice and violet aromas. Currently youthful and still chunky, with deep flavours similar to the aromas, this will develop nicely in a good cellar and reveal a complex, multilayered personality. Finishes long and with very smooth tannins.
- Ian D'Agata -
Guida 2024 - sezione "Vini da vitigni autoctoni"
Rauchig-würziges Bouquet mit einer schönen Liaison aus reifer rot- und schwarz beeriger Frucht und floral- und kräuterwürzigen Noten, dahinter getrocknete Veilchen und Zedernwürze. Am Gaumen mit saftig-jugendlicher Frucht, fast kühl und griffig wirkend, feinsandiges Tannin, kraftvoll und dicht gewoben, langes, würziges Finale. 2025 – 2036
- Giuseppe Lauria -
Canalicchio is northeast of Montalcino, criss-crossed by man-made canals, and is known for its clay soils and cooler aspects. Canalicchio di Sopra blends the grapes from around its winery with those from estate vineyards in Montosoli, the other hill northeast of Montalcino, which is drier with warmer western aspects and stonier soils. The blend produces a vibrant nose with notes of fresh bing cherry, and earthy smatterings of underbrush and rust. The cherry fruit is lifted by 2018’s effusive acidity and after it balloons on to the front palate is followed by a meaty savouriness. Tactile ridges of tannin run from mid-palate back, overlaid with a bitterness that balances out the ebullience of the entry.
- Sarah Heller MW -
Assolutamente intrigante e nobile nella matrice principale mostra note miste floreali e fruttate che ricordano il giacinto, le prugne rosse, le fragoline di bosco, il melograno, la buccia di limone, i mirtilli pressati e le foglie di tè nero. In sottofondo cola e bergamotto descrivono la scena secondaria di grande cifra stilistica. Corpo medio, tannini morbidi di ottima grana fine ed un finale sottile e delicato leggermente amaricante in chiusura. Meglio dal 2025.
- Raffaele Vecchione -
Vitae, La Guida Vini 2024 - X edizione
The most recent plantings at Canalicchio were executed in 2009 next to the 1990 La Casaccia vineyard. These vines are maturing and will likely seek entrance into the Vigna label but for now they are picked for this classic Brunello. They may not be grapes of enigma or mystery but they are the epitome of purity and the Brunello represents a high-casted estate style to explain so much about the house of Ripaccioli and Canalicchio di Sopra. The 2019 Brunello is a wine of silkiness but not opulence. A sangiovese that is an extension of a producer’s hands and there is no separating the wine from its maker. As for place well yes because all the vineyards are close enough to one another to combine for unmistakable identity. Drink 2023-2026.
- Michael Godel -
Luminous red. Open-knit red plum, blood orange and red cherry aromas and flavours are complemented by hints of tobacco and herbs. Closes smooth and ripe, with very good palate presence. Drinking window: 2024-2039.
- Ian D'Agata -
Medium ruby red in colour. Intense aromas of blue florals including violet, hyacinth and bluebell, assisted with cedar shavings, liquorice and distant mocha notes. Wild cherry, strawberry, loganberry, blood orange, balsamic notes, complex layered minerality. The entry, can be described as “an iron hand in a velvet glove.” Secondary notes of warm plum and mellow spice. Beautifully extracted. Good weight yet refined and elegant. Light in texture. Impressive.
- Tony Wood -
Elegantes Bouquet mit reifen roten und schwarzen Beeren, dahinter geht es erdig und würzig zu: Lakritz, Graphit und trüffelige Sous-Bois-Noten, dazu kommen florale und mit Luft auch ätherische Anklänge, sehr kom plex. Am Gaumen elegant und distinguiert mit einer guten, griffigen Frische. Ein finessenreicher Basis-Brunello, der die Vorzüge des Jahrgangs zeigt! [2026 – 2038]
- Giuseppe Lauria -
Leuchtendes Rubinrot, funkelnd. Duftend, saftige Kirsche in der Nase, nach süßem Gewürz, Brombeere, sehr fein und einladend, tief, getrocknete Blütenblätter. Saftig am Gaumen, mit toller Spannung und geschliffenem Tannin, mit Zug und klarer Frucht, griffiges Finish. Sehr gut gelungen, toller Brunello.
Brunello di Montalcino Trophy 2024
- Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler -
Produced from vineyards which are over 10 years old, it represents the essence of our concept of terroir: an expression of elegance, depth, and freshness of our Sangiovese, able to unite its balsamic quality of the north side of Montalcino with the opulence of our lands.
DOCG
Sangiovese 100%
Average of 300 Meters Above Sea Level
The vintage Brunello di Montalcino "Canalicchio di Sopra" is the result of a blend of two different soils: Terrain with a marked clay component, very rich in intermediate elements such as Magnesium, Iron and Manganese characteristic of the Cru Canalicchio and a "galestro" soil high with a very high mineral component, loamy texture with a high presence of silt, characteristic of the Cru Montosoli.
The blend favors wines of great minerality and sapidity, supported by excellent acidity ideal for long aging.
Cordon trained and spur pruned (Spurrend cordon)
For our Brunello di Montalcino 2017, grapes from the estate cru vineyards were used (Canalicchio 50% and Montosoli 50%).
In steel tanks with fermentation temperature control, daily soft pumping over. Maceration on the skins for 25 days
36 months in slavonian Oak casks (2500 and 5000 Liters)
1966
1620 Bottles by 375 ml
36149 Bottles by 750 ml
1187 Bottles by 1500 ml
80 Bottles by 3 liters
30 Bottles by 5 liters
4 Bottles by 12 liters
3 Bottles by 18 liters
14.50%
From a climactic point of view, 2017 can be defined as very similar to 2012 regarding the weather conditions, where these extremes have certainly become its strong point in terms of pleasantness, opulence, and readiness to drink.
The springtime saw mild temperatures with little rainfall which resulted in an early bud burst and flowering. The early summer months were very hot with above-average temperatures and without rainfall. On one hand, this situation is ideal for plant health with the absence of plant disease; on the other hand, it is of great stress on the vines, which heartily withstood these conditions thanks to the abundant water reserves accumulated after the 2016 harvest, especially in the more clayey terrain of the Canalicchio Cru.
Between the end of July and the end of August, there was rainfall that was fundamental in generating that necessary push for a good veraison, rain that was average in a normal year for a total of 30mm. The grapes were very small in size with a great concentration, and the rain, in addition to a drop to below-average temperatures, allowed for a uniform and balanced veraison creating the base for an early harvest, which was not as early as we had thought in July when the heat and dry conditions were compromising the vines.
The 30mm of rain on September 1 and the 30mm of rain on September 16, the cooling temperatures, and the considerable diurnal temperature range were the turning point in quality of this vintage, factors which did not result in harvesting too early and which did not affect the acidity too much. The acidity remained balanced and relatively high to support the structure, concentration, and alcohol content, guaranteeing balance and elegance in the wines.
The harvest took place during the regular time of year precisely thanks to these weather conditions in September, starting on September 25 and finishing on October 6.
We carried out a double selection - in the vineyard as well as in the cellar on sorting tables to eliminate any imperfections of grapes that had been dried up by the sun in June and July and which would have brought astringency to the tannins and bitterness to the fruit. This selection most certainly influenced the quantity of the harvest for our winery, but it allowed us to maintain our high standards of quality.
2017:The surprising freshness of a warm vintage:
The 2017 vintage is classified among those with hot and dry climates, when the vines sought out and found a natural and surprising way to adapt to quite extreme conditions for the area of Montalcino. During this hot and drought-like year, the biggest challenge was to maintain the enjoyability, freshness and purity of the fruit. The evolution of the weather and agronomic conditions was a continual challenge to interpretation and fear culminating in a great sigh of relief at the end of August when the rains came and provided balance to the vines and fruit, giving them the chance to benefit from the optimal conditions in the twenty days before the harvest, the most important and crucial. The three weeks preceding the harvest were, in fact, those of a GREAT VINTAGE, with mild temperatures during the day and even cooler at night, elevated temperature ranges and dry and favourable days alternated with a bit of rain which was immediately dried up by the wind.
This vintage gave us further confirmation that the greatest vintages come when the perfect conditions are created before the harvest, and this is what happened in 2017. This resulted in a wine of great personality, generous on the nose, enfolding and sensual, which amazes with its freshness in the mouth and its surprising balance making it a wine of great pleasure. Fire and ice, sweetness and sapidity, balsamic and fruity, a mix of ingredients which gives this vintage an extreme pleasantness but also it the seriousness of a great Brunello di Montalcino. The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino DOCG is a continual contrast between the hot and cooler parts of the year: the freshness in the mouth is contrasted by the sweeter opulence and fullness on the nose. Elegant and silky tannins which give depth and vibration to the wine. The acidity, perfectly integrated in the alcohol content lends itself to the prospect of ageing well in the bottle.
The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino is a beautifully round and opulent wine that bursts open with vitality and a rush of immediate fruit. It shows lasting intensity with dried cherry, plum, blackberry, spice, leather and tobacco. Generally speaking, the aromas are soft and enduring. This wine offers enormous pleasure upfront and can be consumed within the next ten years. The wine is less adapted for long aging given the approachable tannins and ripe fruit flavors. In its current form, it is a delicious Brunello. Monica Larner
The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino will blow you away. This is a delightful expression that boasts its extreme quality from the minute the wine is poured from the bottle. As you should expect, it just gets better and better with each additional minute in the glass. It opens to a vibrant dark ruby color and blackish-garnet hues. The bouquet is ever changing and shows a long succession of aromatic characteristics that rage from dark fruit, plum, spice, leather, licorice, red rose, balsam and grilled herb. It's textbook Brunello from a great vintage and this side of the appellation (on the northeastern side) performs fantastically in 2010. This beauty should hold fifteen years or more. Monica Larner
The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino is a standout expression with long and polished notes of dried fruit and tobacco presented in a smooth and seamless fashion. It shows good structure and balance but an even prettier nose with ethereal balsam herbs, tar, licorice and pressed violets that emerge as the wine evolves in the glass. The wine hints at a greater evolution to come. Drink: 2017-2022. Monica Larner
The 2008 Brunello di Montalcino is fabulous. An exciting melange of dark cherries, plums, tobacco, licorice, mocha and herbs take shape in the glass. Powerful, rich and structured, the 2008 wraps around the palate with serious depth. The Canalicchio Brunellos often have an element of wildness to them, as does the 2008, but the wine also has a track record of aging very well. This is an intriguing Brunello, to say the least. The 2008 has more than enough depth to stand up to 36 months in cask. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2028. Canalicchio di Sopra is one of my favorite properties in Montalcino. The wines are consistently outstanding, have plenty of personality and also age beautifully. Antonio Galloni
Plump and bursting with cherry, strawberry and mineral aromas and flavors, this racy red evokes harmony and freshness, with hints of spice, chocolate and tobacco as it plays out gracefully on the long aftertaste. There's structure here, with all the components integrated. Best from 2020 through 2035. 2,870 cases made, 1,100 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is elegant and tight with dried cherry, earthy root, pressed violet and exotic spice. The wine's long mandatory aging period has added to its aromatic intensity and textural weight. You also recognize that special complexity that comes with Sangiovese when grown in this sunny appellation on the southern side of Tuscany. This is a solid wine with 36,237 bottles released.
-Monica Larner
This juicy red is highlighted by plum, black cherry, tomato leaf, eucalyptus and mineral flavors. Starts out ripe and balanced, turning drier on the tobacco- and spice-tinged finish. Vibrant and long. Best from 2025 through 2040.
- Bruce Sanderson -
Dusty violets, lavender and cloves accentuate dried black cherries as the dramatic 2019 Brunello di Montalcino smolders up from the glass. This is impossible to ignore, bursting with energy as depths of ripe red fruits, chalky minerals and exotic spices saturate all they touch, balanced by textures of pure silk. The 2019 finishes with fantastic length and concentration, leaving a staining of tart blackberry and hints of orange that curl the tongue as crunchy tannins tug at the palate. It's rare to see such a combination of vibrancy and power. Canalicchio di Sopra nailed it in 2019. Wow. Drinking window 2026-2042
Canalicchio di Sopra is high on my shortlist of favorite producers in Montalcino. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino is a sumptuous wine made according to carefully considered criteria. Every step of the winemaking process represents a selection of sorts, culminating in an expression of extremes. The precision, the focus and the pristine nature of the aromas cannot be exaggerated. It is such a pleasure to taste a wine of this caliber and distinction. Aromas of dark fruit and savory spice find seamless integration. Background tones of balsam herb, cola and licorice add a superior level of complexity. In the mouth, the wine is polished, fine and silky. The mouthfeel is thinner compared to 2011 and 2010. Otherwise, this is a fabulously elegant Brunello. Monica Larner
Aromas of dark berry, mint, savory herb, blue flower and a balsamic note lead the nose. On the concentrated palate, notes of white pepper, cinnamon, clove, licorice and tobacco add depth to the black cherry core. Youthfully austere but fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity support the juicy flavors. Give this time to open and develop complexity. KERIN O’KEEFE
Canalicchio di Sopra's 2013 Brunello di Montalcino is tight and firm at its core, with qualities that bode very well for its aging potential. That compact core is surrounded by many thick layers of dark fruit and spice that are expressive and expansive. Those outer layers give the wine softness and some immediate accessibility, even at this early stage in its life. All summed up, this is a very complete and characteristic Brunello that offers stunning quality for medium or long-term drinking.
- Monica Larner
Vivid medium-dark red. Hints at black and red fruits on the delicate, refined nose, complicated by nuances of violet and flint. Then smooth and suave in the mouth, with outstanding breadth to the blueberry, sour red cherry, potpourri and floral flavors. Penetrating minerality contributes to the lasting impression of precision and verve. The noble, mouth-coating tannins provide backbone and noteworthy aging potential to this extremely elegant, pure, dense wine. One of the top eight or so Brunellos of the 2013 vintage.
- Ian D'Agata
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is understated in the glass, as swirling brings forward nuances of mint, white pepper, dusty black cherries and flowery underbrush. This is a soft and delicate Brunello from Canalicchio di Sopra, also quite mineral in style, impressing with its smooth contours and finesse, while showing rose-tinged red berries and hints of spice. A coating of gentle tannin lingers through the medium-length finale, along with hints of licorice, as the mouth is left watering for more. The 2018 is a total charmer with a beautiful balance, bolstered by the juice that would usually go into the Riserva.
- Eric Guido
Canalicchio di Sopra has put out a strong set of Brunello from the 2018 vintage, including this particularly impressive 'classic' bottling. As is customary, it blends fruit from holdings on the hill of Montosoli with plots in Canalicchio. The most immediately expressive vintage I have tasted from the estate, the 2018 also packs plenty of promise. Iris, liquorice and balsamic notes are underscored by an alluring truffle accent. The palate is fluid and charming, with chalky tannins that sneak up but remain velvety. Sweet forest berries are countered by minty green freshness, and the finish is positively crisp with tangy cranberry.
- Michaela Morris
With a hint of candied cherry, grenadine or Shirley Temple, the Canalicchio di Sopra 2019 Brunello di Montalcino reveals purple blossom, dried flower, cough drop and balsam herb. The wine is very nicely stitched together with integrated oak that comes through in a structural way but not too much on the bouquet. The tannins do feel dry on the mid-palate, but they remain fine and tight. The alcohol is a bit high in this vintage at 15%. Production is 47,321 bottles. Drink Date 2025 - 2040.
- Monica Larner -
This red sets cherry, plum, earth, iron and underbrush flavors against a fleshy texture and firm structure. A fresh version, with refined tannins supporting the long finish. Best from 2027 through 2042, 1.147 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson -
Forest floor, dark-skinned berry, iris and new leather aromas lead the nose. The full-bodied juicy palate offers ripe wild cherry, star anise and a hint of pipe tobacco alongside taut, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2023–2030.KERIN O’KEEFE
Wild berry, dark spice and Mediterranean herb aromas lift out of the glass, accented by a whiff of new leather. The enveloping, full-bodied palate doles out fleshy black cherry, star anise, pipe tobacco and cinnamon notes, framed by chewy tannins. Drink 2020–2027. KERIN O’KEEFE
Here's a Brunello with thick concentration and broad aromas of mesquite smoke, black cherry and Indian spice. Despite that bold bouquet the wine is actually tight and compact in the mouth, where it performs with easy elegance thanks to its bright acidity and lively wild berry flavors.
On the northern slopes of Montalcino, Canalicchio di Sopra's Brunello is crafted from two plots. The home site is clay, rich in magnesium, iron and manganese, while Le Gode di Montosoli is distinguished as classic galestro. Gorgeously fresh and youthful, this has well-defined scents of pepper and fennel. The palate possesses similar vibrancy, where wild strawberry, mineral and balsamic notes build on the finish. Refined yet firm tannins give plenty of confidence for ageing.
- Michaela Morris
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino from Canalicchio di Sopra boasts great aromatics of wild rose, new leather forest floor and perfumed berry that align with whiffs of spice. It’s savory and loaded with finesse, featuring juicy red cherry, botanical herb, white pepper and iron mineral notes framed in taut, lithe tannins. Blending grapes from their Montosoli and Canalicchio vineyards created an ideal, natural balance. Drink through 2038.
- Kerin O'Keefe
Black cherry, black berry, and lead pencil on the nose. Some fresh bark too. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a fresh finish. Linear tannins. Drink after 2026.
- James Suckling -
A Brunello ‘vintage’ of balance and great tension of family Ripaccioli. All the varietal wealth of the northeast quadrant of the ‘hill’, black cherry, notes of clementine peel and laurel. Balsamic attack on the palate, with density and citrusy return. Closes on floral notes.
- Luca Gardini -
Deep ruby with orange tinges. Brooding raspberry with the merest suggestion of cardamon pod. Minty raspberry that grows in stature and concentration on the palate. Long, dramatic, aromatic finish with fine-grained tannins. Fantastic balance and precision. Drink 2026 – 2038.
- Walter Speller -
New leather, camphor, forest floor and exotic brown spice aromas lead the nose on the robust, savory 2019 Brunello from Canalicchio. This is a big, bold red, delivering liquor-soaked prune, succulent black cherry, licorice and tobacco alongside a backbone of firm, tightly woven tannins. You’ll also feel the warmth of alcohol on the close.
- Kerin O’Keefe -
After excellent showings from the 2018 vintage, Canalicchio di Sopra follows up with an impressive trio of 2019s. There is also a highly promising Riserva waiting in the wings... In the meantime, the current releases kick off with the estate Brunello, which is assembled from vines that are at least a decade old. It's a model of freshness and energy, backed by substance and staying power. Aromas of mint, lavender and tobacco lead to a radiant core of warm stone and red currants. The tannins are direct and linear, giving a firm grip to the dense fruit. Bitter citrus to finish. Drinking Window: 2025 - 2037
- Michaela Morris -
Canalicchio di Sopra’s Brunello epitomises the northern side of Montalcino, combining Canalicchio itself (a historical area with a high plane of calcareous, clay-rich soils) and the famed hill of Montosoli, with more free-draining galestro, both at middling altitudes of around 300m (985ft). The nose opens with malt biscuit and Earl Grey tea over strawberry fruit of a cedary refinement. The landing is more reserved, its glassy translucency reveals smoky notes of tea leaf and incense resins, with subtle allusions to cranberry fruit and quite an unyielding, taut structure. With its ferrous finish, polished plaster tannins and linear acidity, it feels a little cerebral and withholding at present. This reflects proprietor and winemaker Francesco Ripaccioli’s preference for wines that are reductive-leaning (though not pungent) in youth, opening relatively slowly after their 36 months in untoasted oak botti. Drink 2026 – 2039.
- Sarah Heller MW -
Wild berry, leafy underbrush, truffle, scorched earth and dark spice aromas unfold on this classic red. The full-bodied palate offers fleshy black cherry, clove, ground pepper and anise alongside firm, ripe tannins. Let the tannins unwind for a few more years then enjoy. KERIN O’KEEFE
Opening aromas recall underbrush, red berry, white mushroom, truffle and thyme with a whiff of leather. The palate offers restrained wild cherry accented with white pepper, mint and sage alongside tightly knit tannins. While the tannins need to unwind, this wine isn't made for long-term cellaring. Drink 2015–2019. KERIN O’KEEFE
Coffee, leather, licorice and plum cake flavors are deeply concentrated on this rich, opulent wine. There's fruit here too, in the form of cherry liqueur and blackberry pie. This is a robust and generous wine that will appeal to those who appreciate a darker side of Brunello.
This is a nicely balanced wine with bright cherry and berry flavors that are offset by sweet spice, almond and toasted oak. The wood elements already show integration and will continue to diminish with time. Give this wine five or so more years of cellar aging.
Here's a tight and compact expression from Montalcino with bright tones of cherry wood, wild berries and violets that are delivered in steady aromatic pulses. The finish is not too long or persistent, but the flavors are fresh and very tasty while they last.
Ripe berry and cherry aromas with hints of spices and cedar. Dried flowers, too. Full-bodied, dense and layered. Fantastic richness and depth. Long, long finish. Best ever. Try after 2022.
- James Suckling
With this wine, Canalicchio di Sopra marks its 50th vintage of Brunello. It is a superb tip of the hat to founder Primo Pacenti by his highly capable grandchildren Francesco, Marco and Simonetta Ripaccioli, who now run the property. It expresses gradually and graciously both on the nose and the palate with wild flowers, forest berries and fresh earth emerging out of a sapid and minerally core. Brilliantly mid-weight but not lacking depth, this demonstrates brightness of fruit, delectable acidity, plenty of fine-grained tannins and a lingering finish.
- Michaela Morris
This bottle marks the special 50th anniversary of this wine. A little red sticker on the front label commemorates the five decades that have passed since grandfather Primo Pacenti did his first harvest. The medium-weight Canalicchio di Sopra 2015 Brunello di Montalcino shows a generous spread of forest fruit, licorice, blue flower, bay leaf, Provence herbs and fragrant wet soil aromas. There is a touch of earthy muskiness that some like to refer to as "foxy." Fruit for this Brunello represents a selection of clusters harvested over 10 hectares at 300 to 320 meters above sea level in two sites: Canalicchio and Montosoli. Canalicchio has clay soils for the structure of the wine, and Montosoli adds to the clarity of the aromas. All the vines are over 10 years old. Fermentation is in stainless steel, and aging spans 36 months in Slavonian oak casks. This wine from the warm and sunny 2015 vintage maintains its trademark crispness and freshness nonetheless. This vintage is available in bottles of various sizes, with more large formats filled to celebrate this 50th anniversary. It was bottled in May 2019 (37,520 750-millilter bottles were produced, not counting the large formats) and released in January 2020.
- Monica Larner
The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino from Canalicchio di Sopra - Ripaccioli is superb. The nose is dark and mineral-inflected with a blast of crushed raspberry, cherry and darker blackberry fruits wafting up from the glass, as sweet florals, underscored by moist soil and hints of cedar amass. On the palate, silky, almost creamy textures, offset by a stunning mix of salty-minerals and acids with savory herbs, and inner earth tones tempted the senses for another sip. The finish is remarkably long, resonating on minerals and dark fruits, almost balsamic and spicy, as its tannic structure comes forward and reminds me that this Brunello is still just a baby. What a gorgeous expression of Sangiovese.
- Eric Guido
Firm and tightly wound for now, yet features a solid beam of cherry and strawberry fruit, graced by iron, sanguine and leather accents. Lively acidity infuses this intense red with energy, driving the long finish. Best from 2023 through 2042. 3,127 cases made, 1,290 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Tasted blind. Lustrous mid ruby. Brooding yet quite closed on the nose. Ripe and sweet and at the same time tangy and elegant. It has everything: lots of tangy fruit, gripping tannins and elegant palate weight.
- Walter Speller
The Canalicchio di Sopra 2016 Brunello di Montalcino shows balance and symmetry with that difficult twofold delivery of power and elegance. This terrific new release shows dark fruit and tart cherry, but then unwinds slowly to reveal light spice, toasted nut, blue flower and crushed limestone. The wine affords a genuine sense of place with roots in the northern half of the appellation where the light is whiter and the nights are cooler. That brilliant luminosity appears in the pure quality of fruit and the sharp focus of the mouthfeel, driven by balanced tannins and acidity. The sensation it gives is compact and long, without too much extra volume or padding. This wine is like a contoured, chiseled and carefully polished marble statue that you would see in a Renaissance church. Production is an ample 44,218 bottles.
- Monica Larner
The 2016 Canalicchio di Sopra Brunello di Montalcino is flat-out stunning, remarkably vibrant and an almost-ethereal expression. There’s an exotic citrusy tinge to its ripe black cherries, taking on hints of sage, cedar and allspice, all grounded by moist earth tones. It’s focused and remarkably pure with a noticeable inner sweetness to the red and hints of blackberry fruit, all cast across a silky, feminine frame. The structure builds like a crescendo, as minerals fade to youthful tannins. Juicy acids maintain perfect balance from start to finish, making for a surprisingly fresh expression yet with amazing length. There’s simply so much going on here, and there are promises of more good things to come.
- Eric Guido
A dusty, tannic red with plum, red berry and cedar, chocolate and walnut undertones. It’s full-bodied, yet reserved and tight with ultra fine tannins and a vivid finish. A pretty, polished red. Drink after 2022.
- James Suckling
Mid ruby with some brick at the rim. More fruit sweetness but also more developed undergrowth compared with the Altesino Montosoli. Opens to a pretty floral fragrance. Firm, sweet and chewy, the fruit filling out the core. Young and lovely and so moreish.
- Julia Harding MW
Dark red cherries, plums, spices, mint, licorice and hard candy jump from the glass in the estate's 2010 Brunello di Montalcino. Ripe, juicy and deeply expressive, the 2010 boasts stunning mid-palate density. Even with all of its immediacy and voluptuousness, the 2010 has enough structure to drink well for another 20+ years. The Canalicchio Brunellos always offer power, but the 2010 overlays tons of finesse to round things out.
- Antonio Galloni
Dark red cherries, plums, spices, mint, licorice and hard candy jump from the glass in the estate's 2010 Brunello di Montalcino. Ripe, juicy and deeply expressive, the 2010 boasts stunning mid-palate density. Even with all of its immediacy and voluptuousness, the 2010 has enough structure to drink well for another 20+ years. The Canalicchio Brunellos always offer power, but the 2010 overlays tons of finesse to round things out.
- James Suckling
Deep ruby with narrow orange rim. Quite herbal and savoury more than fruity at first, and really closed. Tightly packed fruit palate and richly tannic. A little austere at the moment, yet elegant and with real ageing potential.
- Walter Speller
A solid red, displaying cooked plum and cherry flavors on a bed of dense tannins. Tight and compact on the finish, where youthful, exuberant tannins reign. Stays long and balanced in the end. Best from 2019 through 2034. 3,333 cases made, 1,250 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino is a gorgeous, striking wine. Sweet macerated cherries, tobacco, licorice, spice and mint are all laced together in a super-expressive, resonant Brunello endowed with real class. Open-knit and seductive, the 2011 will drink well with minimal cellaring. This is an especially delicate, sensual Brunello that speaks to the finesse that is possible on the northern side of Montalcino, and a terrific example of the year at its very best. With time in the glass, the 2011 starts to shut down, which may be a very good sign of its potential longevity. In any event, the 2011 Brunello is a winner. Proprietor Francesco Ripaccioli gave the 2011 a bit less time in oak than is customary. Production was just 28,000 bottles as opposed to the 50,000 bottles that were produced between the straight Brunello and Riserva in 2010 (there is no Riserva in 2011.)
- Antonio Galloni
A silky, refined red with plum, berry and cherry aromas and flavors. Full body. Lots of ripe fruit but not overdone. Chewy with polished tannins and a refined finish. Really excellent for the vintage. Needs a year or two to soften: better in 2017.
- James Suckling
Tasted blind. Maturing ruby with orange rim. A little bit stalky, but with brooding fruit underneath. The fruit makes quite a big impact on the palate, but is wonderfully matched by lots of grainy tannins and juicy acidity. A tiny bit singed, but overall irresistible.
- Walter Speller
A perfumed version, this reveals cherry, strawberry, spice and leather flavors, with briar and tobacco accents. Firm and a bit gruff on the finish, but this hangs together in the end. Best from 2018 through 2027. 2,361 cases made, 700 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Luminous red. Intense aromas of red cherry, licorice and tar are complicated by a strong note of torrefaction. Deep dense and suave, with youthfully chewy tannins and a slightly herbal nuance to the dark plum and coffee flavors. Still more notes of torrefaction and coffee emerge with aeration. This brooding, strapping Brunello will require patience.
- Ian D'Agata
Wonderfully aromatic and fresh with plum, flower and citrus character. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a delicious finish. So much finesse. Drink or hold.
- James Suckling
Tasted blind. Mid to deep ruby with orange tinges. Lifted, peppery and full nose, but not entirely open. Gorgeous cherry fruit tightly packed with tannins. Finely tuned like a sports car, if really tannic for the moment.
- Walter Speller
Loads of balsamic aromas and flavors—juniper, rosemary, thyme, olive—along with cherry, sanguine and tobacco notes are the hallmarks of this intense red. Well-integrated and complex, building to a long aftertaste. Best from 2021 through 2035. 3,400 cases made, 1,250 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Ripe berry and dried orange peel character follow through to a full body, round and velvety tannins and a juicy finish. A more fruit-forward style for this estate. Better in 2019.
- James Suckling
Maturing ruby with bright orange tinges. Still a little closed on the nose and with compact fruit that is slow to unfurl on the palate. Impressive balance and concentration. Spicy cherry fruit on the finish and powerful tannins. Put this away for a couple of years.
- Walter Speller
The 2014 Brunello di Montalcino definitely shows the more accessible and easy-drinking side of this celebrated Sangiovese-based appellation in southern Tuscany. The wine offers all the prerequisite Brunello characteristics of wild berry and tobacco with pressed violets and fresh potting soil. However, those characteristics are presented at a notch or two of decreased intensity. This is quality common to the great majority of Brunellos I tasted from the 2014 vintage. I recommend this wine to lovers of Brunello looking for a wine to drink within the next ten years. Some 15,037 bottles were made.
- Monica Larner
Good deep red. Perfumed aromas of musky raspberry, cherry cola spices and flowers. Round and deep in the mouth, with lovely sweetness and a light touch to the red fruit and cedar flavors. Finishes long, pure and linear. The youthful, chewy but noble tannins will reward mid-term aging.
- Ian D'Agata
There’s good energy in this Brunello with quite ripe red-fruit aromas leading to a palate that has handsomely grainy tannins and an impressively deep, red-cherry core. Nice structure and build. Drink or hold.
- James Suckling
Francesco Ripaccioli called the 2014 harvest never-ending. After dropping any unhealthy grapes mid-September, 80% of what remained was picked for the Rosso on 25 September. The Brunello harvest, beginning on 5 Oct, consisted of only the smallest, most concentrated bunches, which in other years would 'give marmalade', notes Ripaccioli. The resulting wine is one of the successes of the vintage. Quite piercing and perfumed, its floral and red fruit tones are countered by touches of smoke and earth which linger remarkably. There's plenty of nerve and fine-boned tannin to support. Without lacking substance, this captures Sangiovese's glorious lightness of being.
- Michaela Morris
This fragrant red opens with scents that evoke violet, rose, perfumed berry and an earthy whiff of damp soil. On the lithe palate, you'll find sour cherry, pomegranate and star anise set against polished tannins. Vibrant acidity lends balance and energy. Drink through 2024.
- Kerin 0'Keefe
Pale to mid ruby. Very pure, direct, aromatic nose of definitely ripe fruit – impressive! Good build with light tannins and just the right amount of acidity. Arguably more Sangiovese than old-school Brunello but none the worse for that.
- Jansis Robinson
Lean and sinewy, with savory flavors of loam, soy, tobacco and woodsy spice surrounding a core of cherry fruit. Subtle and firm, finishing with mineral and woodsy spice accents. Best from 2020 through 2032. 1,550 cases made, 300 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
Another great interpretation for this firm. On the nose, alcohol-infused marasca cherries with touch of undergrowth from fresh marjoram. Balsamic in the mouth, a pleasant juiciness and tautness. Officinal fresh notes returning on the finish.
- Luca Gardini
Spicy nose for this very fine Brunello: fresh spices, alcohol-infused cherries, blackberries. A wonderful acidity emphasized in the mouthfeel that is ample, with perfectly integrated tannins for an impressive persistence.
- Luca Gardini
Great and decisive tannic sharpness for this product which is, also this one, of great aging potential. Its nose is very variegated, with leather, freshlycut grass aromas and a balsamic but not excessively marked end. It seems mostly fresh, breezy and irreverent while drinking. Its age will enrich it with wisdom and (perhaps) truth
- Luca Gardini
Violet, some touches half way between mint and rose, and a red ripe fruit are the sensations that characterize the nose. It does not have a great opening or communicative ability, at least in the initial part of the sip, which remains anchored to tones of violet and sour cherry. From mid sip on, it extends in a soft key, thanks to the appearance of a nice range of spices. Vivacious tannins of an acidic mix.
- Luca Gardini
Brunello from the Northern side. Fruity aromas that do not translate only the roughness of mixed berries but instead flank them with smoother impressions of peach, yellow-fleshed fruit, and plums. A measured taste, once again fruity, even if enriched by the spiciness of red peppercorn and nutmeg. Refined tannic texture.
- Luca Gardini
Intense aromas of underbrush, wild berry, new leather and pipe tobacco lead the way on this fragrant Brunello. Full bodied and elegantly structured, the savory palate features ripe morello cherry, licorice and truffle before a black-tea finish. Firm, refined tannins and fresh acidity keep balanced and give it an ageworthy structure. Drink 2024–2036. - CELLAR SELECTION
- Kerin O’Keefe
Luscious black cherry is the main theme in this racy red, accented by plum, licorice, tar and iron. This is dense, turning more austere as the tannins take hold of the long finish. Shows fine energy, balance and potential. Best from 2025 through 2048.
- Bruce Sanderson
A blend of the Montosoli (60%) and Canalicchio (40%) crus.
Lustrous mid ruby. Closed, with minerally hints. Fantastic focus, concentration and balance and totally poised. Very pure, with long tannins. Enormous concentration yet not heavy. Very young but already irresistible.
-Walter Speller
Canalicchio di Sopra’s estate Brunello is a blend of plots from its home base in Canalicchio, as well as holdings on the Montosoli hill. The 2016 allies the restrained fleshiness of the former and the salinity of the latter with a balsamic dash. Scents of lilac and bay laurel turn to pure dark cherry on the palate, which is laced with liquorice and stone. Suave tannins maintain a grainy grip and there is no lack of mouthwatering acidity. Thrilling umami finish!
Drinking Window 2023 - 2035
- Michaela Morris
"This shows beautiful balance and drinkability, with firm and slightly
chewy tannins, yet the fruit is pure and flavorful. Some bark and
crushed-stone undertones. Very drinkable now, but better in 2023."
- James Suckling
Deciso e ricco di carattere mostra note miste floreali e fruttate che ricordano i fiori di ibisco, i gerani, la passiflora, le mandorle tritate ed il caramello dolce. Corpo medio-pieno, tannini morbidi di piacevole grana fine ed un finale succoso e balsamico di notevole bellezza. Meglio dal 2022.
- Raffaele Vecchione
The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is wildly perfumed, dusty and exotic, with balsam herbs, savory spices, red currants and plums coming across as so pretty yet rich and potent. A silky display of sour wild berries contrasted by candied citrus wows the senses as the 2017 plays a zesty sweet-and-sour act upon the palate. It’s long, youthfully chewy, yet still remarkably fresh, with rosy florals and tart, tart cherries giving way to chiseled tannins through the finale. This is a beautiful rendition of the 2017 vintage, one that takes the dry warmth of the year and expresses it with tremendous energy and verve. What's more, I revisited this bottle over the course of 36 hours and it only got better with time.
- Eric Guido
Considering the location of Canalicchio di Sopra’s vineyards to the east and north of Montalcino there should be every reason to think that 2017 would not pose the problem to making a top Annata. Francesco Ripaccioli would likely smile that wry smile when he knows that the year was in fact a magnanimous challenge but he would also follow up with that confident smile of this. Ripaccioli has the fortune and the instincts, to mix and match, to layer and compliment, to figure with mathematical precision and this wine expresses all that an more. There is cut and linearity, a finest architectural line and a freshness that belies what heat might want to take control. A fine classico for Montalcino that speaks to the best of all worlds within. Drink 2023-2030. Tasted November 2021.
- Michael Godel
Another success in the path of the Ripaccioli family in search of the best possible quality. Nose of pomegranate, with notes of fresh thyme and touches of carnation. The mouthfeel is taut, with excellent density, salty tannins and a nice persistence.
- Luca Gardini
Absolutely smooth and precise as is common with all the wines of Canalicchio di Sopra, I love the purity in this wine, all up front gorgeous fruit aromas and flavours, but there are still elements of complexity that linger long in your memory and taste buds. The vintage was a great one in Montalcino and owner Francesco Ripaccioli made one sensational wine after another.
- Ian D'Agata
Canalicchio di Sopra began harvesting Brunello on 25 September - just one day earlier than in 2016. Francesco Ripaccioli credits the significant diurnal temperature differences during the preceding month for measured ripening as well as preservation of acidity. The estate Brunello, which is a blend of vineyards in the Montosoli and Canalicchio zones, starts with smoky, flinty notes then gives way to intense herb blossoms. The palate is where it really struts its stuff at the moment, particularly the texture. It grips confidently in all the right places. Packed with flavours of small forest berries and dusty gravel, it finishes with a refreshing salty kick. Drinking Window 2023 - 2031
- Michaela Morris
As you drive downhill from the hamlet of Montalcino on its north side, you pass the Canalicchio di Sopra winery, which is located in a shallow, sun-lit basin of vines. This estate is meticulous and studied in its winemaking philosophy, and the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is an expression of that concentration. This warm-climate Brunello reveals awesome purity and intensity with wild cherry, almond and lilac spread over a tonic, mid-weight finish. This wine awards plenty of elegance in a vintage that was not easy and not prone to such nuance. Production is exactly 39,989 bottles.
-Monica Larner
Aromas of underbrush, blue flowers and ripe black-skinned fruit mingle with new leather. The concentrated, full-bodied palate doles out ripe plum, fleshy black cherry, star anise and tobacco set against velvety, enveloping tannins. A great performance for the scorching vintage, you won't have to wait long before enjoying this, but it will also offer years of fine drinking. Drink 2023–2029.
- Kerin O’Keefe
This red bursts with sweet, ripe cherry and plum fruit, with tobacco, leather and mineral elements adding depth as it builds to a lingering conclusion. Shows fine balance, a vibrant structure and excellent length. Spicy aftertaste. Best from 2024 through 2042.
- Bruce Sanderson
Just mid ruby. Some development on the nose with hints of forest floor but with quite pure cherry fruit underneath. Concentrated, focused cherry palate with a minty edge and bags of chewy tannins. Very long and gripping finish.
- Walter Speller
Reviewed by Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler
Warmduftige Nase nach Kirschen und Veilchen; saftiger Auftakt, die Tannine und die Säure in perfekter Symbiose, viel Saft und Schmelz bis ins Finale. Ein Allrounder.
- Christian Eder
Ruby red in colour. Sour berries vie with candid citrus fruits. Aromatics of sweet perfumed florals and spice have you rolling from side to side. Silky soft textures perform aerobatics on the mid palate. Contains the ‘Big Bang” of energy at its core. Brunello 2017 vintage…I can’t believe it!!!
- Tony Wood
Another refined Brunello from this winery succesfully led by Francesco Ripaccioli. North-western side of the ‘hill’. To the nose it opens with marasca cherries in alcohol, then nuances of rhubarb and linden. Equally balsamic to the palate, with juicy and dense-crisp tannins. Officinal return on the closure.
- Luca Gardini
Three years of cask ageing.
Lustrous mid ruby with orange tinges. Finely spiced raspberry, but more savoury than fruity. Hints of cinnamon bark and cherry. Supple yet lively displaying great purity of fruit and super-fine sandy tannins clinging to the fruit. Tannic chew and freshness.
- Walter Speller
Perfumed nose of neroli, bergamot, sandalwood, cherry stones and plums. Full-bodied and richly fruity with gently grainy tannins. Drink after 2023.
- James Suckling
Il frutto maturo esplode da ogni “angolo” del calice. Le note di prugne rosse, fragole, caramello dolce, incenso e cumino mostrano energia e carattere e raccontano nel migliore dei modi il Versante Nord di Montalcino nella località Canalicchio. Corpo medio, tannini perfettamente lineari di incredibile bellezza ed un finale che mostra succo e qualità del frutto impressionante. Meglio dal 2024.
- Raffaele Vecchione
Enstablished in 1992 by Primo Pacenti and one of the 12 founding members of the Brunello Consorzio, Canalicchio di Sopra owns a magnificent 60ha property on the north side of Montalcino, of which 19ha are planted to vines. With its pure, elegant perfume, Canalicchio di Sopra’s 2018 is a marvelously composed wine, with silky-firm texture, fine but firm tannins, succulent, fresh acids, and terrific length. I love the harmony and balance, the lingering, perfumed finish. A very fine wine that will please early on, even now, though surely age gracefully into the ‘30s. Grace and sophistication personified.
-John Szabo
Medium ruby red in colour. White cherry, wild strawberry, goji berries, dry floral underbrush, a dusting of exotic spice, salty liquorice and a hint of cedar balm. Focused. Balanced. Precise. Finely etched minerality. Very persistent intense finish.
- Tony Wood -
Brunello di Montalcino Trophy 2023
- Wolfgang M. Rosam, Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler -
Elegantes, zurückhaltendes Bouquet mit reifen roten und blauen Beeren, dahinter geht es erdig und würzig zu: Liebstöckel, Graphit und trüffelige Sous-Bois-Noten, dazu kommen florale und mit Luft auch ätherische Anklänge, sehr komplex und changierend. Am Gaumen elegant und dicht gewoben, mit feinen ätherischen Noten und einer guten, griffigen Frische. Wie so oft: Ein starker, klassischer Basis-Brunello!
Bright ruby red in colour. Aromas of red fruits and berries and white florals. Compact, forest floor, dried mushroom and blonde tobacco. Savoury. Juicy. Slate minerality. Tannins provide structure that texture, acidity and balance interplay. Still showing youthful tendencies. Linear close.
- Tony Wood -
Deep ruby red in colour with light amber rim. Super concentration of red cherry, berries, blood orange, prune and spice. Earthy notes. Fully placed on its plateau, full bodied but not heavy, white smoke and roast meat notes on the medium length finish.
- Tony Wood -
Bright medium red. Linear red cherry, plum, tar, licorice and violet aromas. Currently youthful and still chunky, with deep flavours similar to the aromas, this will develop nicely in a good cellar and reveal a complex, multilayered personality. Finishes long and with very smooth tannins.
- Ian D'Agata -
Guida 2024 - sezione "Vini da vitigni autoctoni"
Rauchig-würziges Bouquet mit einer schönen Liaison aus reifer rot- und schwarz beeriger Frucht und floral- und kräuterwürzigen Noten, dahinter getrocknete Veilchen und Zedernwürze. Am Gaumen mit saftig-jugendlicher Frucht, fast kühl und griffig wirkend, feinsandiges Tannin, kraftvoll und dicht gewoben, langes, würziges Finale. 2025 – 2036
- Giuseppe Lauria -
Canalicchio is northeast of Montalcino, criss-crossed by man-made canals, and is known for its clay soils and cooler aspects. Canalicchio di Sopra blends the grapes from around its winery with those from estate vineyards in Montosoli, the other hill northeast of Montalcino, which is drier with warmer western aspects and stonier soils. The blend produces a vibrant nose with notes of fresh bing cherry, and earthy smatterings of underbrush and rust. The cherry fruit is lifted by 2018’s effusive acidity and after it balloons on to the front palate is followed by a meaty savouriness. Tactile ridges of tannin run from mid-palate back, overlaid with a bitterness that balances out the ebullience of the entry.
- Sarah Heller MW -
Assolutamente intrigante e nobile nella matrice principale mostra note miste floreali e fruttate che ricordano il giacinto, le prugne rosse, le fragoline di bosco, il melograno, la buccia di limone, i mirtilli pressati e le foglie di tè nero. In sottofondo cola e bergamotto descrivono la scena secondaria di grande cifra stilistica. Corpo medio, tannini morbidi di ottima grana fine ed un finale sottile e delicato leggermente amaricante in chiusura. Meglio dal 2025.
- Raffaele Vecchione -
Vitae, La Guida Vini 2024 - X edizione
The most recent plantings at Canalicchio were executed in 2009 next to the 1990 La Casaccia vineyard. These vines are maturing and will likely seek entrance into the Vigna label but for now they are picked for this classic Brunello. They may not be grapes of enigma or mystery but they are the epitome of purity and the Brunello represents a high-casted estate style to explain so much about the house of Ripaccioli and Canalicchio di Sopra. The 2019 Brunello is a wine of silkiness but not opulence. A sangiovese that is an extension of a producer’s hands and there is no separating the wine from its maker. As for place well yes because all the vineyards are close enough to one another to combine for unmistakable identity. Drink 2023-2026.
- Michael Godel -
Luminous red. Open-knit red plum, blood orange and red cherry aromas and flavours are complemented by hints of tobacco and herbs. Closes smooth and ripe, with very good palate presence. Drinking window: 2024-2039.
- Ian D'Agata -
Medium ruby red in colour. Intense aromas of blue florals including violet, hyacinth and bluebell, assisted with cedar shavings, liquorice and distant mocha notes. Wild cherry, strawberry, loganberry, blood orange, balsamic notes, complex layered minerality. The entry, can be described as “an iron hand in a velvet glove.” Secondary notes of warm plum and mellow spice. Beautifully extracted. Good weight yet refined and elegant. Light in texture. Impressive.
- Tony Wood -
Elegantes Bouquet mit reifen roten und schwarzen Beeren, dahinter geht es erdig und würzig zu: Lakritz, Graphit und trüffelige Sous-Bois-Noten, dazu kommen florale und mit Luft auch ätherische Anklänge, sehr kom plex. Am Gaumen elegant und distinguiert mit einer guten, griffigen Frische. Ein finessenreicher Basis-Brunello, der die Vorzüge des Jahrgangs zeigt! [2026 – 2038]
- Giuseppe Lauria -
Leuchtendes Rubinrot, funkelnd. Duftend, saftige Kirsche in der Nase, nach süßem Gewürz, Brombeere, sehr fein und einladend, tief, getrocknete Blütenblätter. Saftig am Gaumen, mit toller Spannung und geschliffenem Tannin, mit Zug und klarer Frucht, griffiges Finish. Sehr gut gelungen, toller Brunello.
Brunello di Montalcino Trophy 2024
- Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler -
Produced from vineyards which are over 10 years old, it represents the essence of our concept of terroir: an expression of elegance, depth, and freshness of our Sangiovese, able to unite its balsamic quality of the north side of Montalcino with the opulence of our lands.
DOCG
Sangiovese 100%
Average of 300 Meters Above Sea Level
The vintage Brunello di Montalcino "Canalicchio di Sopra" is the result of a blend of two different soils: Terrain with a marked clay component, very rich in intermediate elements such as Magnesium, Iron and Manganese characteristic of the Cru Canalicchio and a "galestro" soil high with a very high mineral component, loamy texture with a high presence of silt, characteristic of the Cru Montosoli.
The blend favors wines of great minerality and sapidity, supported by excellent acidity ideal for long aging.
Cordon trained and spur pruned (Spurrend cordon)
Grapes from the two estate Crus were used to make this wine (Canalicchio 40% and Montosoli 60%): the choice to increase Montosoli over the traditional 50/50 is due to the better concentration in the grapes in this area.
In steel tanks with fermentation temperature control, daily soft pumping over. Maceration on the skins for 25 days
36 months in slavonian Oak casks (2500 and 5000 Liters)
1966
1618 Bottles by 375 ml
40697 Bottles by 750 ml
1022 Bottles by 1500 ml
79 Bottles by 3 liters
30 Bottles by 5 liters
5 Bottles by 12 liters
3 Bottles by 18 liters
14.50%
The climactic conditions for the 2016 vintage can be summed up as balanced tending to warm without reaching torrid temperatures during the day in the summer months, having significant diurnal temperature ranges, conditions which favoured a perfect polyphenolic maturation while maintaining sustained acidity levels and giving the wines that balance which is found in exceptional vintages, between sweetness and sapidity, acidity and opulence.
From the first of January to mid-March, there was about 220mm of rainfall evenly distributed throughout that period which resulted in a good water reserve for the following months. This regular rainfall which had no damaging effects completely penetrated the soil thus creating an excellent reserve for the hottest season of the year.
During the month of January, we had twelve solid days of below zero daily minimum temperatures helping eliminate spores and mildew which had accumulated over the previous year, optimal conditions for the rebirth of the vines in optimal phytosanitary conditions.
The beginning of March was mostly cool with minimum night temperatures, and this naturally slowed down the budbreak which started around mid-March ensuring a regular harvest time.
Until April 20, the temperatures were mild during the day and cool at night with significant temperature ranges and without rainfall. The mild temperatures along with the good water reserve, which had accumulated in the soil during the winter months, favoured regular and homogenous vine growth, and we carried out a bud selection at the beginning of May. From April 23 to 25, we had three days of heavy rainfall in terms of the quantity for a total of about 45mm, which did not have any negative effects on the vine health as it was immediately followed by a decrease in temperature and especially by the northern/north-eastern winds which immediately dried the air rendering it unfavourable for any mildew diseases of the vines.
The month of May was rainy with a total of about 100mm of rain, accompanied by cooler than average temperatures which slowed down the vines without compromising their health. The rain later proved fundamental during the driest months of July and August.
The month of June saw only two rainstorms with average seasonal amounts of rainfall.
July and August were two perfect months for the maturation of Sangiovese grapes with warm but not excessively hot temperatures during the day (never above 35°C) and cool at night. These significant diurnal temperature ranges favoured a slow continual maturation and especially resulted in a thick skin with great quantities of polyphenols.
From budbreak to harvest, there was about 450mm of rainfall, an ideal amount considering that about 40mm fell in the month of September 15 days before the harvest, which is by no means a negligible amount but which in no way affected the quality of the grapes because of its very resistant skin and because the rainfall was immediately followed by winds from the north/north-east. The rainfall on September 18 essentially washed the grapes so that they would then come into the cellar in perfect condition.
The total amount of rainfall from the beginning of the year until the harvest was just under 700mm, optimal conditions for a great vintage.
The temperature analysis is interesting as it is characterised by two main factors:
In summary, there were three fundamental types of climactic conditions which took place at the same time and at the most favorable time which ensured a great vintage
All vineyards were harvested in a short period of time from September 27 to October 5, another piece of data which shows perfect regularity in the maturation.
BALANCE, ELEGANCE, TERRITORIAL IDENTITY: the key words for a historic harvest
We will remember the 2016 vintage as the most beautiful and interesting of the third generation of winemakers at Canalicchio di Sopra. We always have a word in mind to describe a great vintage referring to the climate and this word is BALANCE. The quest for elegance and balance are the qualities that we want to find in our wines, and, when we are helped by a balanced vintage from a climactic point of view, everything is simpler. Nature cannot be controlled, but it can be interpreted. It is up to man to adapt to the ever-changing conditions, which we are given the opportunity to do with every vintage, and to try and understand those signs that define the style of a vintage. But if we could control the climate of a vintage artificially, I believe that I would program it to be just like the year 2016. We believe that the greatness of this vintage lies right here, simply perfect from a climactic point of view without excess and without unexpected events, regular and continual in its pursuit of maturation of the Sangiovese fruit, easy on the eyes and exquisite to taste. In the trend to classify vintages among the finest and the poorest, instead we prefer an approach which valorizes the differences in style of a singular vintage. In this way, 2016 may be defined as a TERRITORIAL vintage: the balanced climate has indeed favoured a precise and detailed reading of the characteristics of each individual cru and the individual vineyards giving them a unique and captivating territorial identity. The strength of Sangiovese in this vintage is read as depth and length, its minerality as sapidity, its sweetness as silkiness of the tannins, and everything is held up by a vibrant acidity which imparts freshness and drinkability. Canalicchio and Montosoli, our two areas of production, expressed themselves in a precise and identifiable way by allowing the unique qualities of the diverse terrain to emerge.
The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino is a beautifully round and opulent wine that bursts open with vitality and a rush of immediate fruit. It shows lasting intensity with dried cherry, plum, blackberry, spice, leather and tobacco. Generally speaking, the aromas are soft and enduring. This wine offers enormous pleasure upfront and can be consumed within the next ten years. The wine is less adapted for long aging given the approachable tannins and ripe fruit flavors. In its current form, it is a delicious Brunello. Monica Larner
The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino will blow you away. This is a delightful expression that boasts its extreme quality from the minute the wine is poured from the bottle. As you should expect, it just gets better and better with each additional minute in the glass. It opens to a vibrant dark ruby color and blackish-garnet hues. The bouquet is ever changing and shows a long succession of aromatic characteristics that rage from dark fruit, plum, spice, leather, licorice, red rose, balsam and grilled herb. It's textbook Brunello from a great vintage and this side of the appellation (on the northeastern side) performs fantastically in 2010. This beauty should hold fifteen years or more. Monica Larner
The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino is a standout expression with long and polished notes of dried fruit and tobacco presented in a smooth and seamless fashion. It shows good structure and balance but an even prettier nose with ethereal balsam herbs, tar, licorice and pressed violets that emerge as the wine evolves in the glass. The wine hints at a greater evolution to come. Drink: 2017-2022. Monica Larner
The 2008 Brunello di Montalcino is fabulous. An exciting melange of dark cherries, plums, tobacco, licorice, mocha and herbs take shape in the glass. Powerful, rich and structured, the 2008 wraps around the palate with serious depth. The Canalicchio Brunellos often have an element of wildness to them, as does the 2008, but the wine also has a track record of aging very well. This is an intriguing Brunello, to say the least. The 2008 has more than enough depth to stand up to 36 months in cask. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2028. Canalicchio di Sopra is one of my favorite properties in Montalcino. The wines are consistently outstanding, have plenty of personality and also age beautifully. Antonio Galloni
Plump and bursting with cherry, strawberry and mineral aromas and flavors, this racy red evokes harmony and freshness, with hints of spice, chocolate and tobacco as it plays out gracefully on the long aftertaste. There's structure here, with all the components integrated. Best from 2020 through 2035. 2,870 cases made, 1,100 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is elegant and tight with dried cherry, earthy root, pressed violet and exotic spice. The wine's long mandatory aging period has added to its aromatic intensity and textural weight. You also recognize that special complexity that comes with Sangiovese when grown in this sunny appellation on the southern side of Tuscany. This is a solid wine with 36,237 bottles released.
-Monica Larner
This juicy red is highlighted by plum, black cherry, tomato leaf, eucalyptus and mineral flavors. Starts out ripe and balanced, turning drier on the tobacco- and spice-tinged finish. Vibrant and long. Best from 2025 through 2040.
- Bruce Sanderson -
Dusty violets, lavender and cloves accentuate dried black cherries as the dramatic 2019 Brunello di Montalcino smolders up from the glass. This is impossible to ignore, bursting with energy as depths of ripe red fruits, chalky minerals and exotic spices saturate all they touch, balanced by textures of pure silk. The 2019 finishes with fantastic length and concentration, leaving a staining of tart blackberry and hints of orange that curl the tongue as crunchy tannins tug at the palate. It's rare to see such a combination of vibrancy and power. Canalicchio di Sopra nailed it in 2019. Wow. Drinking window 2026-2042
Canalicchio di Sopra is high on my shortlist of favorite producers in Montalcino. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino is a sumptuous wine made according to carefully considered criteria. Every step of the winemaking process represents a selection of sorts, culminating in an expression of extremes. The precision, the focus and the pristine nature of the aromas cannot be exaggerated. It is such a pleasure to taste a wine of this caliber and distinction. Aromas of dark fruit and savory spice find seamless integration. Background tones of balsam herb, cola and licorice add a superior level of complexity. In the mouth, the wine is polished, fine and silky. The mouthfeel is thinner compared to 2011 and 2010. Otherwise, this is a fabulously elegant Brunello. Monica Larner
Aromas of dark berry, mint, savory herb, blue flower and a balsamic note lead the nose. On the concentrated palate, notes of white pepper, cinnamon, clove, licorice and tobacco add depth to the black cherry core. Youthfully austere but fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity support the juicy flavors. Give this time to open and develop complexity. KERIN O’KEEFE
Canalicchio di Sopra's 2013 Brunello di Montalcino is tight and firm at its core, with qualities that bode very well for its aging potential. That compact core is surrounded by many thick layers of dark fruit and spice that are expressive and expansive. Those outer layers give the wine softness and some immediate accessibility, even at this early stage in its life. All summed up, this is a very complete and characteristic Brunello that offers stunning quality for medium or long-term drinking.
- Monica Larner
Vivid medium-dark red. Hints at black and red fruits on the delicate, refined nose, complicated by nuances of violet and flint. Then smooth and suave in the mouth, with outstanding breadth to the blueberry, sour red cherry, potpourri and floral flavors. Penetrating minerality contributes to the lasting impression of precision and verve. The noble, mouth-coating tannins provide backbone and noteworthy aging potential to this extremely elegant, pure, dense wine. One of the top eight or so Brunellos of the 2013 vintage.
- Ian D'Agata
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is understated in the glass, as swirling brings forward nuances of mint, white pepper, dusty black cherries and flowery underbrush. This is a soft and delicate Brunello from Canalicchio di Sopra, also quite mineral in style, impressing with its smooth contours and finesse, while showing rose-tinged red berries and hints of spice. A coating of gentle tannin lingers through the medium-length finale, along with hints of licorice, as the mouth is left watering for more. The 2018 is a total charmer with a beautiful balance, bolstered by the juice that would usually go into the Riserva.
- Eric Guido
Canalicchio di Sopra has put out a strong set of Brunello from the 2018 vintage, including this particularly impressive 'classic' bottling. As is customary, it blends fruit from holdings on the hill of Montosoli with plots in Canalicchio. The most immediately expressive vintage I have tasted from the estate, the 2018 also packs plenty of promise. Iris, liquorice and balsamic notes are underscored by an alluring truffle accent. The palate is fluid and charming, with chalky tannins that sneak up but remain velvety. Sweet forest berries are countered by minty green freshness, and the finish is positively crisp with tangy cranberry.
- Michaela Morris
With a hint of candied cherry, grenadine or Shirley Temple, the Canalicchio di Sopra 2019 Brunello di Montalcino reveals purple blossom, dried flower, cough drop and balsam herb. The wine is very nicely stitched together with integrated oak that comes through in a structural way but not too much on the bouquet. The tannins do feel dry on the mid-palate, but they remain fine and tight. The alcohol is a bit high in this vintage at 15%. Production is 47,321 bottles. Drink Date 2025 - 2040.
- Monica Larner -
This red sets cherry, plum, earth, iron and underbrush flavors against a fleshy texture and firm structure. A fresh version, with refined tannins supporting the long finish. Best from 2027 through 2042, 1.147 cases imported.
- Bruce Sanderson -
