Cerretalto is Casanova di Neri's most prized Brunello; the estate was founded by Giovanni Neri in 1971 and is now run by his son Giacomo. It comes from a single vineyard, a natural amphitheatre sloping down towards the Asso stream on the eastern side of Montalcino, and is only made in the best years.
And 1997 is no ordinary year: in Tuscany it was hailed as one of the vintages of the century, with perfectly ripe, healthy grapes. Almost thirty years on, the wine has reached an evolved, complex stage.
In the glass: ripe and jammy red fruit, leather, tobacco, forest floor, spice and balsamic notes, with tannins now smooth. A rare bottle, for a special occasion or for collectors of Montalcino's great vintages.
At a glance: Sangiovese grosso 100% · 14% ABV · 0.75 l · Casanova di Neri, Montalcino