Producer | Mocali |
Country | Italy |
Region | Tuscany |
Subregion | Montalcino |
Varietal | Sangiovese |
Vintage | 2018 |
Sku | 38585 |
Size | 375ml |
The Mocali estate, acquired by the Ciacci family in the 1950s, is a harmonious blend of vineyards, olive groves, and forests in Tuscany's Montalcino region. Situated southwest at 300-350 meters elevation, this 32-hectare property boasts 6 hectares of vineyards, primarily Sangiovese grosso. The mineral-rich marl and limestone soil, combined with the family's management and expert oenology, yields wines that are ripe, balanced, and distinctly minerally. Known for their approachability when young and ample structure, Mocali's offerings—particularly the "I Piaggioni" Rosso—deliver exceptional quality at remarkably low prices compared to more established Montalcino producers.
I like the floral and herb undertones to this, with potpourri, thyme, bramble berries, cherries and lemons. Bright and tangy yet full-bodied, with silky tannins and ripe, juicy fruit. Zesty finish. Drink or hold.
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino slowly comes to life in the glass with a dark array of steeped plums, lavender and crushed rocks. It,s silky, almost creamy, in texture, with ripe red and black fruits complemented by sweet inner herbal tones and brisk acidity. The 2018 finishes structured and powerful, yet balanced, as a collection of minerals adds a crunchy sensation under an air of violet-tinged inner florals. Mocali did a fine job of integrating the exotic qualities of the vintage with their house style. Well done.
A dense, slightly rustic red, with burly tannins dominating plum, cherry, tamarind paste, earth and iron flavors. Manages to show fruit under those broad shoulders and isn't overly astringent, so give this a few years to integrate (or decant now). Best from 2026 through 2042.
Savory and herbaceous, the 2018 Brunello Di Montalcino offers heady aromas of fresh leather, dried black cherry, balsamic, and toasted cedar. It is medium to full-bodied, with dark fruit and earth tones of turned soil, saline, cherry pit, plum pit, tea leaf, and medicinal herbs. Drink 2025-2030.
Dark ruby with bricky rim. A little stalky and reductive on the nose while hinting at oak and exotic spice. Supple, ripe, dark fruit with lots of tangy acidity and underlying, slightly dry tannins, but the fruit leads on the finish. (WS)