Year of the RABBIT

Classification and total production

Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG

999 numbered bottles of 1.5 l

18 Methusalem numbered by 5 l

The 2016 vintage in Castiglion del Bosco

Characterized by a rather mild winter and spring with higher than average minimum temperatures. This led to a slight advance in budding and a beautiful vegetative expression of the vines. The summer was cool and mild, slowing down the maturation which continued slowly and very balanced. Ripe tannins, rich color and good acidity therefore characterized the Sangiovese of this excellent vintage. The harvest began slightly early and ended however around mid-October as often happens in great years. There is an excellent balance in the maturation of the Sangiovese, this should lead to rich but also very elegant wines.

Vinification and aging

The qualitative excellence of the grapes allowed for prolonged maceration, in addition to the fermentation times. The wine was aged in selected French oak barriques for 36 months.

Organoleptic notes

“This Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2016 is a true masterpiece. The nose perceives intense hints of ripe fruit such as cherries and plums, enriched by delicate spices such as cinnamon and pepper. On the palate, the balance between soft tannins and acidity makes it a truly pleasant wine, with a final persistence that makes you want to repeat the tasting. This wine is perfect to accompany red meats, aged cheeses and pasta with hare sauce, and should be served at a temperature of 18-20°C to best enhance all its characteristics.”

– Cecilia Leoneschi, January 2023

 

LEILA DEAR

The Year of the Rabbit label is based on an ancient model, originally from China and widespread throughout the world. The three rabbits symbolize peace, tranquility and luck through this visual motif. Leila Dear is a 2012 alumna of the Prince’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts in London, where she majored in manuscripts, geometry and sacred symbology. Leila is inspired by the natural world and often works with raw materials, extracting pigments from collected minerals and ocres for use.

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