The Siro Pacenti 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Vecchie Vigne remains one of the most contemporary wines to emerge from this sun-kissed appellation in southern Tuscany. You taste the richness and suppleness of its dark fruit and abundant blackberry. However, the wine also offers hints of exotic spice, savory tobacco and even a touch of talc powder or buttered popcorn that comes from the oak (it sees 24 months in French barrique). Indeed, this wine's lactic signature remains strong. This adds to the distinctively creamy, viscous and rich nature of the full-bodied mouthfeel. Fruit comes from old vines ranging from 35 to 50 years old. Stylistically, some of the intricacies of Sangiovese are sacrificed in the name of texture and density. Some 25,000 bottles were released in January 2020.

During my visit to the Siro Pacenti winery last year, I tasted a few future releases including the 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva PS. I will have an official review of that when we are closer to its 2021 release.

Galloni 94,

The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Vecchie Vigne presents an extroverted mix of both red and blue berry fruits, complemented by notes of sweet spice, milk chocolate and plum. On the palate, silky textures play host to ripe red and black fruits, laced with savory herbs, hints of olive, and saline-minerals. The finish is long and structured, resonating on zesty acids and spice, as notes of dried cherry and dark inner florals slowly fade. To be honest, I didn’t expect such a brilliant and balanced showing on the palate, and I believe that once the Vecchie Vigne sheds some of its sweet fruit on the nose, it will show beautifully from start to finish.

-- Eric Guido

Wine Spectator 95, A light touch of oak is well-integrated with the cherry, plum and wild herb flavors in this powerful yet balanced red. A distinctive saline quality plays out on the long finish. A little less fruity than many of its peers, but no less complex. Best from 2023 through 2042. 2,300 cases made, 700 cases imported. — BS