Terralsole Brunello Di Montalcino 2004

2004 Terralsole, Mario Bollag, Brunello Di Montalcino 14% ABV, $55

Decanted 1 hour prior with plenty of sediment present. Firm, dark, dense black fruit,  is the primary feature to start on the nose. Overlaid on that foundation is dried flowers, subtle dried mint leaves, some green tobacco, and savory herbs. The palate has aromatic black cherry, and more savory notes, with a ripe core, but still giving an impression of rusticity with it firm grip and flinty undertones. Later, notes of coffee emerge. Tertiary notes are present, but hard to pin down. Masculine at its heart with long finish, and a little salinity at the end. 90 Pts

Terralsole is located in the south-eastern section of the the Brunello DOCG, near Castelnuovo dell'Abate. Grapes for this Brunello are grown at an altitude of 250m in classic marl. While not officially certified organic, their practices follow the principles of organic farming. The wine spent 28 months in large French tonneaux , and six months in bottle before release.