Mate Brunello di Montalcino 2018 750ml

Brilliant, flint ruby red. Earthy hints initially on the nose, carried by fine tea, plus resinous tones, again candied raspberry and rosehip, very seductive. On the palate polished and with a creamy fruit core, spreads excitingly, beautiful harmony, balanced, drinks very well, excellent success.

93 Points - Wine Spectator
The certified organic Máté 2018 Brunello di Montalcino reveals dark layers of black cherry and plum with soft spice, leather and tilled earth. The wine also shows a delicate side with lavender and Mediterranean herb. It feels tart and fresh on the palate, and it offers an accessible, medium-weight texture. There is a hint of cooling mint on the close. Albeit informal, this is a fun and lively Brunello with exactly 12,965 bottles released.

The branding on these bottles appears to be transitioning to "Famiglia Máté." The family has 20 hectares of olives and forests and 6.5 hectares of vines at 320 to 420 meters in elevation. They are working a new vineyard site called Mezzaluna, which is planted to alberello vines. This new parcel is different in terms of altitude and soils, so it should be interesting to see what they decide to do with Mezzaluna. One possibility, I assume, is the production of a vineyard-designate wine in the future. Drink 2024 - 2036