2021 is a modern classic for Brunello. Though yields are low, the wines are vigorous and structured, graceful and full of energy. They marry early appeal with the balance needed for long term ageing.
After a mild winter and a relatively early start to the 2021 growing season, a cold snap in early April brought a sharp frost. That killed many tender young buds, especially in lower-elevation vineyards on water-retentive clay soils, and guaranteed that 2021 would be a vintage of low yields.
After the frost, the weather turned warm and dry. Flowering in May happened quickly and evenly (always a good sign). Summer was hot and dry, but never too hot or dry to cause vines to shut down from heat shock or water stress. Two well-timed rain showers (one in July, one in August) brought water just when it was needed. September behaved perfectly, alternating warm days with cool nights, allowing grapes to keep fresh levels of acidity alongside ripening fruit.
Harvest took place in beautiful conditions, allowing producers to pick at leisure. Although the crop was small, the low yields also meant concentrated fruit. As Eric Guido notes on vinous.com, the 2021 Brunello vintage ‘is one to be excited about’.
