Castello Romitorio: distinctive Brunello for the discriminating
2015 in Montalcino was a great vintage for those who spent time and effort on their viticulture. For an almost perfect textbook growing season, not all producers managed their vines to maximise the considerable potential of their terroirs. We've tasted a good number that have though, and one of these is Castello Romitorio. And we're not the only ones to think so; reputable critics' plaudits are flooding in with deservedly stratospheric scores in recognition of the achievement here.
Castello Romitorio went from Roman fort to monastery to stately home to fort again, all by the Rinascimento. Subsequently it led a shabby life and was completely abandoned after the Second World War. It was purchased, and an attempt at restoration begun in the 1970s, but in 1984 the Chia family bought it. Sandro - a famous artist - was the instigator who first rejuvenated the estate and now his son Filippo has for some time been working to realise the full potential. 2015 is perhaps the year that shows these great vineyards at their best.
Those vineyards are high on the northwest slopes of the hill and surround the imposing manor house. The soils are studded with shells and while the whole estate is very favourably situated, there is a small parcel that consistently makes extraordinary wine and Filo di Seta has certainly produced the goods this time. /CW
Offered subject to remaining unsold; available Autumn 2020
