Libero Brunello di Montalcino (2018)

About this wine

This Brunello di Montalcino presents a deep, dark red color and offers powerful aromas of ripe black cherry and liquorice. On the palate, it is juicy and spicy, featuring dark fruit flavors complemented by smooth, elegant tannins. The finish is long and nutty, leaving a lasting impression. The wine is crafted from Sangiovese grapes grown in two distinct microclimates within Montalcino, contributing to its complexity. The northern vineyards, situated at higher elevations, enhance acidity and fruit intensity, while the southern vineyards add depth and richness to the wine.

About the grape

Sangiovese, whose name means "blood of Jupiter," is a red grape variety that has been cultivated in Italy for centuries. In the Montalcino region of Tuscany, a unique clone of Sangiovese, known as Sangiovese Grosso or Brunello, was identified in the 19th century. This clone is renowned for producing wines with deep color, robust tannins, and high acidity, making it ideal for long-term aging. The 2018 Lazzara Vineyards Libero Brunello di Montalcino is crafted exclusively from this Sangiovese Grosso clone, adhering to the region's strict regulations that mandate 100% Sangiovese content for Brunello wines.

Quick facts

• 🏅 Brunello di Montalcino was the first Italian wine to receive the prestigious DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) status in 1980, highlighting its exceptional quality and strict production standards.
• 🍇 The name 'Brunello' translates to 'little dark one,' referring to the small, dark berries of the Sangiovese Grosso grape used exclusively in its production.
• ⏳ Brunello di Montalcino is renowned for its remarkable aging potential, with well-made examples from exceptional vintages often developing for several decades.
• 🌄 The Montalcino region, where Brunello is produced, enjoys a unique microclimate influenced by both the sea and the nearby Monte Amiata, contributing to the wine's distinctive character.
• 🍷 Brunello di Montalcino must be aged for at least five years before release, including a minimum of two years in oak barrels and four months in the bottle, ensuring its complexity and depth.

Palate profile

Producer

LaZarre Wines is a small, family-run venture established in 2003 by veteran Central Coast winemaker Adam LaZarre and his wife, Angie. Initially focusing on high-end, single-vineyard Pinot Noir, the winery has expanded its portfolio to include varietals such as Merlot, Albariño, Sauvignon Blanc, Vin Gris, and Chardonnay. Sourcing fruit from esteemed vineyards across California's Central Coast, including regions like Pine Canyon, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Rita Hills, Paso Robles, and Edna Valley, LaZarre Wines is committed to producing limited-production wines that reflect the best offerings of each vintage. The winery emphasizes high quality, small-lot production, and a unique, approachable style.