Brunello di Montalcino is a red wine that is known for its complexity and aging potential. When it comes to determining whether it is sweet or dry, it is important to consider the characteristics of the wine and how it evolves over time.
In its early years, Brunello di Montalcino can have a noticeable fruitiness, with flavors of ripe cherries, blackberries, and plums. These fresh fruit flavors give the wine a vibrant and lively character. However, as the wine ages, it undergoes a transformation, losing some of its initial fruitiness and developing more complex and nuanced flavors.
After 10+ years of aging, the sweeter notes of Brunello di Montalcino become more prominent. The dried figs, candied cherries, and hazelnuts start to shine through, adding a touch of sweetness to the wine. These flavors are often complemented by the emergence of sun-baked leather and other earthy notes, which further enhance the wine's complexity.
It is important to note that when we talk about sweetness in wine, we are not referring to the same sweetness as in a dessert wine or a sugary drink. In the case of Brunello di Montalcino, the sweetness is more subtle and balanced, providing a pleasant contrast to the wine's overall dryness.
The dryness of Brunello di Montalcino comes from its tannins and acidity. These elements give the wine structure and a firm backbone, balancing out the sweeter notes and preventing the wine from becoming overly sweet. The tannins also contribute to the wine's aging potential, allowing it to develop and evolve over time.
In my personal experience as a sommelier, I have had the privilege of tasting and evaluating many different vintages of Brunello di Montalcino. The evolution of the wine over time is truly fascinating to witness. Younger vintages tend to showcase more primary fruit flavors and a higher level of tannins, while older vintages offer a more complex and layered drinking experience.
To summarize, Brunello di Montalcino can be considered both sweet and dry, depending on its age. In its early years, it has a vibrant fruitiness, but as it ages, it develops sweeter notes of dried figs and candied cherries, balanced by its inherent dryness. The wine's complexity and aging potential make it a unique and highly sought-after choice for wine enthusiasts.