The Tassi 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Colombaiolo DOCG is a benchmark single-vineyard Brunello from one of the greatest vintages in Montalcino’s modern history. Produced from the Colombaiolo vineyard in Castelnuovo dell’Abate, directly facing the iconic Abbazia di Sant’Antimo, this wine combines power, elegance, and precision at the highest level—earning an exceptional 99 points from Gardini alongside top scores from every major critic.

Planted in 2000 and spanning just 0.9 hectares, Vigna Colombaiolo sits at 300 meters above sea level with an east–south-east exposure, ideal for maintaining aromatic lift and freshness. The loam-based soils rich in calcium contribute to the wine’s mineral backbone, refined tannins, and remarkable longevity.

The 2016 vintage is widely celebrated for its near-perfect growing conditions. A mild spring, warm but balanced summer, and crucial September rains allowed Sangiovese to achieve ideal phenolic maturity, preserving vibrant acidity while delivering soft, perfectly integrated tannins.

Fermented with indigenous yeasts in traditional wooden vats with extended maceration, and aged 36 months in small oak casks (16–25 hl), this Brunello reflects Tassi’s classic, patient approach—built for evolution over decades.

Critical Acclaim & Scores

• 99 Points – Gardini
• 95 Points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
• 94 Points – Vinous
• 94 Points – James Suckling
• 94 Points – Decanter

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (95 pts – Monica Larner):
“A classic Sangiovese disposition with bright wild cherry, candied red fruit, leather, dried mint and earthy tones. Elegant, light on its feet, and beautifully expressive.”

Vineyard & Terroir

• Vineyard: Vigna Colombaiolo
• Location: Castelnuovo dell’Abate, Montalcino
• Facing: Abbazia di Sant’Antimo
• Vineyard Size: 0.9 hectares
• Year Planted: 2000
• Altitude: 300 m a.s.l.
• Exposure: East / South-East
• Soil: Loam texture with significant calcium content
• Training System: Spurred cordon
• Vine Spacing: 2.5 m x 0.8 m

Winemaking & Aging

• Grape Variety: 100% Sangiovese
• Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts
• Vessels: Wooden vats
• Maceration: 20–25 days
• Aging: 36 months in small oak barrels (16–25 hl)
• Style: Traditional, structured, age-worthy Brunello

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby with garnet reflections
• Aromas: Wild cherry, dried raspberry, leather, mint, herbs, espresso
• Palate: Medium-to-full bodied, vibrant acidity, finely etched tannins
• Finish: Long, mineral, savory, and precise

Food Pairing Suggestions

• Braised beef or veal
• Lamb with herbs
• Game dishes
• Truffle-based pasta
• Aged Pecorino Toscano

Cellaring Potential

25–30+ years
One of the most age-worthy Brunellos of the vintage. Stunning now with extended decanting, but best after further cellaring.

Why This Wine Matters

• One of the highest-rated Brunellos of 2016
• Rare single-vineyard bottling
• Facing the Abbey of Sant’Antimo
• Traditional long aging
• Elite critical consensus across all major publications

This is a true collector’s Brunello—a wine that defines the greatness of the 2016 vintage and the precision of Fabio Tassi’s vision.