Introduction
The 2017 Franco Pacenti Canalicchio Brunello di Montalcino is a bold yet elegantly structured wine, capturing the essence of Tuscany’s renowned Montalcino region and showcasing the Sangiovese grape at its finest. This vintage offers depth and complexity, reflecting the warm growing season and Franco Pacenti's dedication to traditional Brunello winemaking.

Terrior
Located in Montalcino’s Canalicchio area, Franco Pacenti’s vineyards benefit from clay-limestone soils that add complexity and richness to the wine. The warm, dry 2017 season encouraged deep fruit concentration, while cooler nights preserved acidity. The terroir here, marked by hillside exposure and unique soil composition, adds layers of structure and minerality to the wine.

Appearance
The wine presents a deep garnet core with brick-red edges, showing slight age and classic Sangiovese character. Its clarity and depth hint at concentration and age-worthy potential.

Nose
A compelling and complex bouquet featuring aromas of ripe black cherry, red plum, and blackberry, underscored by layers of dried rose, leather, and tobacco. Notes of earthy truffle, baking spices, and a touch of menthol emerge with aeration, adding aromatic depth.

Palate
Full-bodied and structured, with an assertive yet refined tannin presence that is balanced by bright acidity. Flavors of dark cherry, wild berry, and dried cranberry dominate, complemented by secondary notes of leather, cedar, and licorice. The wine shows remarkable balance between power and finesse, with a rich texture and mineral undertones.

Finish
The finish is long and layered, leaving lingering impressions of dark fruit, spices, and a hint of savory herbs. Integrated tannins provide a mouth-coating structure, suggesting great aging potential.

Overall Impression
The 2017 Franco Pacenti Canalicchio Brunello di Montalcino is an elegant and expressive wine that highlights the traditional style of Brunello, with complex fruit and earthy nuances. This wine is approachable now, especially with decanting, but it will also reward extended cellaring, allowing the tannins and flavors to evolve over time.

Published Rankings
James Suckling Rating: 94

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: Franco Pacenti
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: Italy
Region: Tuscany, Montalcino
Grape Varietals: Sangiovese (Brunello)
Vintage: 2017
Wine Style: Full-bodied red
Winemaking Techniques: Traditional fermentation in stainless steel, aging in large Slavonian oak casks for 36 months
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Bottle
Closure Style: Cork