Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Giovanni Neri 2018

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1971 by Giovanni Neri, Casanova di Neri is rooted in the Montalcino region of Tuscany. Over the decades, the estate has grown through thoughtful vineyard acquisitions, now encompassing several crus, and has become renowned for modern-style Brunellos that balance power with elegance. The Giovanni Neri bottling honors the founder and showcases a unique vineyard with mature, expressive vines. 

Producer and Winemaker

Today managed by Giovanni’s son Giacomo Neri along with his sons, the winery maintains a commitment to precise viticulture and minimalist, high-quality winemaking. Their approach brings clarity and finesse to the estate’s Brunello lineup, including the refined, single-site Giovanni Neri. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The fruit for Giovanni Neri comes from a seven-hectare vineyard planted in 1973, located on Montalcino’s southeast-facing slopes. At about 50 years old, the Sangiovese vines flourish in mineral-rich soils, benefiting from excellent exposure and a uniquely balanced micro-climate ideal for the 2018 vintage. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Manual harvesting and meticulous sorting precede spontaneous fermentation in open, temperature-controlled conical fermenters. Maceration lasts approximately 29–32 days. The wine is aged extensively—in large oak for 36 months—followed by additional bottle aging before release. 

Tasting notes

On the nose, expect bright ruby hues with vivid notes of ripe cherry, blackberry, blood orange, exotic spices, and delicately toasted oak. The palate is elegant and enriched in a pleasing manner, with supple tannins, vivid red fruit, spice, and refined structure that speak to the depth of the 2018 harvest. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs beautifully with roasted meats, game, rich pasta dishes, cured meats, and aged cheeses. The wine’s depth, acidity, and finesse make it a versatile and compelling match for savory Italian fare.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16–17 °C in a large red wine glass. A short decant (30–60 minutes) may help reveal its layered aromas and soften its structure.

Storage and Aging Potential

Built to age gracefully, Giovanni Neri 2018 will continue evolving and improving from 2024 through 2040, deepening in complexity and finesse. 

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100% Sangiovese, in keeping with DOCG regulations and the vineyard’s heritage. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 14.5% ABV. 

Scores (sorted by highest to lowest)

• 96 – The Wine Independent (TWI)

• 94 – Wine Spectator

• 93 – Wine Advocate

• 93 – Jeb Dunnuck

• 93 – Vinous Media

• 92 – James Suckling