"97/100 James Suckling
Lots of bark, forest flowers, black cherries, blackberries and baking spices in the nose. Full-bodied with layers of gorgeous tannins that coat the mouth and give an enticing silky texture that is irresistible. Juicy finish. From organically grown grapes. So beautifully already, but even better in two or three years and beyond
96/100 Michaela Morris, Decanter.com
With unimpeded views towards Monte Amiata in Montalcino’s southeast, the Helichrysum vineyards are characterised by arid, stony soil, winds from the Sahara, and significant temperature differences between day and night. While the 2019 possesses the vintage’s – and this site’s – signature fragrance, it disperses it with measured precision. The subtle progression leads from camomile, liquorice and fennel to cocoa and tobacco. The palate is taut, compact and concentrated yet never heavy. A dark red cherry backdrop is laced with exotic spice, while tactile tannins encircle the core with a terracotta-like cling. Tuck this away for a few years."
Richard visited this renowned estate in the summer of 2019 and was extremely impressed by the rich, powerful wines. Luigi Fabbro and Katia Nuassbaum founded San Polino 30 years ago, and have long been advocates of Organic and biodynamic practices, he drive and energy they exude gives just a hint of the connection they have with the land and soil and the determination to make the most authentic wines possible from their tiny 4 hectare estate.
The 'Helichrysum' vineyards lie at 450m altitude to the south-east of Montalcino, on south facing slopes. The soil is very varied, rocky with marl, and granite type rocks, both volcanic and sedimentary, clay, sandy-loam, red ferrous and white chalky lime. Worked by hand, organically and biodynamically, the canopy is well-managed to produce healthy, juicy, thick-skinned grapes
