1997 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio al Vento
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The 1997 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio al Vento impresses for its symmetrical, sensual personality. Powerful yet seamless tannins support layers of dark, sensual fruit in this textured, round Brunello. The wine's richness and depth are pure pleasure. There is more than enough structure for the 1997 to continue to drink well for a number of years. In 1997 spring frost reduced yields dramatically. The harvest took place on September 22, quite early at the time, but on the late side by today's standards.
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Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 1997 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio al Vento is, as always, one of the last wines of the appellation to be released, and demonstrates the virtues, but also the limits, of the vintage. The garnet color is dark but beginning to mature, the nose of plums, truffles, and Mediterranean brush expansive and classic, and the palate is broad, very solid, firm and meaty on the flow and finish and with ample power in reserve. But the freshness, the fruit, and the vibrancy of less unrelievedly hot vintages are not there. Drink: 2005-2017. Importer: Palm Bay International, Port Washington, NY; tel. (516) 802-4700.
Medium-deep red. Somewhat medicinal nose shows more peat, coffee grounds and exotic oak than primary fruit. Then moderately dense and sweet in the mouth, with flavors of dried fruits, underbrush and chocolatey oak. Finishes with big, slightly dry, tongue-dusting tannins and good length. Also tasted: 1998 Brunello di Montalcino*.