2010 Brunello di Montalcino

Absolutely stunning aromas of nectarine, orange peel, sweet black cherry, plums and flowers. Licorice and mushroom It's full body, with layers of ultra-fine tannins and hints of tangy acidity. Such beautiful length and beauty to this wine. It's powerful and structured yet shows a gorgeous finesse and length. Truly wondrous. So long and refined. The texture is phenomenal.

The gamy 2010 Brunello di Montalcino does a great job of presenting intensity and elegance all in the same delicious package. That's not easy to do and the excellent 2010 fruit plays a big role in achieving this goal. The wine offers a long succession of aromas that span from ripe fruit, to smoked meat, to grilled herb and soft spice. Delicate tones of licorice, cola and anise seed add life and energy. The list goes on. The wine's mouthfeel is best characterized by softness and structure, a two-fold approach that gives high hopes for the long aging potential of this wine. Valdicava's Brunello will appeal to those who love earthy and leathery notes in their Brunello.

The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino is one of the very best wines I have tasted here in recent years. Dark red cherries, mint, game, smoke, tobacco and licorice are all deeply expressive in a mid-weight, very classic feeling Brunello long on class and personality. Big yet silky tannins frame the dramatic, intense finish. The Valdicava wines are always big, but the 2010 is a bit pulled back, and striking.