2006 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva
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Tasting notes
Smoldering embers and crushed ashen stones give way to balsamic spices, a whiff of camphor and, finally, dried black cherries as the 2006 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva grumbles up from the glass. It’s velvety in feel, embellished by admirable weight as masses of mineral-infused red and black fruits saturate the senses, lifted by a subtle twang of citrus. Gravelly mineral tones hint at the 2006's maturity but don’t get in the way as it tapers off with mentholated freshness, leaving nuances of burnt orange and a tinge of hazelnut to fade. Choosing between the 2006 Riserva and Brunello from Sesta di Sopra is like splitting hairs. In the end, this is the bruiser of the bunch but that doesn’t take away from its irresistibility. If anything, it may be the longer-lived wine.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Eric Guido, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva needs quite a bit of time in the glass to show its cards. Layers of dark fruit, spices and licorice flesh out in this muscular Brunello. There is plenty of intensity in the glass, but slight early signs of oxidation suggest the wine may have spent too much time in barrel. I don't quite find the finesse of the estate's best wines.
The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva needs quite a bit of time in the glass to show its cards. Layers of dark fruit, spices and licorice flesh out in this muscular Brunello. There is plenty of intensity in the glass, but slight early signs of oxidation suggest the wine may have spent too much time in barrel. I don't quite find the finesse of the estate's best wines. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. Importers: Premier Wine Co., Richmond, CA; tel. (510) 412-5969