1997 Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino Madonna del Piano Riserva
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Tasting notes
The Valdicava 1997 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano, released in 2003, appears more evolved and less cohesive, marked by a difficult cork and a noticeably flabbier profile. Primary fruit has largely faded, replaced by a thick, concentrated texture that still offers residual sweetness set against the austerity of age. Inky and impenetrable in color, the wine feels heavy and broad, presenting a contrast between maturity and the estate’s inherently plump, extracted style.
Critic scores
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 1997 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano is a sweet, opulent wine packed with generous, super-ripe fruit. It is hard not to admire the wine's youthful personality. Still, warm vintages often mute varietal and vineyard character, as is the case here. Admittedly this big, brawny Madonna del Piano lacks some complexity and delineation, but the wine has also aged admirably and should drink well for another decade or so.
Full, deep red. Low-toned aromas of raspberry, mocha, game and menthol, with emerging notes of dried rose and spice cake. Pliant, sweet and dense, with surprisingly cool, primary berry flavors and a solid underlying backbone. A juicy, bright Brunello riserva that saturates the palate. Finishes with dusty, tongue-coating tannins and building currant and leather flavors.