2005 Brunello di Montalcino

The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino is impressive for its open-knit, expressive bouquet of violets, dark cherries, minerals, menthol and grilled herbs. Medium in body, the wine delivers gorgeous length and a polished, refined finish. It is a strong effort in this vintage. The estate’s Brunello is made from vineyards in Castelnuovo dell’Abate (70%) and Canalicchio (30%). In 2005 La Gerla did not produce their Vigna gli Angeli bottling and opted instead to add that fruit to the regular bottling. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020. Various America importers, including: Vera Foods, Springfield, NJ; tel. (973) 912-0274; Liberty Wine Selection (Slocum Import), New York, NY; tel. (212) 268-8033; Wine Ware House, City of Commerce, CA; tel. (323) 724-1700

Quite lovely Bordeaux-like maturing ruby with orange tinges. Backward and closed, sweet, almost oriental spice. Lovely freshness and sweetness on the palate with medium-bodied feel. Quite understated and appealing. (WS)

The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino is impressive for its open-knit, expressive bouquet of violets, dark cherries, minerals, menthol and grilled herbs. Medium in body, the wine delivers gorgeous length and a polished, refined finish. It is a strong effort in this vintage. The estate’s Brunello is made from vineyards in Castelnuovo dell’Abate (70%) and Canalicchio (30%). In 2005 La Gerla did not produce their Vigna gli Angeli bottling and opted instead to add that fruit to the regular bottling. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020. ||Various America importers, including: Vera Foods, Springfield, NJ; tel. (973) 912-0274; Liberty Wine Selection (Slocum Import), New York, NY; tel. (212) 268-8033; Wine Ware House, City of Commerce, CA; tel. (323) 724-1700 Wine Advocate.April, 2010