2011 Brunello di Montalcino
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Tasting notes
Streamlined and tight, the 2011 Brunello di Montalcino shows a tight fabric, bright berry aromas and a touch of sour cherry on the finish. Col d'Orcia is a winery in a unique position. Because a good part of the vineyards are located on the lower, southern side of the Montalcino appellation, fruit ripens faster and shows bolder characteristics. At the same time, the house style is classic and unembellished. These two factors don't normally jive together, but this estate does a great job of making sure they do, thanks to rigorous green harvesting and fruit selection. The bouquet is redolent of wild berries, white cherry, dried raspberry and spice. At the back, you'll find delicate tones of cola and rosemary. I'm pleased to see that this wine is not overtly marked by the hot summer.
Critic scores
Average Score
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino Vendemmia is a gorgeous wine for the vintage. Sweet red cherry, plum, iron, wild flowers and mint flesh out. A supple, generous and inviting wine, this radiant, expressive Brunello should drink well for another 15-20 years. Col d'Orcia's 2011 is one of the best Brunellos of the year. The 2011 spent three full years in cask.
Tasted blind. Deep ruby. A tiny bit grubby and closed on the nose. Supple and lively on the palate and still very embryonic. Big tannic structure and lively cherry fruit on the finish. (WS)