2005 Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino

The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino is a dark, brooding wine that flows with the essence of smoke, tar, earthiness, wild cherries and iron. This is one of most rich, concentrated Brunellos of the vintage. Dark and enveloping on the palate, this powerful, virile Brunellos closes with substantial heft. It should age beautifully on the depth of its fruit, but readers will experience a far more complete drinking experience if the wine is given a few years to shed some of its baby fat.

The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino is a brooding wine that flows with the essence of smoke, tar, earthiness, wild cherries and iron. This is one of most rich, concentrated Brunellos of the vintage. Dark and enveloping on the palate, this powerful, virile Brunello closes with substantial heft. It should age beautifully on the depth of its fruit, but readers will enjoy a far more complete drinking experience if the wine is given at least few years in bottle to shed some of its baby fat. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022. Vincenzo Abbruzzese is one of the most outspoken, passionate growers in Montalcino. His beautifully tended vineyards yield some of the richest wines in the region; and that’s where most of the focus is – on the vineyards. The winery itself is unremarkable and is equipped with just the bare essentials. All of the wines are aged in large, neutral oak; what comes through is Abbruzzese’s commitment to low yields, sustainable farming and non-interventionalist winemaking. Unfortunately I was not able to taste the 2008 Rosso in bottle, but several samples tasted from tank and cask seemed quite promising. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907

Aromas of minerals, ripe fruit, a delicate floral character. On the palate it is fresh and fabulous with a long finish. Lots going on here. James Suckling, jamessuckling.com