2016 Famiglia Cotarella Le Macioche Riserva
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Tasting notes
Le Macioche's 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Cotarella (closed with a red wax capsule) is an elaborate expression of Sangiovese with nicely ripened fruit that is framed by oak toast, spice and campfire ash. The wine shows a sweet, velvety side with dried cherry and redcurrant, but those secondary oak influences play in a supporting role. The wine's texture and length are also fleshed out with cellar age. Any more toast would be too much.
Critic scores
Average Score
Decanter World Wine Awards
Neal Martin (Vinous)
More reviews and scores
Lustrous mid ruby. Deep and concentrated nose that is not entirely open yet and with a sweet oak note. Rich, sour-cherry palate with energetic acidity and lots of grainy tannins. Very long and well balanced, while the tannins need more time to settle. (WS)
The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva lifts up with a dusty bouquet, as cedar shavings and dried roses give way to spiced cherries and hints of sweet smoke. This is lifted and delicate in feel, with the silkiest of textures carrying a vivid mix of pure plum and strawberry fruit across the palate. Its tannins come in late, clenching the senses through the finale, as inner florals resonate over a tactile coating of salty minerals. This is totally classic, but it needs time to unwind. Nicely done!
A stone’s throw from the renowned Salicutti estate, Le Macioche is a well-ventilated property with warm southeast- to southwest-facing vineyards. High altitudes are suggested by the perfumed, pretty scents of wild strawberry, cedar and rooibos tea. Fluid and light on its feet, it is buoyed by juicy acidity and subtlety, and gripped by terracotta-like tannins. A touch of toast marries well with crunchy red currants. Ready to drink now but sneaky depth will carry this for another decade. There is already a fair amount of sediment so be sure to decant.