Brunello di Montalcino Tasting

In this Episode I´m tasting two red wines from Uccelliera. I just want to prepare myself mentally for my upcoming trip to Tuscany. Both wines are made of 100% of Sangiovese grosso a.k.a. Brunello, by Andrea Cortonesi (Azienda Agricola Uccelliera) in the little village Castelnuovo dell`Abate just southeast of Montalcino. 2007 Rosso di Montalcino and 2004 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva.
After Andrea Cortonesi had bought in 1986 in Castelnuovo dell’Abate a nearly ruined farmhouse called Uccelliera with land, he transformed the newly acquired property in a mainly dedicated to viticulture farm. Thanks to his professional know-how Andrea had already achieved success within a few years. His first Brunello di Montalcino was bottled in 1993.
The carefully cultivated vineyards of Andrea Cortonesi are 250 meters above sea level and all extend from Castelnuovo dell’Abate towards Sant’Angelo in Colle. The old alabaster quarries, from whose blocks the Abbey of Sant’Antimo was built, adjoin the vineyards. After smaller acquisitions and some new crops, the vineyard area of the Uccelliera has grown to 6 ha. Although not very high, the terrain offers very good conditions for vine cultivation. The medium-heavy sandy soils are rich in minerals. The alignment of the rows of vines, the careful manual work in the vineyard and the thinning of the grapes produce perfectly matured and flavoured berries.
Andrea Cortonesi is one of my favourite Brunello producing winery! If anyone embodies the amazing growth of Brunello di Montalcino, that person is Andrea (September 3. 2011)

FEATURED WINES

AZIENDA UCCELLIERA. ROSSO DI MONTALCINO
Country: Italy
Wine region: Tuscany
Locality: Montalcino
Vintage: 2007
Classification: D.O.C. Rosso di Montalcino
Variety: Sangiovese

Crimson and open. Fresh and red fruit like kirsch and red currant, but also hints of scorched earth and rustic flavors. Reveals spiciness. The Rosso needs takes its time on the palate, but when its´ on fire it`s getting rounder, with a soft mouth feel and an impact of red fruits. Dusty tannins and vibrant acidity. Juicy with a good finish. Best now (but wait one hour after the bottle has been opened) through until 2015 (September 2011). 90 PS

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AZIENDA UCCELLIERA. BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO RISERVA
Country: Italy
Wine region: Tuscany
Locality: Montalcino
Vintage: 2004
Classification: D.O.C.G. Brunello di Montalcino Riserva
Variety: Sangiovese

Dark crimson and broader to the rim. Intensive aromas of kirsch, candies fruits, tobacco, leather, mint and licorice. Multi-layered and very well interwoven. Wow! On the palate the Riserva is killing you softly. Very supple tannins with a balanced acidity. Full-bodied and well structured. Full of juice and joy. Some mocha and dark chocolate in the back. Extraordinary and long lasting finish. Best now through 2030 (September 2011). 96 PS


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