2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva "Madonna del Piano"

Dark and radiant, the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Madonna del Piano Riserva seduces with an array of dried black cherries, plums and mint complicated by crushed ashen stones and a dusting of cacao. This marries the power of the site with the energy of the vintage, enveloping the senses in creamy textures and masses of red and black fruits as a stimulating core of acidity and crisp mineral tones add contrast. The 2019 tapers off exceptionally long and potent, flexing its fine tannins as echoes of blackberry and licorice fade. This is a beast in need of taming. - Eric Guido (02/2025)

Breathtaking purity of fruit here with such depth and presence. Full-bodied, yet you don’t see it. Weightless, this has a solid core of fruit plus refined and intense tannins that build in the finish. It’s rather endless and seamless. Give this four or five years to come around, but if you have a chance to taste it, don’t hold back. Best after 2028 and beyond. (12/2024)

Laced with black cherry, blackberry, violet and iron flavors, this red is lush and velvety. There's a strong base of fine-grained tannins and an impressive core of fruit that goes on seemingly for minutes on the finish. An enticing combination of impressive fruit and structure. Best from 2027 through 2045. - Bruce Sanderson (03/2025)