The 2011 Rosso di Montalcino is striking. A round, seamless wine, the 2011 impresses for its voluptuous, caressing personality. Freshly cut roses, sweet red cherries, raspberries and spices blossom in a wine full of breadth, volume and richness. This is one of the best Rossos of the year. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2019. Andrea Cortonesi reflects the best of the artisan spirit in Montalcino. The Uccelliera wines are rich, layered and beautifully textured. Cortonesi vinifies his plots in three major subdivisions, corresponding to the altitude of the vineyards on the slope. Partial aging in French oak gives these Brunellos from the southern Castelnuovo dell’Abate district additional warmth and richness. Readers who want to check out the Uccelliera wines might want to start with the Rosso or the Rapace, which is sublime in 2010, a great vintage for Montalcino. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Skurnik Wines, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300; Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411; Robert Houde Wines, Elk Grove Village, IL; tel. (847) 430-3887

Though firm, this is loaded with raspberry, cherry, leather and spice flavors. Vibrant and beautifully balanced, offering a lingering, juicy aftertaste of fresh fruit and tobacco. Drink now through 2020. 1,900 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Rosso di Montalcino Select to Add