A rich, voluptuous wine, the 2007 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva wraps around the palate with gorgeous depth and richness. Mocha, espresso, licorice, new leather and cloves are all beautifully layered. The 2007 needs time for the tannins to soften and the oak to integrate, but it is quite pretty and very much in the style of the year. This is classic Uccelliera in its intensity, volume and sheer concentration. French oak shapes the wine and gives it plenty of texture without robbing it of its personality. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. 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

Very pure, with alluring aromas and flavors of strawberry, currant and cherry surrounded by a supple texture. This suave red is firmly structured, with a lingering finish of spice and mineral. Already quite open, but complex and firmly structured. Best from 2015 through 2030. 420 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add