The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino is impressive for its open-knit, expressive bouquet of violets, dark cherries, minerals, menthol and grilled herbs. Medium in body, the wine delivers gorgeous length and a polished, refined finish. It is a strong effort in this vintage. The estate’s Brunello is made from vineyards in Castelnuovo dell’Abate (70%) and Canalicchio (30%). In 2005 La Gerla did not produce their Vigna gli Angeli bottling and opted instead to add that fruit to the regular bottling. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020. Various America importers, including: Vera Foods, Springfield, NJ; tel. (973) 912-0274; Liberty Wine Selection (Slocum Import), New York, NY; tel. (212) 268-8033; Wine Ware House, City of Commerce, CA; tel. (323) 724-1700

Prune and flowers on the nose follow through to a full body, with chewy tannins and an aftertaste of orange peel and berry. A little chewy and hollow. Maybe it will soften and open a little with bottle age. Best after 2011. 3,085 cases made, 835 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add