This wine reaches into the deep end of the Brunello intensity spectrum. The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Pian delle Vigne Vignaferrovia is a compact and robust expression of Sangiovese that presents a thick core of dark fruit followed by savory tones of tobacco, spice and cured leather. You might mistakenly conclude that this vintage offers a more international interpretation of Montalcino (with 30 months of oak aging), but I don't necessarily believe this to be the case. The wine is instead accurately reflective of Sangiovese with more textural richness, sunshine and structure locked within. This Riserva embodies a sense of place more than it does winemaking style. Some 13,200 bottles were made.

I can just smell all the thought and hard work that evidently went into making the 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Pian delle Vigne Vignaferrovia. This wine is the fruit of important discussions, contemplation and decision-making. I say that because I know how challenging the 2012 vintage was for people who farm Sangiovese. That effort has paid off handsomely because this is a complete and layered wine that makes a careful presentation of bold primary fruit that segues to secondary aromas of spice and tobacco. Generally speaking, I like the 2013 vintage far better than 2012, but this wine has pulled itself forward to earn a high score, thanks to its sheer willpower and determination.

Here's a wine that opens to a beautifully dark and bold appearance. The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Pian delle Vigne Vignaferrovia sees fruit sourced from a slightly higher altitude compared to the Brunello annata. As a result, you get more definition and sharpness here. This Brunello shows a great level of depth and structure with soft lines, a rich texture and general opulence. The wine is aged in small barrel and sees a second phase of aging in larger oak casks.

From the Antinori family estate in Montalcino, this new riserva shows a concentrated mouthfeel brimming with dark fruit followed by cherry, tobacco, leather, cigar box and pressed red-rose petals. The acidity is perfectly balanced and the wine feels soft and lush on the palate. — (5/1/2013) —93

This excellent vineyard designate Brunello Riserva opens with a very elegant nose that includes elements of spice, toast, black fruit and dusty mineral. In fact, that pretty mineral note is what defines the wine and gives it harmony and personality. The wine is full and dense in the mouth with succulent tannins that need to soften with a little more cellar aging.——M.L.(8/1/2010)—— 93