Uccelliera Brunello di Montalcino 2017

‘Andrea Cortonesi's Uccelliera offers distinctive wines that reflect the characteristics of the Castelnuovo dell'Abate subzone in the southeast quadrant of the appellation. The vineyard is planted at various elevations spread across three tiers. The lower level at 150 meters above sea level sees heavier calcareous marl clay soils. The geology at 250 meters above sea level sees a mix of clay and sandy soils with a much larger presence of limestone and mineral. The highest vineyards at 350 meters above sea level consist of limestone Galestro rocks mixed into primarily clay soils….

 

‘Balsam herbs, cocoa and sweet white smoke give way to crushed black cherry and plum as the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino blossoms in the glass. This is elegance personified, silky, deep and round, yet delivering a core of saline-minerality that creates a savory sensation – umami, in a way – with masses of ripe red fruits and confectionary spices to contrast. The tannins are sweet and round, presenting a chiseled structure; yet it’s not forceful. This tapers off with a tart twang of sour wild berries under an air of lavender and violets. Wow; there is so much concentration and depth here, but also balance. In fact, there’s hardly a sign of this being from a difficult vintage. While I expect it will have a shorter life than an Uccelliera Brunello from a classic year, the 2017 should not be missed. Drink 2024-2029’ 94+ Points – Eric Guido, vinous.com (Nov 2021)