Cortonesi 2013 Poggiarelli Brunello di Montalcino ($95)
The Cortonesi family founded their commercial winery In 1985. That same year they released their first Rosso di Montalcino. In 1990 their first Brunello was produced and they were off and running. Since that time they’ve expanded the portfolio with a single vineyard Brunello and a Riserva which is produced in small quantities only in exceptional vintages.
Everything the Cortonesi Family bottles is produced from 100% from Sangiovese Grosso. I’ve been drinking these wines over a number of years now and I continue to be impressed each time I have the opportunity to sample one of their offerings.
The Poggiarelli Brunello is a single vineyard selection. It’s been part of the Cortonesi portfolio since the 1998 vintage. Aging took place over 12 months in 5 hectoliter French oak barrelsfollowed by 24 months in large Slovenian oak casks. A mere 334 cases were produced in the 2013 vintage
Black cherry and raspberry aromas lead the charge here. Those characteristics are in play on the palate too along with a treasure trove of spices. Leather, earth, cinnamon and clove drive the massive and prodigiously long finish. Big, gripping tannins and firm acid provide ample structure. Here’s a Brunello that is absolutely age-worthy. My recommendation is to lay the 2013 Poggiarelli down for a decade and drink it in the 6-8 years after that. If you are planning to drink it soon, decant it for at least 2 hours and pair it with hearty cuisine. A t-bone, Rack of lamb, and grilled beef sausages all come to mind.
The Cortonesi Family continues to turn out impressive wines in Montalcino. Give them a shot, I assure you the results will be delicious. You can order it anytime through Family Wineries Direct.
Check out the video below where I taste it.