{"title":"Tuesday 10\/27 Masterclass: La Gerla Brunello Vertical","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"la-gerla-brunello-di-montalcino-docg-2019-tuscany-italy","title":"La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2019 (Tuscany, Italy) - [JD 94] [WA 94] [WE 94] [VM 93] [JS 93] [DM 93] [F 92]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Winery: \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThis small wine estate has established itself as one of the great crus in this territory in the heart of Tuscany, delineated by the Orcia and Ombrone valleys. The estate, formerly owned by the Biondi-Santi family, was purchased by the late Sergio Rossi (formerly at Altesino-Caparzo), and is now run by vineyard manager\/director Alberto Passeri and winemaker Vittorio Fiore. They make five wines, all made entirely from Sangiovese Grosso, the only grape planted on the property. Their first vintage was in 1976, making La Gerla one of the first 35 bottlers of Brunello di Montalcino; these days, there are 280. The winery name comes from the large, old-fashioned, conical baskets that grape-harvesters used to carry on their backs.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColor:\u003c\/strong\u003e Intense ruby verging on garnet.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFavor: \u003c\/strong\u003eFruity, dry, warm, velvety, harmonious, steady body and soul.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePerfume:\u003c\/strong\u003e Intense, ethereal melting into scentdìs of sweet violet and iris, recalling the berries growing in the woods\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eRed meats, preferably wild game; to serve, store sideways at room temperature at least 24 hours beforehand, cork two hours in advance, decant and serve in decanter.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Jeb Dunnuck: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"A lovely mix of floral and herbaceous aromas lift from the 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino, which displays a ruby color and offers notes of wild raspberry, herbes de Provence, wet stones, and licorice. Medium to full-bodied, it’s enticing on the palate, with crunchy fresh acidity, ripe tannins, and a long finish that closes with a quenching saline lift. This vintage offers such wonderful aromatics, and this wine is no exception, with a pure nature all throughout. Drink 2025-2035.” – Audrey Frick (Feb 2024)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Advocate:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The La Gerla 2019 Brunello di Montalcino has spicy, dried fruit with blackcurrant, pinecone, juniper berry and a hint of medicinal herb or camphor ash. The oak comes through clearly in the form of mulled spice or crushed clove. This Brunello is rather streamlined on the mid-palate, and although there is some mild chalkiness to the tannins, they are almost approachable now. Production is 40,000 bottles.\" - Monica Larner (Dec 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Enthusiast:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The nose is heavy with citrus and vanilla, while undertones of clove, damp earth and herbs provide balance. On the palate, cherries and berries lift the sweet notes, still wrapped in vanilla and warm citrus, but grippy tannins keep things in check.\" — Danielle Callegari (Mar 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Vinous Media: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is wild, opening with a zesty burst of spiced orange and cloves before settling on black cherries and ashen stone.  It's creamy and seductive in feel, with a wave of rich red fruits that easily flow across the palate, guided by juicy acidity.  Tension builds through the close as saline minerals minge with angular tannins, leaving a pleasantly bitter sensation and the mouth watering for more.  While some patience will be required, I expect the 2019 to over-deliver after only a few years of cellaring\" – Eric Guido (Dec 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - James Suckling: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Compact and tense young red with lots of dark fruit and violets, as well as subtly spicy and toasty undertones. Creamy and rich on the palate with balanced acidity. Persistent length with dried-herb flavors at the end. Needs more time to soften. Drink after 2029.” (Sep 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Decanter Magazine: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"La Gerla’s estate Brunello brings together an even proportion of fruit from holdings in the cool northeastern area of Canalicchio with lots from warmer parcels in Montalcino’s southeast. Exhibiting the estate’s signature unami style, the 2019 is appealingly unpretentious yet complex. Restrained aromas of chestnut and grilled, smoky herbs lead to a wild berry compote laced with clove. It flows easily across the palate, carrying tantalising acidity. Fine powdery tannins build up and close off the finish for now. Give this another year in bottle.\" - Michaela Morris (Nov 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Falstaff:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Brilliant ruby red with garnet reflections. Elegant bouquet of sweet cherries, undergrowth, fresh mushrooms, plus some tobacco and saddle leather. Incredibly soft on notion, with young but fine tannins, precise fruit, long.\" (Oct 2024)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"BREAKTHRU","offers":[{"title":"750 ml","offer_id":51637368357229,"sku":"","price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/products\/LAGERLABRUNELLODIMONTALCINODOCG2015.png?v=1624737701"},{"product_id":"la-gerla-brunello-di-montalcino-docg-2020-tuscany-italy-twi-91","title":"La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2020 (Tuscany, Italy) - [KO 95] [WA 94] [JD 93+] [F 93] [VM 92] [JS 92] [DM 92]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Winery: \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThis small wine estate has established itself as one of the great crus in this territory in the heart of Tuscany, delineated by the Orcia and Ombrone valleys. The estate, formerly owned by the Biondi-Santi family, was purchased by the late Sergio Rossi (formerly at Altesino-Caparzo), and is now run by vineyard manager\/director Alberto Passeri and winemaker Vittorio Fiore. They make five wines, all made entirely from Sangiovese Grosso, the only grape planted on the property. Their first vintage was in 1976, making La Gerla one of the first 35 bottlers of Brunello di Montalcino; these days, there are 280. The winery name comes from the large, old-fashioned, conical baskets that grape-harvesters used to carry on their backs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Land was purchased by Sergio Rossi in 1976 and is now managed by Rossi's\u003cbr\u003ewife, Donatella Monforte.\u003cbr\u003e• The property extends over a total of 11.5ha and is complemented with\u003cbr\u003emodern cellars equipped with the latest technological advancements,\u003cbr\u003ehowever their Brunello is aged traditionally in Slavonian oak barrels (50 and\u003cbr\u003e100hl).\u003cbr\u003e• Exclusively Sangiovese Grosso (Brunello)\u003cbr\u003e• All grapes are hand-harvested, hand-selected, and hand-sorted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIntense, ethereal aromas melting into scents of sweet violet and iris, with hints of spices such as tobacco, cinnamon and leather. The taste is soft, warm and velvety, harmonic, rich in fruits and persistent in the mouth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eRed meats, preferably wild game; to serve, store sideways at room temperature at least 24 hours beforehand, cork two hours in advance, decant and serve in decanter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e95 Points - Kerin O'Keefe:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Eucalyptus, juniper berry, blue flower and dark spice are just some of the aromas you’ll find on the fragrant 2020 Brunello from La Gerla. Radiant and loaded with elegance, the savory palate delivers ripe Morello cherry, succulent strawberry, blood orange, licorice and a hint of mocha accompanied by taut, refined tannins. Drink 2028–2035.\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Advocate:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“In the bottle with the white label, the La Gerla 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is a softly\u003cbr\u003etextured expression with dark berry fruit, dried cherry and toasted spice. All the typical Brunello elements are there, yet this vintages manages a softer approach with balance and silky tannins. As the wine opens in the glass, there is a moment of blue flower or iris. This vintage offers pleasure and accessibility.” – Monica Larner (Nov 2024)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93+ Points - Jeb Dunnuck:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Pouring a deep and youthful red color, the 2020 Brunello Di Montalcino is boisterous and fruity on the nose, with notes of grenadine, candied violets, pine, and hints of blue fruits shining through. Medium to full-bodied, it has good focus through the palate, with mouthwatering freshness in its notes of salty earth, also revealing ripe, angular tannins and. A very appealing Brunello with wonderful, refreshing structure, it may be even better than I\u0026amp;#39;m giving credit it for from this early tasting. It\u0026amp;#39;s going to drink well over the coming 12-15 years.” (Jan 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Falstaff:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Gently shimmering garnet red colour. Beguiling bouquet of pickled blueberry, forest floor, leather and grilled mushrooms. Polished on the palate, with great fruit sweetness, on tightly woven tannins and supporting acidity, harmonious and very round, right onto the long finish.\" (Oct 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Vinous Media:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is hauntingly dark, combining tobacco and wilted violets with brown spice and black cherries to form its richly inviting bouquet. It\u0026amp;#39;s soothingly round and racy in style with vibrant acidity and ripe wild berry fruits that slowly saturate toward the close. Hints of sour citrus enliven the senses even as fine tannins settle in, while the 2020 finishes long and spicy but only lightly structured.” – Eric Guido (Nov 2024)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Decanter Magazine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Founded by Sergio Rossi in 1976, La Gerla has grown beyond its original holdings on the northern slope of Montalcino to include vineyards in the region’s southeast. The estate Brunello blends the two areas for a sweet yet savoury expression and it is attractively scented with wild berries, mint and a hint of leather. Mature yet vibrant fruit amply graces the palate. The surprisingly grippy tannins need a bit more time to integrate but they should grant a solid decade of endurance.\" - Michaela Morris (Nov 2024)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“A classic spicy Brunello focused on licorice, smoke and woodland aromas. The fruit character is a pallet of raspberries, pomegranates and black cherries. The attack is tense and firm, with chalky tannins and a medium body. It’s youthful and extracted, a bit austere in the clean, refreshing finish. Drinkable now, but best from 2026.” (Dec 2024)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"BREAKTHRU","offers":[{"title":"750 ml","offer_id":51863116382573,"sku":"","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/products\/LAGERLABRUNELLODIMONTALCINODOCG2015.png?v=1624737701"},{"product_id":"la-gerla-brunello-di-montalcino-docg-2021-tuscany-italy-js-93","title":"La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2021 (Tuscany, Italy) - [KO 96] [WA 95] [JD 95] [F 95] [VM 93] [JS 93]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Winery: \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThis small wine estate has established itself as one of the great crus in this territory in the heart of Tuscany, delineated by the Orcia and Ombrone valleys. The estate, formerly owned by the Biondi-Santi family, was purchased by the late Sergio Rossi (formerly at Altesino-Caparzo), and is now run by vineyard manager\/director Alberto Passeri and winemaker Vittorio Fiore. They make five wines, all made entirely from Sangiovese Grosso, the only grape planted on the property. Their first vintage was in 1976, making La Gerla one of the first 35 bottlers of Brunello di Montalcino; these days, there are 280. The winery name comes from the large, old-fashioned, conical baskets that grape-harvesters used to carry on their backs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Land was purchased by Sergio Rossi in 1976 and is now managed by Rossi's\u003cbr\u003ewife, Donatella Monforte.\u003cbr\u003e• The property extends over a total of 11.5ha and is complemented with\u003cbr\u003emodern cellars equipped with the latest technological advancements,\u003cbr\u003ehowever their Brunello is aged traditionally in Slavonian oak barrels (50 and\u003cbr\u003e100hl).\u003cbr\u003e• Exclusively Sangiovese Grosso (Brunello)\u003cbr\u003e• All grapes are hand-harvested, hand-selected, and hand-sorted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBrunello La Gerla is known and valued for its special elegance and pleasant aromas; extremely aromatic, soft and velvety to taste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eRed meats, preferably wild game; to serve, store sideways at room temperature at least 24 hours beforehand, cork two hours in advance, decant and serve in decanter.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e96 Points - Kerin O'Keefe:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Ripe woodland berry, blue flower, botanical herb, and eucalyptus aromas lift out of the glass on the classy La Gerla 2021 Brunello. Linear, structured and loaded with finesse, the palate offers succulent red cherry, wild strawberry, star anise and crushed thyme alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. Bright acidity keeps it energized and balanced. Be patient and give it time to fully develop. Drink 2031–2041.\" (Nov 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe bright red 2021 Brunello Di Montalcino jumps from the glass with perfumed notes of preserved strawberries, pomegranate, fresh leather, sweet Mediterranean herbs, and wildflowers. The palate is medium-bodied, with brisk acidity, fine tannins, and a gently tapering finish. It’s a lovely wine all around and should drink well for another 15 or so years.\" - Audrey Frick (Feb 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Falstaff:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRich, shiny ruby, very intense. Very appealing nose, with inspiring notes of dark cherry, plum and dark tobacco, with blood orange in the background. Full-bodied and mouth-filling on the palate, opens up with multi-layered tannins, rich and profound, very long finish.\" (Mar 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e95 Points - Wine Advocate:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBalancing aromatic brightness with medium textural concentration, the La Gerla 2021 Brunello di Montalcino delivers lively notes of tart cherry and grenadine followed by light spice and grilled herbs. A classical Sangiovese profile anchors the wine, carried by bright acidity and a mineral thread that adds focus. Vineyards are located in various spots across the northeast and southeast quadrants of the appellation, contributing both freshness and structural balance. Production totals 30,000 bottles.\" - Monica Larner (Jan 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Vinous Media:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The 2021 Brunello di Montalcino opens with mentholated freshness, as minty herbs mix with a whiff of white pepper, olive brine and wild strawberries. It is soft and soothing on the palate, with a subtle citrus infusion to its ripe wild berry fruits, as rosy inner florals cascade throughout. The hulking structure is revealed on the finish, as nuances of dark chocolate mix with spiced orange and clove over a bed of fine-grained tannins.\" - Eric Guido (Nov 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Smoky and toasty wine, full of spices, restrained black cherries, earl-grey and bark. Medium-bodied, it’s almost sour and chewy on the palate, due to the brilliant acidity and firm, velvety tannins. Tight finish. Best after 2028.” (Dec 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"BREAKTHRU","offers":[{"title":"750 ml","offer_id":52899645718893,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/etqlxpgchhytqkjnzjun.jpg?v=1768856528"},{"product_id":"la-gerla-brunello-di-montalcino-la-pieve-docg-2021-tuscany-italy-ko-100","title":"La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino La Pieve DOCG 2021 (Tuscany, Italy) - [KO 100, #1 Top 100 of '25] [F 97] [WS 95] [WA 94] [VM 94] [JS 94] [DM 93]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Winery: \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThis small wine estate has established itself as one of the great crus in this territory in the heart of Tuscany, delineated by the Orcia and Ombrone valleys. The estate, formerly owned by the Biondi-Santi family, was purchased by the late Sergio Rossi (formerly at Altesino-Caparzo), and is now run by vineyard manager\/director Alberto Passeri and winemaker Vittorio Fiore. They make five wines, all made entirely from Sangiovese Grosso, the only grape planted on the property. Their first vintage was in 1976, making La Gerla one of the first 35 bottlers of Brunello di Montalcino; these days, there are 280. The winery name comes from the large, old-fashioned, conical baskets that grape-harvesters used to carry on their backs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Land was purchased by Sergio Rossi in 1976 and is now managed by Rossi's\u003cbr\u003ewife, Donatella Monforte.\u003cbr\u003e• The property extends over a total of 11.5ha and is complemented with\u003cbr\u003emodern cellars equipped with the latest technological advancements,\u003cbr\u003ehowever their Brunello is aged traditionally in Slavonian oak barrels (50 and\u003cbr\u003e100hl).\u003cbr\u003e• Exclusively Sangiovese Grosso (Brunello)\u003cbr\u003e• All grapes are hand-harvested, hand-selected, and hand-sorted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e100 Points, #1 Top Wines of 2025 - Kerin O'Keefe:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The Brunello’s from storied estate La Gerla just keep getting better every year and the 2021 La Pieve is utterly breathtaking, with gorgeous aromas of violet, eucalyptus, dark spice, new leather, cedar, and forest berry. Showing elegance, intensity and restraint, the delicious palate delivers layers of wild raspberry, ripe cherry, star anise and mentholated notes alongside tightly woven, velvety tannins. Bright acidity provides impeccable balance and energy. This is undoubtedly one of the wines of the vintage. Drink 2021–2046.\" (Nov 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Falstaff:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Intense, sparkling ruby with a slight garnet rim. Opens on the palate with notes of graphite and cedar, then lots of dark cherry, beautiful blackberry. Juicy and firm on the palate, shows very well-integrated tannins, multi-layered and salty, with a fine melting finish.\" (Mar 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Spectator:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Bright and well-delineated, this red exudes cherry, strawberry, currant and mineral flavors. An intense and resonant version, picking up Mediterranean scrub and white pepper accents. Firmly structured and complex, this persists on the expansive aftertaste. Best from 2028 through 2045. 537 cases made, 250 cases imported.\" - Bruce Sanderson (Jun 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Advocate:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"More structured and concentrated than the village bottling, the La Gerla 2021 Brunello di Montalcino La Pieve leans toward blue and purple-toned fruit, with dry, austere spice and toast shaping a savory, authoritative profile. Notes of cured tobacco emerge on the palate, reinforcing the wine’s suitability for richer food pairings such as beef or lamb. The fruit comes from a 1.5-hectare vineyard in the southeast quadrant near Castelnuovo dell’Abate, and the wine is aged for 36 months in large Slavonian oak casks. Production is limited to 6,450 bottles.\" - Monica Larner (Jan 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Vinous Media:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The 2021 Brunello di Montalcino La Pieve is delicate in its youthful state, with nuances of spiced orange, mint and pine shavings wafting up from the glass. More showy on the palate, like liquid velvet, it caresses the senses with masses of ripe red and black fruits underscored by tactile mineral tones. Long and perfumed, the 2021 leaves a mentholated freshness and crunchy sensation as fine tannins saturate the senses.\" - Eric Guido (Nov 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"A smoky wine with aromas of oak bark, red cherries, fresh raspberries and sweet violets. Full-bodied, it shows ripe, velvety tannins, refreshing acidity, tension and a tight-knit structure. Licorice aftertaste. Drinkable now, but best from 2028.\" (Dec 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Decanter Magazine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"While La Gerla’s classic Brunello unifies holdings on Montalcino’s northern slope with those in the southeast, La Pieve hails from a single vineyard in the latter. Sweet spices and cured leather accent wild berries. This is substantial in both mature dark fruit and steely structure. Still rather austere, the tannins provide plenty of tension and chew. Savoury intrigue of irony and rust pulsates throughout, and dusty grilled herbs show up on the dry finish.\" - Michaela Morris (Nov 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"BREAKTHRU","offers":[{"title":"750 ml","offer_id":52899660956013,"sku":null,"price":105.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/6ae84e5-0-0.png?v=1767991559"},{"product_id":"la-gerla-brunello-di-montalcino-docg-2019-1-5l-tuscany-italy-jd-94-vm-93-js-93-dm-93-copy","title":"La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2019 1.5L (Tuscany, Italy) - [JD 94] [WA 94] [WE 94] [VM 93] [JS 93] [DM 93] [F 92]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Winery: \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThis small wine estate has established itself as one of the great crus in this territory in the heart of Tuscany, delineated by the Orcia and Ombrone valleys. The estate, formerly owned by the Biondi-Santi family, was purchased by the late Sergio Rossi (formerly at Altesino-Caparzo), and is now run by vineyard manager\/director Alberto Passeri and winemaker Vittorio Fiore. They make five wines, all made entirely from Sangiovese Grosso, the only grape planted on the property. Their first vintage was in 1976, making La Gerla one of the first 35 bottlers of Brunello di Montalcino; these days, there are 280. The winery name comes from the large, old-fashioned, conical baskets that grape-harvesters used to carry on their backs.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColor:\u003c\/strong\u003e Intense ruby verging on garnet.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFavor: \u003c\/strong\u003eFruity, dry, warm, velvety, harmonious, steady body and soul.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePerfume:\u003c\/strong\u003e Intense, ethereal melting into scentdìs of sweet violet and iris, recalling the berries growing in the woods\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eRed meats, preferably wild game; to serve, store sideways at room temperature at least 24 hours beforehand, cork two hours in advance, decant and serve in decanter.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Jeb Dunnuck: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"A lovely mix of floral and herbaceous aromas lift from the 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino, which displays a ruby color and offers notes of wild raspberry, herbes de Provence, wet stones, and licorice. Medium to full-bodied, it’s enticing on the palate, with crunchy fresh acidity, ripe tannins, and a long finish that closes with a quenching saline lift. This vintage offers such wonderful aromatics, and this wine is no exception, with a pure nature all throughout. Drink 2025-2035.” – Audrey Frick (Feb 2024)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Advocate:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The La Gerla 2019 Brunello di Montalcino has spicy, dried fruit with blackcurrant, pinecone, juniper berry and a hint of medicinal herb or camphor ash. The oak comes through clearly in the form of mulled spice or crushed clove. This Brunello is rather streamlined on the mid-palate, and although there is some mild chalkiness to the tannins, they are almost approachable now. Production is 40,000 bottles.\" - Monica Larner (Dec 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Enthusiast:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The nose is heavy with citrus and vanilla, while undertones of clove, damp earth and herbs provide balance. On the palate, cherries and berries lift the sweet notes, still wrapped in vanilla and warm citrus, but grippy tannins keep things in check.\" — Danielle Callegari (Mar 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Vinous Media: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is wild, opening with a zesty burst of spiced orange and cloves before settling on black cherries and ashen stone.  It's creamy and seductive in feel, with a wave of rich red fruits that easily flow across the palate, guided by juicy acidity.  Tension builds through the close as saline minerals minge with angular tannins, leaving a pleasantly bitter sensation and the mouth watering for more.  While some patience will be required, I expect the 2019 to over-deliver after only a few years of cellaring\" – Eric Guido (Dec 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - James Suckling: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Compact and tense young red with lots of dark fruit and violets, as well as subtly spicy and toasty undertones. Creamy and rich on the palate with balanced acidity. Persistent length with dried-herb flavors at the end. Needs more time to soften. Drink after 2029.” (Sep 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Decanter Magazine: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"La Gerla’s estate Brunello brings together an even proportion of fruit from holdings in the cool northeastern area of Canalicchio with lots from warmer parcels in Montalcino’s southeast. Exhibiting the estate’s signature unami style, the 2019 is appealingly unpretentious yet complex. Restrained aromas of chestnut and grilled, smoky herbs lead to a wild berry compote laced with clove. It flows easily across the palate, carrying tantalising acidity. Fine powdery tannins build up and close off the finish for now. Give this another year in bottle.\" - Michaela Morris (Nov 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Falstaff:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Brilliant ruby red with garnet reflections. Elegant bouquet of sweet cherries, undergrowth, fresh mushrooms, plus some tobacco and saddle leather. Incredibly soft on notion, with young but fine tannins, precise fruit, long.\" (Oct 2024)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"BREAKTHRU","offers":[{"title":"1.5L","offer_id":67703265427821,"sku":null,"price":199.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/products\/LAGERLABRUNELLODIMONTALCINODOCG2015.png?v=1624737701"},{"product_id":"la-gerla-brunello-di-montalcino-la-pieve-docg-2018tuscany-italy","title":"La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino La Pieve DOCG 2018 (Tuscany, Italy) - [WE 96] [JD 94] [VM 94] [F 94] [WS 92] [JS 91]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Winery: \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThis small wine estate has established itself as one of the great crus in this territory in the heart of Tuscany, delineated by the Orcia and Ombrone valleys. The estate, formerly owned by the Biondi-Santi family, was purchased by the late Sergio Rossi (formerly at Altesino-Caparzo), and is now run by vineyard manager\/director Alberto Passeri and winemaker Vittorio Fiore. They make five wines, all made entirely from Sangiovese Grosso, the only grape planted on the property. Their first vintage was in 1976, making La Gerla one of the first 35 bottlers of Brunello di Montalcino; these days, there are 280. The winery name comes from the large, old-fashioned, conical baskets that grape-harvesters used to carry on their backs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Land was purchased by Sergio Rossi in 1976 and is now managed by Rossi's\u003cbr\u003ewife, Donatella Monforte.\u003cbr\u003e• The property extends over a total of 11.5ha and is complemented with\u003cbr\u003emodern cellars equipped with the latest technological advancements,\u003cbr\u003ehowever their Brunello is aged traditionally in Slavonian oak barrels (50 and\u003cbr\u003e100hl).\u003cbr\u003e• Exclusively Sangiovese Grosso (Brunello)\u003cbr\u003e• All grapes are hand-harvested, hand-selected, and hand-sorted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout La Pieve:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLa Pieve comes from the estate's southeast-facing vineyard at 350 meters above sea level near Castelnuovo dell'Abate. The vines grow on slopes between two hills, sheltered from the wind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2018 Vineyard \u0026amp; Winemaking:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMade from 100% Sangiovese Grosso from vines averaging 20 years of age. Grapes are harvested by hand and selected on a sorting table, with yields limited to 50 quintals per hectare. Soft pressing is followed by temperature-controlled fermentation at 30°C and 15 days of maceration. The wine ages for at least 24 months in 50-hectoliter Slavonian oak barrels, followed by eight months in bottle before release. Alcohol: 14.5%.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Wine Enthusiast:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The sanguine, umami nose is a well-laid charcuterie board of carpaccio, Parmesan, dried tomatoes, olives and a cup of pomegranate seeds, with a dusting of oregano and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. The palate turns sweeter and juicier with dried fruit, but the tomatoes and herbs linger through a sophisticated, bitter finish.\" - Danielle Callegari (Dec 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Taking on a darker profile, the 2018 Brunello Di Montalcino La Pieve is lush with warming baking spice, black cherry, anise, and cedar. Full-bodied, with a well-structured balance of ripe tannins and a dark mineral profile, it reveals notes of black raspberry, turned soil, and black licorice. A wonderfully brooding style, it also maintains sweet fruit to balance its savory richness. Drink 2025-2040.\" - Audrey Frick (Mar 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Vinous Media:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Crushed stones and violet pastille blow off to reveal vividly ripe strawberry and blueberry fruit as the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino La Pieve smolders up from the glass. This is silky-smooth and suave, with depths of ripe red and black berries carried across a core of brisk acidity. There is ample depth and length to the finale, along with classic tannins, leaving lavender-tinged plum and hints of cocoa to slowly fade. The 2018 La Pieve is a real charmer. Drinking Window: 2025-2033.\" - Eric Guido (Dec 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Falstaff: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Bright, elegant ruby red. Mint and sugared raspberry on the nose, plus fine undergrowth, cedar and an aftertaste of shortbread. Full-bodied and clear on the palate, with great fruit of oranges, also slightly smoky, polished and long, salty, minimal openness on the aftertaste.\" (Oct 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Wine Spectator:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Deep and savory, this red exhibits black cherry, blackberry, eucalyptus, rosemary, iron and earth flavors. Showing assertive tannins, this finishes with a chewy, compact feel. Best from 2025 through 2042. 583 cases made, 250 cases imported.\" - Bruce Sanderson (Jun 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"This has aromas of cherry stones, plums, nutmeg, cedar and some balsamic. It’s full-bodied with tangy acidity and spicy, fleshy layers of fruit, accompanied by sinewy tannins. A little linear. Chewy finish.\" (Nov 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"BREAKTHRU","offers":[{"title":"750 ml","offer_id":67703326736749,"sku":null,"price":94.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/la-gerla-la-pieve-brunello-2018-bottle.png?v=1792281885"},{"product_id":"la-gerla-rosso-di-montalcino-2023-tuscany-italy","title":"La Gerla Rosso di Montalcino 2023 (Tuscany, Italy) - [VM 92] [JS 91]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Winery: \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThis small wine estate has established itself as one of the great crus in this territory in the heart of Tuscany, delineated by the Orcia and Ombrone valleys. The estate, formerly owned by the Biondi-Santi family, was purchased by the late Sergio Rossi (formerly at Altesino-Caparzo), and is now run by vineyard manager\/director Alberto Passeri and winemaker Vittorio Fiore. They make five wines, all made entirely from Sangiovese Grosso, the only grape planted on the property. Their first vintage was in 1976, making La Gerla one of the first 35 bottlers of Brunello di Montalcino; these days, there are 280. The winery name comes from the large, old-fashioned, conical baskets that grape-harvesters used to carry on their backs.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Wine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLa Gerla's Rosso di Montalcino is made from 100% Sangiovese Grosso. The producer describes it as a fresh, youthful expression of the estate's vineyards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2023 Vineyard \u0026amp; Winemaking:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes come from north-east- and south-east-facing hillside vineyards at 270–320 meters above sea level, with vines averaging 20 years of age. Harvesting is manual in 15-kilogram cases, followed by selection of bunches and berries on sorting tables. Pre-fermentation cold maceration is followed by approximately 15 days on the skins and temperature-controlled fermentation in steel tanks. The wine ages for 10–12 months in large Slavonian oak barrels, with two rackings per year, followed by at least two months in bottle before release. Alcohol: 14%.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer's 2023 Tasting Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIntense ruby red with garnet hues. Citrus, berries, cherry, currant and black cherry aromas lead to a fresh, balanced palate with blueberry and currant notes and a delicate spicy finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe producer recommends pasta, grilled pork and red meat for its Rosso di Montalcino.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Vinous Media:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The 2023 Rosso di Montalcino is dusty in the glass, with dried roses, peppery wild berries and citrus shavings. It's soft-textured, nearly fleshy, with a saline mineral edge and a core of ripe red berries. Nuanced tannins frame the finish and add a chewy texture as this tapers off with excellent length and freshness. Drinking Window: 2027-2031.\" - Eric Guido (Mar 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Ripe strawberries and red plums are complemented by hints of dried herbs and orange peel on the nose. The medium-bodied palate is smooth and juicy, featuring gentle grip, a dusting of texture and a pure, red-fruited finish.\" - Andrii Stetsiuk (Jul 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"BREAKTHRU","offers":[{"title":"750 ml","offer_id":67703438705005,"sku":null,"price":32.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/la-gerla-rosso-di-montalcino-bottle.jpg?v=1792181030"}],"url":"https:\/\/artisan.wine\/collections\/tuesday-10-27-masterclass-la-gerla-brunello-vertical.oembed","provider":"Artisan W\u0026S","version":"1.0","type":"link"}