Canalicchio di Sopra Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG 2012 [5.0L]
(Tuscany, Italy) - [WS 96] [WA 95] [WE 95] [DM 95] [JS 94]

Notes from the Winemaker:
Produced only for great vintages and in limited quantities from the oldest vineyards on the estate, it represents the flagship of quality on our estate: an expression of the concepts which we hold most dear at Canalicchio di Sopra - Elegance, Terroir, Depth. At least 80% of the grapes come from a single vineyard: Vigna Vecchia Mercatale.

Ratings & Reviews

96 Points - Wine Spectator:
"A ripe, macerated version, displaying plum, cherry, tobacco, earth and spice flavors. A beam of lively acidity in the middle elevates this. Ends with elegance, supporting tannins and fine length. Best from 2022 through 2036. 600 cases made, 200 cases imported." - BS  (Jun 30, 2018)

95 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:
"The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a beautifully saturated expression, with gorgeous density and presence. The bouquet is carefully considered in terms of its power and intensity (remember, this was a hot and dry vintage, and ripening was accelerated as a result). It shows lots of varietal character and definition without ever going overboard or feeling too soft or ripe. In fact, this Riserva is surprisingly tonic and firm deep down. It sweeps over the palate with sweet, plush and softly velvety waves of fruity flavors." - Monica Larner (28th Feb 2018)

95 Points - Wine Enthusiast:
"Underbrush, tobacco, new leather and chopped herb aromas unfold in the glass. Full bodied and tightly wound, the palate delivers Marasca cherry, pomegranate, licorice and orange zest framed in taut fine-grained tannins. Give this several more years to come around then drink or hold for even more complexity. Drink from 2022 through 2032." - Kerin O'Keefe (5/1/2018)

95 Points - Decanter Magazine:
"This year's Riserva comes from the estate's two oldest vineyards. The north-facing Vigna Vecchia Mercatale makes up the backbone, with the remaining 20% coming from Vigna Casaccia, which will be bottled as a single vineyard Brunello in the future. There is a wild gaminess on the nose, countered by scents of lavender, tobacco and intense balsamic herbs. On the palate, powdery tannins frame compact fruit and the finish reverberates with a captivating minerality." - Michaela Morris (15 Feb 2018)

94 Points - James Suckling:
"Classically styled wine with a spicy and cedary nose as well as dried flowers and a little orange zest. The palate has a very smoothly rendered tannin bed and bright, succulent flavors of dried dark cherries. Pretty structure and depth. Try from 2022." (21 Jan, 2018)