Uccelliera - Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2004

Uccelliera - Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2004 (93 TSW)

Andrea Cortonesi has been the owner of Uccelliera (aviary) since 1986. One of my favorite Brunello winemakers from Montalcino. He has developed his methods to make the most beautiful Brunello wines. He can make wines, full of passion and love and with an eye for the smallest details.

The Uccelliera estate was at once part of neighboring Ciacci Piccolomini until 1986, when winemaker Andrea Cortonesi purchased it from his friends and former employers. After refining his trade as cellar master for Ciacci, Andrea ventured out on his own with the formation of Uccelliera. His first vintage was 1991 with the production of 500 bottles! Tucked away in the southeast corner of the appellation in Castelnuovo dell’Abate, the soil here is loose and stony which when coupled with a warm microclimate gives the wines of Uccelliera a rich and ripe expression, vintage after vintage.

Two hectares adjacent to Ciacci’s famous ‘Pianrosso’ vineyard were recently added to this boutique estate, bringing the total to a mere six hectares. Since 2008, Andrea has also been making Brunello wines for his best friend, who has his vineyard in another part of montalcino. These are marketed under the Voliero label.

About the wine:

The riserva will only be produced in vintages with exceptional climatic conditions obtained from grapes selected from the oldest vineyards. Aging from 36 to 42 months in Slavic and French oak barrels.

My tasting notes:

In the glass intense dark ruby red color.
In the medium++ nose aromas of ripe dark plums, blackberries with hints of cassis, tobacco, spices, mushrooms, barrique and earthy hints.
On the palate dry, medium++ bodied, round in the mouth with excellent texture. Vibrant acidity and nice tannins. Flavours are a recall of the nose. Nice and persistent aftertaste.

Will be great with beef, lamb, game (deer, game), poultry or just sipping at the fireplace.