Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino Riserva ‘Madonna del Piano’ 2016

Introduction

Valdicava, located in the prestigious Montalcino region of Tuscany, is renowned for producing some of the finest Brunello wines. Owned and managed by Vincenzo Abbruzzese, the estate is known for its meticulous vineyard practices and dedication to traditional winemaking. The ‘Madonna del Piano’ vineyard, the estate’s first single-vineyard Brunello, is a benchmark for elegance and power, consistently ranking among the finest wines of the region.

Wine Description

The 2016 Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino Riserva ‘Madonna del Piano’ is an outstanding expression of Sangiovese, displaying a deep ruby-red color with garnet reflections. The bouquet is layered and complex, offering aromas of ripe black cherries, cassis, dried violets, fresh leather, licorice, and earthy minerality. On the palate, it is full-bodied and structured, with refined yet firm tannins balanced by vibrant acidity. Notes of dark berries, crushed herbs, and tobacco unfold gracefully, leading to a persistent and elegant finish. This wine has remarkable aging potential, promising further depth and complexity with time in the cellar.

Accolades

• James Suckling: 99 points
• Wine Spectator: 98 points
• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 96+ points
• Vinous: 96 points

Food Pairing

This Brunello pairs exceptionally well with rich and flavorful dishes such as wild boar rag, grilled Florentine steak, or aged Pecorino cheese. These pairings highlight the wines depth and character, creating a truly memorable dining experience.

Vintage Quality

The 2016 vintage in Montalcino is widely regarded as one of the best in recent history, offering wines with exceptional balance, structure, and longevity. Favorable weather conditions allowed for optimal ripening, resulting in a Brunello that is both powerful and refined, showcasing the very best of Valdicava’s winemaking expertise.