The excellent 2016 vintage spawned many exceptional Brunellos. Few are more interesting or exciting than the flagship wines of Piccolomini, the Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Pianrosso Santa Caterina d’Oro. Made in only the best years, in small amounts and hugely rated across the board, this is an unmissable wine for Brunello collectors.

Riserva Vigna di Pianrosso Santa Caterina d’Oro is a fascinating Brunello. It is taken from the single vineyard of Pianrosso, a special site, with thick galestro soils with ancient marine material that add complexity and minerality to the wines it produces. It is one of Brunello’s most interesting terroirs. The wine is then aged for 36 months in oak to add extra depth and nuance. It is also rare, with only 915 cases made in 2016.

They are worth the effort to seek out as the critics are lining up to praise this excellent 2016. For James Suckling, who rates it at 99 points, it has “a full body with ultra-fine tannins that are long and extremely polished”. The Wine Spectator calls it “Saturated with ripe fruit, this has beautifully integrated acidity and tannins” and awards it 98 points. Monica Larner found it “gorgeous, full stop”. 

Do take a look and let us know if you would like to secure a case or two of this brilliant Brunello.