Tasting Notes

WA91

The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino is surprisingly dark, rich and concentrated for this house. Violets, black cherries, minerals and licorice are some of the nuances that emerge as the wine sits in the glass. The density and richness are commendable in this vintage, and the wine’s overall balance is outstanding. Though delicious today, the 2005 could use another few years in bottle. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022. Fattoria dei Barbi, one of Montalcino’s historic properties, has come on strong of late. This is another fine set of wines made in a slightly updated traditional style. According to proprietor Stefano Colombini the key to the vintage was harvesting early. A 2005 Brunello, potentially a Riserva, is also aging in the cellar.

WE91

Fattoria dei Barbi’s 2005 Brunello opens with a ripe, saturated ruby color and thick aromas of black cherry, tobacco, leather and a playful touch of exotic spice. The wine needs time to integrate and another three years of cellar aging should do the trick.

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