2010 Pian dell'Orino Rosso di Montalcino

The 2010 Rosso di Montalcino is extraordinary. The sweetest of red cherries, rose petals, sweet spices and flowers come alive in the glass. A wine of total nuance and detail, the 2010 presents a striking level of delineation and pure class. Readers who want to get a sense of what the 2010 vintage holds in store need to check out this utterly magical, spellbinding wine. The Rosso is made mostly from the vineyard on the property itself, with the addition of 15-20% fruit from Pian Bossolini. In top vintages, such as 2010, the Rosso is a great introduction to the wines of this world-class estate.

The 2010 Rosso di Montalcino is extraordinary. The sweetest of red cherries, rose petals, sweet spices and flowers come alive in the glass. A wine of total nuance and detail, the 2010 presents a striking level of delineation and pure class. Readers who want to get a sense of what the 2010 vintage holds in store need to check out this utterly magical, spellbinding wine. The Rosso is made mostly from the vineyard on the property itself, with the addition of 15-20% fruit from Pian Bossolini. In top vintages, such as 2010, the Rosso is a great introduction to the wines of this world-class estate. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2023. It is amazing how far Pian dell’Orino has come in just a few years. Proprietors Jan Erbach and Caroline Pobitzer own what is now one of the very top estates in Montalcino, hands down. Tasting the wines from barrel is an amazing experience equaled by visits in only a handful of top domaines in the world. In this cellar, Sangiovese boasts striking finesse and crystalline purity. Jan Erbach describes 2008 as a difficult year, with rain during the flowering and significant disease pressure. Conditions improved during September and into early October, when the last of the fruit came in. Yields are down 40% across the board. I still think the straight Brunello is the best wine at Pian dell’Orino. Going forward, Pian dell’Orino will no longer issue a Riserva, but when conditions allow will release single-vineyard designates. The fruit is so pure here, I am not sure that extended aging in oak is really necessary. Readers who haven’t discovered Pian dell’Orino are in for a treat. Importer: Polaner Selections, Mt. Kisco, NY; tel. (914) 244-0404