Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino 2012

Professional Ratings

• 96 James Suckling
  I like the ripe-fruit and smoked-meat aromas to this. Subtle and complex. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a long and chewy finish. Needs time to soften. Very structured for the vintage. Better in 2020.
• 94 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
  Valdicava represents its own school within the greater Brunello philosophy. This estate (under proprietor Vincenzo Abbruzzese) crafts contemporary and modern wines with noticeable density and ever-present aromatic intensity. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino reveals a dark and inky appearance with bright ruby highlights that break through the background darkness with brilliance. The nose is generous and robust with dark cherry fruit, plum, Indian spice, mocha and espresso bean. These elements are stitched together with seamless transitions. Despite that grand approach, Sangiovese's prickly and often nervous personality shines through nonetheless. The variety adds delicate berry nuances and bright acidity that give this wine profound depth. This is a very well-made wine that promises a long aging future.
• 93 Wine Spectator
  A rich, dense and muscular version, this reveals plum, black cherry, leather and tobacco notes, with a hint of chocolate on the finish. The assertive tannins need time, but already, with air, this is pulling together. Best from 2021 through 2035.
• 92 Wine Enthusiast
  Earthy aromas of truffle, leather, tilled soil, Mediterranean herb and a hint of cured meat slowly take shape in the glass. The aromas carry over to the concentrated palate along with steeped plum, fleshy wild cherry, licorice, tobacco and a hint of game. Firm tannins and fresh acidity provide an age-worthy framework. Drink 2020–2027.