93 Wine Advocate – Val di Suga’s 2010 Brunello di Montalcino is a full-bodied expression with opulent tones of dark fruit, spice, leather, tobacco and licorice. Much of the intensity comes from oak use with pretty layers of cinnamon and nutmeg that add to the overall concentration and density of the wine. Smooth and velvety in the mouth, the wine lasts long and delivers generous fruit flavors that add weight and importance to the finish. The wine adopts a plush and modern style, but it does so impeccably. This may be the best base Brunello ever made by Val di Suga. Val di Suga is owned by the recently rebranded Bertani Domains, an umbrella group for a collecting of Italian wine estates that includes the celebrated Bertani Amarone estate in Valpolicella. I am impressed by the hard work underway at the Montalcino property. Val di Suga is adding new wines and is taking care to select vineyard designate expressions for its line of Riservas. The quality of wines is also greatly improved in both the 2009 and 2010 vintages.
92 James Suckling – A red that builds slowly on the palate delivering subtle and dense fruit and silky tannins. Lots of citrus and berry character. Needs time to come together and soften.