Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2016 La Fiorita

Professional reviews

Robert Parker (93)

La Fiorita's 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva leaves a lasting impression that is due to the purity and the depth of aromas in part but is also due to the very high 15% alcohol. A little less alcoholic heat would be more conducive to the delicate and lifted aromas of Sangiovese. Fruit for the Riserva comes solely from the Pian Bossolino vineyard. This wine is instead all about brawn and muscle; as a result, you're best off serving it with a creamy dish like steak smothered in mushroom sauce. A mere 3,200 bottles are hitting the market now.

James Suckling (95)

Sweet berries and cherries with orange peel and hints of sandalwood. Medium to full body with firm, integrated tannins and a fresh, vivid finish. Firm tannins, but together and so delicious already. Give this two or three years to come around even more.

BOW (8.50)

Winespectator (95)

This cherry- and raspberry-flavored red is underlined by a saline note, with floral, eucalyptus, thyme and tobacco notes joining the party as everything plays out on the lingering, tightly wound finish. Shows energy and finds balance in the end.

Decanter (94)

A single vineyard expression from Pian Bossolino, La Fiorita’s Riserva was picked on 10 October. It comes across as very ripe in its aromas of wild black cherry and exotically spiced plum. Traces of smoke interject. There is a stony undertow on the mid-palate countering the boisterous mix of red and black fruit. A full-bodied, southern Brunello, this is well-proportioned and elegant in tannins. It finishes delectably sappy. Among the many overhauls this estate has made in the last few years, La Fiorita began working with renowned consultant Maurizio Castelli in 2016.

Vinous (92)

Crushed stone, exotic spices, roses and strawberries create an alluring bouquet as the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva blossoms in the glass. It soothes with silky textures and dark ripe fruits, lifted by bright acidity and minty herbal tones. The tannic structure comes through in the finale, clenching the palate firm with youthful poise, while leaving hints of plum under an air of violet-tinged florals. Though it’s tightly wound, only a few years of cellaring should be necessary to enjoy the 2016 Riserva to its full effect.

Jancis Robinson (17)

Single vineyard Pian Bossolino, an east-facing vineyard at 360 m above sea level.
Lustrous deep ruby. A deep cherry nose with hints of oatmeal. Deep sweet-sour cherry fruit palate that is still a little embryonic. Lots of concentration yet still composed and with lots of crunchy tannins. Quite baroque. A little rich but with lots of juice.