winemaker's notes:
The Riserva is made in limited quantities, only in the best vintage years, from Sangiovese grapes harvested by hand in the winery's oldest vineyard, I Paganelli. This vineyard is now 36 years old and especially suited to the production of top quality grapes, thanks to the natural features of the soil and the favourable microclimate. The Riserva is aged for 36 months in French Allier oak barrels, and continues to mature for another 12 months in the bottles before it is placed on the market, five years after the harvest. This wine's huge impact begins with the bright ruby red color; it is stylish on the nose with fruity, floral notes enfolded in sweet spice. The flavor is lingering and balanced with a long, seductive finish. A very classy wine which will improve with time.
"Il Poggione produced two superb Brunellos in 2001. Their 2001 Brunello was outstanding and the 2001 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is even better. It is made in a rich, attention-grabbing style. Constantly changing in the glass, it offers an exciting array of dark cherries, violets, tar, tobacco, new leather, earthiness and smoke. This powerful Brunello possesses awesome length and superb harmony. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2026."
Wine Advocate
95 points
"Moderately deep ruby. Perfumed aromas of spicy cherry, licorice and ink are tinged with notes of orange zest, pipe tobacco and menthol, the latter a bit dominating at present. Boasts impressive depth and power, with extremely pure, deep and complex flavors of red cherry, spicy plum and grilled meat that show energy and vibrancy on the palate. The very long finish displays seductive floral tones. This put on considerable weight in the glass, but will need at least several years of bottle aging to shake off its menthol accent and gain more volume. A real iron-fist-in-a-velvet-glove, with extremely fine tannins and uncommon grace."
-International Wine Cellar
95 Points
"Loads of blackberry, licorice and toasty oak on the nose. Full-bodied, round and rich, with wonderful fruit, light vanilla character and a long finish. Excellent, with lots of everything."
Wine Spectator
94 Points