2010 Val Di Suga Brunello di Montalcino, Poggio  Al Granchio

 

The 2010 vintage of Brunello was heralded as possibly the best of the last 100 years. There was an immediate run on the market when the 2010 Brunello's were originally released, consequently we were surprised when we met with the Val di Suga import rep ( Robert Dillon of Palm Bay Imports ) and realized that it was indeed a 2010 single vineyard  Poggio al Granchio  which he had  brought  for our consideration.

 

 

This is a highly layered Brunello. The nose is red fruit filled with brambly aspects and hints of dust. The front palate is brandied cherries which are distinct and infused with spice. The back palate becomes darker with length until you finally realize blueberry flavors have emerged. There is a hint if dust in the back palate which is reminiscent of Inglenook Cask Reserve or other high dollar Rutherford Bench Cabernet. 

We tasted the Val di Suga again last night with steaks, then open 3 hours the flavor profile stayed the same, just bigger, spicier and the tannin layer became very velvety. This wine was excellent with aged cheddar and incredibly sensational with my highly charred t- bone.  While writing this I (Rex) am tasting the final bit left in the bottle, which has been open now for 30 hours. The fruit is still bright and the wine is still highly structured which leads me to believe that Parker is right, this wine will drink well for another 15 years( review below) . Palm Bay gave us special pricing.

$79 per, 5% off 6, 10% off 12
 36 total bottles available.

 

All of the very best, Rex and Michele

-This wine is a normal $80-$90 plus nationally

 

This is austere, with a dense matrix of tannins supporting cherry, tobacco, stone and leather flavors. Stays fresh, featuring a coating of dusty tannins on the finish. Best from 2018-2032.  93 points Robert Parker