Antinori, Pian Delle Vigne 2013 Brunello Di Montalcino

Antinori's Pian Delle Vigne is unique single estate in Montalcino. The estate is located 3.5 miles south of Montalcino and takes its name from a historic 19th century railroad located on the property. The estate consists of approximately 165 acres of vines with a predominantly southeastern exposure and altitude up to 660 feet above sea level. The calcareous clay soil is rich in gravel which provides good drainage. For this Brunello yields are kept extremely low with a green harvest in July. Only the healthiest grape bunches are nurtured to full ripeness. Handpicking is followed by de-stemming and a fifteen day temperature controlled fermentation. The wine is aged in traditional large oak casks allowing the Sangiovese full expression.

The Wine Advocate scored this 92 points saying "The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Pian delle Vigne shows a level of increased volume and texture that appears less frequently in its peers. This wine has always marched to its own drumbeat, and this newest release is no exception. A warmer microclimate characterizes the spot where these vineyards are located, and the fruit is opulent, ripe and exuberant as a result. The Antinori house style also comes through, and the wine has a more contemporary or international outlook as a result. What I really want to say is that Pian delle Vigne shows great results in this vintage. The Pian is back."

Wine Spectator scored it 93 saying "This is concentrated and densely structured, offering cherry, plum, chocolate, leather, earth and tobacco flavors. Starts out fluid, turning a bit lean and chewy on the finish, yet stays long, so give this a few years. Best from 2023 through 2037."

Wine Enthusiast Magazine scored this 94 points saying "Alluring scents of sweet pipe tobacco, baking spice, violet and baked plum abound in this fragrant red. Elegantly structured, the bright, polished palate offers Marasca cherry, raspberry compote and licorice framed by well-knit, silky tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it balanced. It's already tempting but the best is yet to come. Drink 2021–2028."