Gaja 2013 Brunello di Montalcino, Pieve Santa Restituta

Angelo Gaja bought a controlling interest in the Pieve Santa Restituta in 1994. All his energy and expertise have been brought to bear on this magnificent estate with restoration of the namesake 4th century church and construction of the state of the art cellars completed in 2005.

The impressive, modern winery is surrounded by 40 acres of beautiful vineyards all at some 1100 feet above sea level with a gentle south west exposure. Pieve Santa Restituta's Brunello di Montalcino is produced from a selection of estate-grown grapes from the four non-contiguous vineyards with vines averaging 25 years of age.

2013 was an outstanding vintage in Montalcino. Each vineyard parcel underwent separate fermentation and maceration in stainless steel tanks for approximately three weeks. Afterwards the wines were blended together prior to aging in casks. Full bodied and rich with true expression of Sangiovese.

2013 was a celebrated vintage for Brunello and this wine scored 92 points from Antonio Galloni who said "Full ruby-red. Aromas of red cherry, blackberry, licorice and minerals. Juicy and tightly wound but pliant, offering smooth black and red fruit flavors complicated by licorice and fresh herbs. Classically dry and long, finishing with supple but firm tannins and a bright floral element. It’s hard to argue with this entry-level Brunello’s quality. I find it to be slightly underrated in many vintages, as all the attention is focused on Gaja’s two top Brunellos, the Rennina and the Sugarille. But this non-cru Brunello offers lots of high-quality wine for the price."