Le Macioche 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Cotarella 750ml

Tasted as un unfinished release, the Le Macioche 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Cotarella shows poise and character, opening to bright cherry fruit, menthol or balsamic herb, mineral and soft earthy tones. Next year's release, the 2017 vintage, will represent the first wine entirely made by the Cotarella family since they purchased this little bijou estate in Montalcino. The 2015 vintage was bottled by them, but winemaking was followed by the previous owners, and the 2014 vintage was not made at all. Aged in large oak casks this is a classic expression, streamlined in places and more generous in others, making for balanced overall results. 

Score: 94 points -- Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate, 2020