LA GERLA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO

ROBERT PARKER: The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino is impressive for its open-knit, expressive bouquet of violets, dark cherries, minerals, menthol and grilled herbs. Medium in body, the wine delivers gorgeous length and a polished, refined finish. It is a strong effort in this vintage. The estate’s Brunello is made from vineyards in Castelnuovo dell’Abate (70%) and Canalicchio (30%). In 2005 La Gerla did not produce their Vigna gli Angeli bottling and opted instead to add that fruit to the regular bottling. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020.

WINE ENTHUSIAST: An extensive aging program has beautifully shaped this Brunello. The wine shows balanced notes of fruit and spice with a smooth, silky texture. The density is not too thick or overdone and the wine would pair with pasta or risotto.

STEPHEN TANZER - INTERNATIONAL WINE CELLAR: Good medium-deep red. Flamboyant aromas of plum, raspberry and truffle are complicated by notes of exotic spices. Then juicy and fresh, with noteworthy precision to the red fruit and mineral flavors. Brisk and concentrated on the finish, displaying noteworthy length for an entry-level wine and polished, smooth tannins. This graceful wine remains light on its feet.