Col D'Orcia Poggio Al Vento Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2007

Col d'Orcia is one of the largest privately owned estates in Montalcino and one of its historic reference points, with a winemaking heritage dating back to the late 19th century. Since 1973 the estate has been owned by the Cinzano family, who have invested heavily in both the vineyards and cellar while remaining committed to traditional Brunello production. Situated on the southern slopes of Montalcino overlooking the Orcia River, the vineyards benefit from one of the appellation's longest growing seasons, with abundant sunshine tempered by cooling breezes from Monte Amiata. The soils are a complex mix of galestro, limestone, marl and clay, producing wines of both richness and elegance. The estate has long practised organic viticulture, placing great emphasis on biodiversity, healthy soils and low yields, while following a traditional, sustainable approach in the cellar with careful extraction and long ageing in large oak casks. The 2007 vintage was warm and generous, producing Brunellos with exceptional ripeness, expressive fruit and remarkable concentration, while retaining the freshness needed for long ageing.

Col d'Orcia Poggio al Vento Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2007 is made from 100% Sangiovese, selected from the estate's finest hillside vineyards and produced only in outstanding vintages. The grapes are hand harvested before fermentation in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by extended maceration to gently extract colour, flavour and refined tannins. The wine is matured for approximately four years in large Slavonian and French oak casks before extended bottle ageing, allowing the components to harmonise while preserving the purity of the fruit and the character of the vineyard. It reveals complex aromas of black cherry, plum, dried rose, tobacco, cedar, leather, balsamic herbs and sweet spice, underpinned by notes of forest floor and mineral earth. The palate is powerful yet beautifully balanced, with finely woven tannins, vibrant acidity and an exceptionally long finish. It pairs wonderfully with roast lamb, Florentine steak, venison, wild boar, truffle dishes and mature Pecorino and Parmesan. Drinking superbly now after careful decanting, it still possesses the structure to evolve gracefully for another 10-15 years. The wine received widespread critical acclaim, including scores up to 97 points, with critics praising its “remarkable balance, depth and classic Brunello character.”