2016 Col D'Orcia Brunello di Montalcino

One of the original estates of Montalcino and now the largest certified organic estate in Tuscany, Col d’Orcia is a leader in Brunello di Montalcino. The estate is known for helping to define and promote one of Italy’s most prestigious wine regions. Tradition, integrity, and sustainability are the pillars of the estate, whose classic style wines are celebrated all over the world. Proudly defined as an ‘organic island,’ Col d’Orcia is committed to maintaining the natural environment in which it operates and has, for many years, employed organic farming practices. 

“It’s Montalcino’s Time to Shine. If I had to think of one way to universally describe the majority of wines from the 2016 vintage, I would offer that they are like a well-muscled black stallion in its prime. They are dark yet radiant, expressive, nearly explosive at times, yet pure, poised, and structured.” ~Eric Guido, Vinous Media

The estate’s name translates to “the hill overlooking the Orcia River,” as its position lays in the undulating hills between the Orcia River and Sant’Angelo in Colle. Here, the southern orientation provides vines with abundant exposure to sunshine. The vineyard soils are comprised of limestone and marl which facilitates natural irrigation. Located at about 1500 feet above sea level, the estate is favorably positioned against Mount Amiata (5,700 feet) which helps shield the property from floods and hail. The climate is typically Mediterranean, with limited rainfall coming in from the Tyrrhenian coast, 21 miles away.              

2016 was not only a great year for wine throughout the whole of Europe but is being called the best vintage ever for Brunello di Montalcino! Now is the time to stock up on 2016 Brunello; these wines will only get more valuable as they continue to ageinto the sensational wines we know they're going to be! Think of this opportunity as an IPO, this is your chance to make a sure-fire investment in a wine that will continue to appreciate for the next 25 to 30 years.

100% Sangiovese. On the nose, complex and fresh, with inviting fruit aromas balanced by oak-imparted spices. Well-structured and full-bodied on the palate, with fine tannins that promise great aging capacity; long and impressive finish. An ideal companion to red meat entrées, hearty stews, and assorted cheeses.

Large skeleton soils produce this flawless Brunello. On the nose, officinal aromas of pepper leaf and balsamic notes of alcohol-infused cherries. Salty tannins in the mouth that is taut as well as juicy. Long persistence ~99+ Luca Gardini

Dusty earth gives way to dried roses, incense, hints of cedar, sage, currants, and black cherries in a display that makes the 2016 Col d'Orcia Brunello di Montalcino a very special experience. It’s nuanced and perfumed from start to finish, boasting silky textures contrasted by tart berries and minerals, but with sweet tannins that frame the expression perfectly. Its inner sweetness is balanced by bright acids, creating an almost-juicy sensation, right up until the moment you realize that your palate is aching with youthful tension. There’s so much going on and much more to come, making me wonder what the Poggio al Vento might offer in the 2016 vintage. For now, that doesn’t even matter, because the 2015 Col d'Orcia impresses on nearly every level. ~95 Vinous Media

The 2016 Col d’Orcia Brunello offers notes of pine resin, black cherry, and dried strawberry aromatics. The palate is concentrated and compact, with dried tomato leaf bitterness and tobacco. The structure is not shy, with a rich core of fruit, bold tannin up front, and just as much acidity to match. This is a bold wine for the 2016 vintage, packed with sun-kissed warmth. It commands time in the cellar, so drinking is recommended over 2026-2041. ~95 Jeb Dunnuck

An earthy, meaty version, sporting black cherry, plum, raw beef, iron, and bouillon aromas and flavors. The fruit element intensifies on the palate, playing out on a long finish that is balanced and fresh, showing dusty tannins. Best from 2024 through 2043 ~94 Wine Spectator

The Col d'Orcia 2016 Brunello di Montalcino is a widely available wine with an ample production of 240,000 bottles. It is also a landmark wine in Montalcino, although it tends to be very vintage-sensitive, with some releases showing much better than others. In the case of the twofold 2015 and 2016 powerhouse vintages, I like both wines about the same. This cooler vintage shows dark fruit and spice, while there's an extra layer of leather or cigar ash at the back. This wine is made with organic fruit. It displays a mid-weight mouthfeel with tight tannins and lively acidity, the kind that will cut through your favorite steak dinner. ~93 Robert Parker

A very polished, refined red with berry and flower aromas, as well as hints of citrus and rose petals. Medium to full body, fine tannins, and a juicy finish. Lovely polish. From organically grown grapes. Give it a year or two to come around, but already very pretty. ~93 James Suckling

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