The La Gerla 2012 Brunello di Montalcino reminds me of the vintage that precedes it (although I like this edition better). Like with the 2011 vintage, this estate has done a great job in capturing as much of the primary fruit as possible, given the warm vintage conditions. Dark fruit with black currant and wild blueberry come into focus. Those fruit tones are aged and evolved for sure, but they don't show tired or flat characteristics at this point. Delicate notes of cola, licorice and blue flower add complexity. The tannic presence is reduced and the mouthfeel delivers silkiness and softness instead. La Gerla puts its Brunello annata into large oak casks for three years. This Brunello is ready to drink now.

The cherry, milk chocolate, olive, tobacco and earth flavors are backed by dense tannins. The long finish shows enough fruit and balance for the long term. Best from 2020 through 2035. 3,800 cases made, 950 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add