The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a dark and brooding expression with black fruit aromas followed by spice, leather and savory pipe tobacco. This Riserva packs a powerful punch. The palate is treated to cherry liqueur flavors with chocolate-covered cherry and black currant. The mouthfeel is hardy, well structured and long in persistence. The alcohol is recorded at 14.5%, but it feels even stronger than that. Some 4,000 bottles were made.

I am impressed by this wine from Martoccia, a producer I was not previously familiar with. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva opens to black fruit aromas with plum, blackberry and dried cherry. Perhaps the tannins are a bit dry (you feel that on the palate), otherwise this pretty wine has the natural acidity and freshness to pair with grilled sirloin or lamb. Only 5,000 bottles were made.