Opening to dark color and deep concentration, the 2009 Brunello di Montalcino Corte Pavone is not one of the estate’s greatest expressions. It delivers a bold and extracted style with hints of powdered chocolate and graham cracker behind luscious cherry fruit and blackberry preserves. The alcohol is listed as 15% and you do feel that power at the back. It is better enjoyed in the near-term. Drink: 2015-2020. Loacker Corte Pavone is an estate I always keep on my radar. Proprietors Hayo and Franz Josef Loacker of Alto Adige winemaking fame have long tried to stir things up in the rather conservative Montalcino. They were among the first to insist on organic-biodynamic farming principles. More recently they flirted with the idea of screw cap closures for Brunello. Needless to say, that attempt was shot down. I am often deeply impressed by the wines of Corte Pavone from one of the higher altitude sites in the denomination with vineyards at 500 meters above sea level. The 2007 and 2006 Brunellos as well as the 2004 Brunello Riserva are spectacular wines. Importer: Maverick Wine Co., www.maverickwine.com

This bright and well-defined red exhibits vivid strawberry and cherry notes that are shaded by tobacco and mineral accents. The tannins are still on the aggressive side, but there's ample fruit and sweetness for balance. Best from 2017 through 2029. 1,500 cases made, 500 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add