The Montosoli Master: Baricci

After my recent discovery of Baricci at the Slow Wine tasting last week, it didn't take me long to acquire some of this nectar for my own personal cellar.  Those that have read my review of the event know that I spoke very highly of the wine.  

After sitting down with a bottle of this Brunello, and casually evaluating it while the snow fell and the short ribs graced the table, I can say that this is the most aromatic 2007 Brunello I have tasted. It's a great example of the vintage in terms of its ripeness, but it also has the freshest structure of any of the 2007's I've had. 

In the glass, the wine is a medium violet to ruby.  If you were to judge by the color, you would think something is amiss. The aroma just absolutely leaps from the glass.  Flowers, mushrooms, dark berry fruit, spice, menthol and fresh herbs like sage and rosemary.  

In the mouth, the wine is wonderfully balanced with sweet ripe red fruits, pipe tobacco, herbs, lively acidity and moderate tannins that are fleshy and delicious. Like others from the vintage, I don't think I'd age the 2007's very long. We've got 2004's and 2006's for the cellar.  But this wine, this vineyard, this estate, is very special indeed.  More vintages and reviews of Baricci to come. For the 2007,  96 points and about $40. 

2007 Baricci Brunello Montosoli

Braised Beef Short Ribs over Yukon Gold Roasted Garlic Mash. Recipe coming next week!