Valdicava Madonna del Piano Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2006

Since 1987 Vincenzo Abbruzzese has been directing the Valdicava winery in the north of the Montalcino area. Martini Bramante, his maternal grandfather, had acquired the estate in 1953 and started Brunello production in 1968. However, wines under their own label were only put on the market from 1977. Before that, a label of the Brunello Consortium with the family name was stuck on the bottles. The first vines were planted more than 50 years ago. Since 1987 Vincenzo, a great horse lover, has been taking care of the winery with great dedication and care. Since about this time, the experienced oenologist Attilio Pagli has also been a consultant for the company’s wine philosophy. The vineyards were subsequently overhauled and the cellars renovated. The investments have paid off: almost every year in the Tenuta Valdicava a very full-bodied and full-bodied Brunello is created, which convinces by its firm structure and a long finish. The 19 hectares of vineyards form an almost closed area on the slopes of the Montosoli hill at an altitude of 300 metres. They are exclusively and not too densely stocked with Sangiovese grosso according to classical specifications and were almost completely designated for Brunello. Mass selection is practised during planting, the grape yields are kept very small. Vincenzo, a true quality fanatic, says he spends every day in his vineyards. The agronomist Andrea Paoletti watches over the natural work in the vineyard. The underground wine cellar, which has been extended in the meantime, is kept in the classic style. It is functionally furnished and does without any fashionable bells and whistles. Equipment, plants and barrels of various sizes and origins are available. The largest barrels are destined for Brunello. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel or concrete tanks and partly in wooden vats. The passion for wine lived in the Tenuta Valdicava and the constant pursuit of plants with an individual character are regularly rewarded by high ratings in the international trade press.