Winery: Abbadia Ardenga

Vintage: 2005

Wine Name/Vineyard: Brunello Di Montalcino 

Wine Category: Brunello Di Montalcino

Grape blend: 100% Sangiovese

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Montalcino

State or country: Italy

Price: $45.00

ABV: N/A

Cases produced: N/A

The Barrel Cellar Score:  91 points

Review date: August 29, 2021

About the Winemaker: Abbadia Ardenga winery is beautiful. It’s a place where the Tuscan sun shines brightly upon breathtaking hills, and the history is both humbling and awe inspiring. The property sits on a road long traveled by merchants, armies, and countless other travelers on their way to or from Rome. The deep and pure well on the land – an invaluable resource for the winery, was undoubtably also an asset for the many previous owners of the land, which include many influential people, such as the family of Pope Pius II.

I have been fortunate enough to visit the winery on two separate occasions. If ever in the area, you will not regret visiting. It’s a wonderland of character, fantastic wine, and Tuscan charm.

Color:  Scarlett with a hint of rust

Nose: Strawberry, cherry, honeysuckle, and oak.  

Taste: Red berry, floral notes, and bright cherry.

Assessment: Had I ventured upon this wine in a blind tasting, I would have considered that it might be french. It’s reserved, graceful, and and silky smooth. It’s balanced fantastically with soft tannins and complementary fruit notes. The typical Tuscan old world notes of heavy oak, and plentiful tannin, aren’t initially apparent, but it does not have a hint of sweetness either. This is an easy drinker. You could drink a couple of bottles, enjoy every glass, and not get bored with it; it’s a great session wine!

This is a great Tuscan wine that will suit all wine drinkers. The Barrel Cellar gives this Brunello Di Montacino from Abbadia Ardenga 91 points.

Pairing recommendation: Rabbit Fettucine with crushed tomatoes, or a prosciutto and mozzarella panini.