Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2013 (750ML)

96 VM / 96 JS / 96 WE / 95+ WA / 95 DE /  93 WS / 18 JR

Delicately floral, the 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva slowly awakens in the glass, coy at first, with a subtle mix of mint leaf and dried strawberry. Further coaxing brings out a seductive darkening effect, as the fruit evolves to black cherry, complicated by a whiff of incense, sage and spiced cedar. This is a model of purity, with textures of pure silk and polished red berry fruits that flood the palate. A burst of zesty acidity and sour citrus adds tension but also a sense of boundless energy. Fine-grained tannins emerge as the 2013 flexes its structural muscle, leaving a tart cranberry crunchiness and savory herbal tones to resonate. There are still many years, possibly a decade or more, of positive maturity in store for patient collectors.-Eric Guido, Vinous Media

Very intense aromas of ripe dark fruit with plums and cherries, intermingled with aged meat, warm stones and sweet, dried-wood nuances. The concentrated palate has a suave and plush core with tannins building in impressive layers to hold a long, flavorful finish. Drink or hold.-James Suckling

Rose, wild berry, camphor and a whiff of exotic spice float out of the glass along with a hint of new leather. Radiant and loaded with finesse, the taut, elegantly structured palate delivers juicy red cherry, strawberry compote, baking spice and licorice while fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity provide balance and support. Drink 2021–2035. — Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast

Initially closed and shy, the 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva needs a little extra time in the glass before it starts to shine. The wine is made according to a very classic blueprint that prizes delicate primary fruit freshness, fully integrated tannins (nudged forward by Slavonian oak casks) and bright acidity. Fruit for this wine is sourced from 20-year-old vines that deliver the added extract and concentration worthy of a Riserva expression. This wine is impeccably balanced and radiant. It drinks beautifully straight out of the gate, however, it has the natural DNA to assure a graceful aging future. Some 12,000 bottles were made.-Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate

Linear and svelte, the 2013 doesn't have anywhere to hide - but it isn't trying to. It takes time to reveal its full range of dried lavender, tobacco and citrus fragrances. On the palate lovely strawberry, redcurrant and vanilla nuances form the backdrop. Bright acidity and chalky tannins are expertly woven in. A chiselled and fine-tuned beauty, this demonstrates elegance over muscle. Early September rains were followed by a dry northerly wind that helped clean the grapes. At Fuligni, harvest was protracted to ensure ripeness and the estate was satisfied enough with the results to produce a Riserva despite a four-star rating from the consorzio.-Micheala Morris, Decanter

A dense, muscular version, this red boasts cherry, currant, tobacco, iron and wild herb aromas and flavors. Bright and juicy, with fine balance and a refreshing finish. Best from 2022 through 2040. 250 cases imported.-Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator

Mid bricky red. Fragrant, still with notes of tart red fruits and dried cherries and just starting to show some more tertiary notes of leather and balsam. On the palate, superb intensity without any sense of weight or alcohol, though there is a smooth depth to the dry, resolving tannins to balance the tension and freshness in the fruit. Still has a firm grip and still a long way to go but you could drink this now with something substantial. Really persistent.-Julia Harding MW, JancisRobinson