2012 Uccelliera Brunello di Montalcino

The 2012 Uccelliera Brunello di Montalcino is an impressive Sangiovese that combines both power and finesse. In the glass, the wine opens with deep, dark hues and a concentrated aroma of blackberry, black cherry, and ripe dark fruit. Subtle notes of spice, tobacco, and balsamic aromas are added, immediately revealing the wine's complexity and elegance.

the Uccelliera winery

Uccelliera is the heart of Castelnuovo dell'Abate, a subzone in the southeast of Montalcino. The winery is led by Andrea Cortonesi, known for his consistent style and attention to the unique terroir of the vineyards. His goal is to produce a Brunello each year that expresses the character of the subzone and the specific vintage. The vineyards are situated on three levels, from 150 to 350 meters above sea level, and cover a variety of soil types, from clay and marl to calcareous Galestro rocks. This variation gives the wine a rich blend of depth and elegance.

test atmosphere of the 2012

Intense dark fruit dominates the nose, continuing onto the palate. Blackberries, black cherries, and ripe fruit form the foundation, upon which a refined spiciness and subtle tobacco notes develop. The texture is concentrated and juicy, with a beautiful balance between tannins and fruit. Despite its power and concentration, the wine feels elegant and harmonious, a hallmark of Andrea Cortonesi's signature. The Wine Advocate awarded this vintage an RP 96, praising the wine for its consistency and exceptional Sangiovese expression.

terroir and context

The terroir of Castelnuovo dell'Abate plays a crucial role. The lower vineyards, at 150 meters, have heavier clay and marl soils, which give the wine dark, concentrated notes. The mid-level vineyards, at 250 meters, contain a mix of clay and sand with chalky minerals, contributing elegance and aromatic complexity. The higher plots, at 350 meters, yield fruit with refined minerality and a subtle floral note. By combining these plots, Andrea Cortonesi creates a Brunello with a balanced structure and deep aromatic layers.

vinification

The grapes are hand-picked and selected for optimal ripeness. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures to preserve freshness and fruit expression. Aging takes place for 36 months in large Slavonian oak barrels, followed by further bottle aging. This gives the wine a complex structure, seamlessly blending power and finesse. Each layer of the terroir adds specific characteristics, making the 2012 Uccelliera a nuanced and elegant Brunello.

maturation and storage potential

This Brunello is ready to drink now, but will continue to develop over the coming decades. The combination of concentrated fruit, firm yet elegant tannins, and fresh acidity ensures longevity. As a natural product, bottle development can vary, but with optimal storage, the 2012 Uccelliera can mature beautifully, deepening the fruit and developing secondary aromas.

wine and food pairings

The 2012 Uccelliera beckons with dishes that complement its depth and elegance. Think roasted red meat, game dishes, stews, or rich pasta dishes with tomato and herbs. Mature hard cheeses also pair perfectly with its concentrated tannins and aromatic complexity. This wine is suited to a special meal or special occasion, with every sip offering an expression of Montalcino and Andrea Cortonesi's vision.

Would you like to order Uccelliera Brunello online?

At Grandcruwijnen, the 2012 Uccelliera Brunello di Montalcino is carefully stored in a climate-controlled warehouse, ensuring it continues to age at optimal temperature and humidity. You can order the wine online or pick it up in Dordrecht, where you'll immediately benefit from the advantages. This way, you'll acquire a Brunello that is already impressive and will continue to unfold its complexity in the coming decades.