Brunello Wine Tasting, You Know Those Rad Wines From Italy

Brunello Wine Tasting, You Know Those Rad Wines From Italy – Episode #281

July 25, 2007

Gary Vaynerchuk tastes 4 Brunello’s and lets you know what he thinks, why don’t you let him know what you think of the show today!

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Comments on this episode(147) Leave a comment ›

“Liked the Tony Vincent thing. Very nice….” by phredd
“QOTD: Never had one before….sigh…..” by Adrian aka AnGkEr
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Wines tasted in this episode:

2001 La Gerla Brunello Di MontalcinoBrunello di Montalcino
2001 Pian Cornello Brunello Di MontalcinoBrunello di Montalcino
2001 Collelceto Brunello Di MontalcinoBrunello di Montalcino
2000 Valdicava BrunelloBrunello di Montalcino

Links mentioned in todays episode.

Tony Vincent World

147 Responses

July 25, 2007

CJM
1st
July 25, 2007

TheDumbPhase
Wow, really early today.
July 25, 2007

Shad
Wow…a very early show and a top 5…cool
July 25, 2007

LeatherPalate
Bona Note
July 25, 2007

Ben N.
Top 10 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
July 25, 2007

TommyBoBo of WI
just to irritate the Top 10 haters!!!!!
July 25, 2007

jsh
#7? where is the valdicava 01?
July 25, 2007

SoCal
Damn
Back to back great wine eps!
July 25, 2007

BiggRigg
Top 10!
July 25, 2007

TheDumbPhase
QOTD- ‘97 Friggiali Riserva from a 3 liter at my wedding reception. Not the finest I’ve ever had, but I’ll never forget it. Cheese with Brunello? Got to be a Pecorino Toscana that was made at the same winery as the Brunello you’re drinking with it.
July 25, 2007

TommyBoBo of WI
QOTD: 1997 Antinori Pian delle Vigne pecorino

Bought heavy into the 1997s and have NOT been disappointed,,, only in that I’ll run out some day,,, oh well, there will be the 99s and 01’s!

Ciao!
July 25, 2007

cgf
Great episode. Enthusiasm is still high. I like it.

QOTD: I think my first Brunello experience was my most memorable. I may have had “better” brunellos, but there’s nothing like that first sip of a new wine that really grabs your attention and makes you want to explore more. I had it this past January and it was the Livio Sassetti Brunello di Montalcino Pertimali 1998.

Brunello and cheese? Depends on the style of brunello but I would say parmaggiano-reggiano.
July 25, 2007

Dominick Mack
Great show! First time comment… WOOT!!
July 25, 2007

Ben N.
Great episode, your number one Gary.
QOTD: I have not experience that many Brunello wines yet. But I will soon.
July 25, 2007

Randy
QOD: Never had a Brunello. Guess I now have to go get some.

FWIW, I badged you up the day I saw the badge me up button up there, just never got around to tell you so. Poor me.

Happy Birthday Tony!
July 25, 2007

SoCal
QOTD: I have had some regular ones but I have a few I am sitting on…..I will get back to you
July 25, 2007

BK
Great episode Gary.
Send it to the printer asap, new shirt available in WLTV Schwag.
I can see it now, big pile o poop, surrounded by mutated strawberries with floating pooping babies…MAKE IT HAPPEN.
July 25, 2007

wlburk
good episode. Glad you were enjoying yourself.

QOTD: I have never experienced part 1 or 2 or that QOTD…..yet!
July 25, 2007

Tom T.
QOTD I have not tasted too many Brunellos…..yet. For a cheese pairing my vote is a really sharp provolone or parm-regianno (my fave).
July 25, 2007

Tofferotti
I love brunello, but I love the rossos better. Sometimes I taste a little too much oak in the brunello and I find a little less in the rosso di montalcino. But when I can afford a good brunello, they totally kill it. I like the Fanti and the one we serve where I work. They make an awesome rosso as well. I’ll send you one to taste on the show. It’s very old world and I think we need to see some more old world style wines on the show. I used to love the fruit bomb but as I move farther away from college, I just don’t like jello shots and vodka in coolaid as much.
July 25, 2007

David Canada
Love these wine…..no really, I love Brunello!
QOTD – Gotta be Altesino 2001 , damn delicious!
July 25, 2007

RichAndLiz
Great show. Now I will need to go try some Brunellos so I can answer the question of day. I do have a question for you. I noticed that you have Vayniac Wine Glasses on the show but I can not find them on your on-line store. Do you sell them to the public.
July 25, 2007

msb2ncsu
Brunellos are something I’ve wanted to get into but simply haven’t gotten around to it, due to price and convenience. Heck, I’m really lacking in much Italian wine experience, period.
July 25, 2007

Sonnenuhr
Ciao Gary,
Great show – thanks for taping all these episodes. Got to have the daily fix of WL.
Tonight a little pasta, Sicilian style, with a good bottle of Nero d’Avola.
A dopo

QOD: Lambardi Brunello di Montalcino 1999 – Mama Mia!
July 25, 2007

Shadowbird
QOTD: I haven’t ever had Brunello at all, and it looks to be out of my price range (for now, anyway).
July 25, 2007

Bossman
My daily obligatory comment (completely unrelated to the eps, of course but at least I watch ‘em first):

I’m not at all pleased with you Vayner-whatever. I go through the trouble of juggling my schedule, rescheduling my commitments, booking a flight and a hotel for the sole purpose of dining with you and a few Vayniacs in FLORIDA, in AUGUST and you punk out???? What’s up with that?

I’ll take TampaSteve’s word on it that it’s something huge but if I find out it’s to appear on some public access program or on Home Shopping Network, QVC or something like that well I’ll….. hmmmm…..I swear I’ll….humina, humina humina…….I’ll probably buy whatever you’re hawking no questions asked.

Dunno nothin’ ’bout Brunello other than I think I tasted some at the last NY offline, frankly, the only wine I remember distinctly is the d’Yquem but that’s ’cause I’m a noob (and it was VERY tasty).

Frankly, I’m more disappointed than upset but I have to remind you I have a credit with Delta that has “Bern’s’ written on it just waiting for a date to be claimed.
July 25, 2007

mike s
1997 Antinori Pian delle Vigne – but the ‘99 is a close second, drank the ‘97 1st in italy at the Osteria di Passignano, damn fine wine…
July 25, 2007

David A
Banfi 1997 Poggio alle Mura Brunello di Montalcino. Awesome!
July 25, 2007

gabe
can anyone tell me what the name of the song that was playing at the end

gabe
July 25, 2007

John Blue Label
GV,
Great show. LOVE Brunello.
QOTD Pinino 2001 my favorite so far, but I have not had a lot. Have 3 bottles of the 01 Casanova di Neri which I am saving for a special occ. Maybe when you visit NC (hint hint).
JWB
July 25, 2007

GottaGoDrink
Great show, good juice and nice music TonyV. That’s the way to do it!
July 25, 2007

Greg B.
Yo, Big G! Love the Brunello episode. I need to really dig deep into these great wines. QOTD. I’ll dig deep with great cheese!
July 25, 2007

Jen
Gary, You know I’m totally gonna shout out to WLTV in my Oscar acceptance speech…
QOTD: Sorry… I don’t have enough Brunello experience yet… WHAAAAAHHH!! But now you’ve given me a few good ones to look up!
July 25, 2007

RuralTom
Hola Senor V!

As far as the quote of the day I’ll have to side with Jen, not too much experience with Brunello… Not unlike French Pinots, which I totally adore, Brunello hasn’t been something I’ve gotten into, the starting point is just too much for my wallet!
July 25, 2007

Julie
QOTD: The only Brunello experience was in San Gimignano and that was by pure accident. Dumb luck, indeed. I would love a repeat with some you tried in this episode, but you guys do not ship to MN! We are sorely limited in the “boonies”.

Jumped on the badge bandwagon, have cork’d and showed my visage in facebook but did not make your montage. Still spreading the WLTV word.
July 25, 2007

Serge Laporte
Good song Gary, and good show

Serge
July 25, 2007

yowens
Big ups to Brunello. QOTD: Had probably only 5 or so in my life, Poggio Antico was my fav. Never combo’d with cheese.
July 25, 2007

OrionSlayer
Can’t wait to see Friday’s show after you’ve been “tasting” for 5 shows straight!

QOTD: I haven’t had a brunello yet, but it looks like I should have one that’s 10 years or older and with food.
July 25, 2007

E
I don’t know from Brunello; I don’t know that you can say much for the Brunello selection out in the stix. Never had it with cheese either.
July 25, 2007

italianwinelover
wonderful Brunello show!!!

Nice ending love the song!!!

QOTD: Brunello experience…sad to say very limited. But I have had the La Gerla and found it to be very enjoyable!!! Will have to seek out more 4 sure!
July 25, 2007

John P
Gary, you should do a Pacific NW CKC special. The best wine values for under $15 from Oregon, Washington, and BC. Just a thought.

QOTD: Never had a Brunello, but that is true about many varietals.
July 25, 2007

panoca
Great episode.
Great wines. Great song.
We’ll miss you gary!
July 25, 2007

DirtBag
That song was terrible, it had me running for the razors………. anyways
QOTD: Best – 2001 Fuligni Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva (Montalcino, Italy)
after a 4 hour decant. Best pairing is Saint Agur without a doubt.
July 25, 2007

Robert F
Nice show. Hopefully I’ll be able to afford brunello one of these days…maybe in 4 or 5 years after I finish my endless (8 years) post secondary education. Until then, this CKC is sticking to value wines.

QOTD: I’ll take some spicy aged provolone without brunello anytime.
July 25, 2007

Kdawg
you can never do too many brunello and barolo episodes IMO. I love both varietals so much, too bad they aren’t cheap

QOTD part 1: for me it’s a tie between the 01 Altesino Montosoli and the 99 Casisano-Colombaio Riserva. rarely do I think back to a wine I drank, but those are two that I just froth at the mouth when I think about them

QOTD part due: actually I haven’t had cheese with a brunello, though I probably should add some to the mix next time
July 25, 2007

Paul
Top 50. Hmmm, not bad.

QOTD: Sadly, not enough experience with brunello. I need to be hanging out with TampaSteve (did I really just say that????).
July 25, 2007

Clifford and Darcey
REALLY good show you taped for today GV! Please, though, don’t give up on rating wines. It’s all relative, but there are times when we need that milepost, AND … you have yet to steer us wrong! I steer myself wrong all the time (but still like venturing out, although it tends to waste money), but when YOU like something a lot, so do we!

QOTD: Have yet to have a Brunello, but the 2001 Collelceto Brunello Di Montalcino you tasted sure sounds like the way to go if I buy one soon! Are you SURE we can drink it now (read: I won’t be cellaring it, I’ll be downing it!)?

Thanks for all that you do! Be Well. Keep it up!
July 25, 2007

Taco John
QOTD: Haven’t had a Brunello and am not big into cheese (haven’t really tried fine cheese yet).

Thanks for the little visual shoutout!
July 25, 2007

Micha
Thanks for that Brunello-Episode – the (old) Queen of Tuscany. At least it’s not so easy these days, to seek out the right bottle, while there are totally diffrent styles (and results) to find under the name of Brunello. The “Classic-Style” (Grande Botti), The “Modern Style” (Barrique) and the “Intermediate Style” that goes somewhere in between…
July 25, 2007

caleb
qotd-1997 ciacci, havent had many of these, but had this one at the french laundry so it sticks out in my mind! looks like some great wines today!
July 25, 2007

talksnmaths
Love the Sangiovese! Big ups. I finally got around to signing up on cork’d. Where’s my cash
July 25, 2007

RandyB
Stinkin, poop and all, great episode.

QOTD: 1999 Costello Banfi alla poggio oro. Hard cheeses like a parmigiano or pecorino. It also works with sharp cheddar. I’ve also had success with a good camembert when paired with a more fruit forward Brunello.

Ciao
July 25, 2007

vivaitalia
Wow, I can’t find brunello’s for under $60 anywhere around here. I love that you threw in the $38 ones for those of use who just can’t swing big bucks for wine very often. Believe it or not, I had a 2001 banfi brunello that blew my mind. I’ve had about 15 others that didn’t measure up. Now i’ve had two bottles of the banfi since then and they weren’t nearly as impressive so i’m not sure what to think about that. The poggio antico altero is great also.
July 25, 2007

keelegl
Always love the Brunello. Glad the Valdicava showed well because I have both the 2000 and the 2001.

QOTD: Best so far has to be the Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi, Riserva 1999. Awesome.
July 25, 2007

Joe
1985 Altesion Monosoli – drank last year for my Birthday with Veal Chop and risotto. Experience I won’t forget! I will try to get the WLTV sign in the next commerical I have shot!
Joe
July 25, 2007

GrapeStuff (formerly known as Donald Pipkin)
Thanks for the Brunello review GV – especially those bottles under $50. It’s nice that I have an option for a sub-50 Brunello that I can cellar for a few years.
July 25, 2007

Robert C from Folsom Prison
Okay Gary, you got me laughing hard on that one “Crap, Crap, this smells like crap, there is crap in here!”
I am just happy you did not say it taste like crap. I would have been wondering what childhood experiance you would of relived with us.
Eating fresh asphault bubbles is crazy enough.
Great Show!
July 25, 2007

Freddy
love all the brunello episodes. more than happy to see brunello become a “relative bargain” vs napa cabs, still wish they could be a little cheaper though. i’ve been disappointed with cheeses i’ve had with brunello. had a very memorable 1999 lisini with a meal of veal osso bucco and risotto and 1996 biondi-santi riserva with a great beef carpaccio. very interested to see what cheeses you find that bring the thunder. only request would be to surprise me and find something outside the realm of peccorino or parmiggaino reggiano to satisfy those of us who like to think outside of the box. great episode! thanks.
July 25, 2007

CatScanMan
I have had so few Brunello’s. They are generally out of my “hey, let’s see what this is all about” price range. That Collelceto sounds like a real QPR.

I did have a ‘99 Siro Pacenti about a year ago. I remember the nose was just incredible.
July 25, 2007

mjhch1
I definitely need to do more research on the subject of Brunello, and I definitely agree with the fellow vayniacs… it can be pricey, but I’ll put add it to my 365 list, and my wine budget. I can’t wait to give it a “whirl”!

Really nice tunes…I’d like to hear some more.

Salud
July 25, 2007

Wine Lush
QQTD:1999 Agostina Pieri and the cheese match for Brunello, Pecorino of course. If you can find it though, Grana Padano….yuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuum
July 25, 2007

Steve-o
You ever need an actor for anything, you shoot me an email (AND I’m not SAG yet which means I’m cheap!)

QOTD: Have not had Brunello yet, huge fan of sangiovese, tho, so I’ll be looking into it.
July 25, 2007

amgryger
QOTD: Ok, you got me. I’ve never had brunello.
July 25, 2007

ChefD
what is up with 1st? If you leave a comment that says “1st” it must prove you are cool?*. I do enjoy most of the comments and like to see what people have to say but this race for top 10 with nothing additional to add is like being in 7th grade. CJM you are the KING so please stop, you are numeo uno, #1 whatever you want to be just say something a little more interesting then #1. Please
July 25, 2007

GeneV
Great episode. I agree completely that Brunello is one of the great sources for Old World lovers.

I also love the glass. Every show reminds me of that dynamite SF party.
July 25, 2007

Hans
My wife and I fell in love with Brunello during our trip to Tuscany earlier this year. My favorite so far is the 2001 Conti Costanti Brunello di Montalcino. I also enjoyed very much the 2001 Casanova di Neri (their regular bottling; not the WS Wine of the Year). I brought back a 2001 Valdicava only to find it shattered to pieces in baggage claim, so unfortunately I never got to taste it. I’m excited to try a couple from today’s show.

Thanks.
July 25, 2007

Harley Stan
Gary, great episode. I will have to seek a Brunello out especially under 40 bones.
QOTD- I have not tried Brunello yet, it is on my list of wines to seek out.
July 25, 2007

Scarred1
Gary,

Enjoyed the show, as usual, and dig the Grady Sizemore comment.

QOTD: Not enough experience with Brunellos to make a comment. Guess I have shopping (and drinking) to do!

Grazie ed ciao.
July 25, 2007

Bossman
I almost forgot:

QOTD: Given the “crap” commentary, I’m guessing Frumunda is a better fit than the Toe variety.

Orange you glad I came back to leave the second comment?
July 25, 2007

Bossman
I almost forgot:

QOTD: Given the “crap” commentary, I’m guessing Frumunda is a better fit than the Toe variety.

Orange you glad I came back to leave the second comment?
July 25, 2007

Bossman
….. and the third and fourth?
July 25, 2007

mas
Excellent episode Gary – thanks, love BdM.

QOTD: ‘97 Pieve Santa Restituta (Gaja) Sugarille.
July 25, 2007

Bobinnati
I’ve not had a Brunello before, but it sounds interesting. I had Spanish Priorat wine that has a flavor profile that sounds similar to Brunello. I do tend to like the smoky leather sort of flavors, so I would probably enjoy this. Your comments show how hard it is to be objective about rating wines though. You, an acknowledged expert with more experience than we will ever have, readjusted your opinions throughout the show because you calibrated yourself on the first wine and then were surprised by the relative quality of the succeeding wines. If you have that much difficulty holding a known standard in your memory, imagine how tough it would be for most of us. It’s almost like you’d have to try the same wine several times over the course of a few weeks to form a true opinion of it because your senses would be influenced by the environment on the given day, what you had tasted before the wine, etc.
July 25, 2007

Cam
QOTD: Sadly, I haven’t had the pleasure of trying a Brunello.
July 25, 2007

surf.sf
QOTD: guess I’ll have to go buy a $40 bottle of Brunello! I’ve had it in flights at restaurants but don’t remember any brands. Seriously sounds you had me at leather!
July 25, 2007

John Witherspoon
GOOD show today, definitely want to try some of those wines.

QOTD: Sorry to say, Brunello and Tuscany in general are my weak regions for trying wines, need to beef it up.

J DUB
July 25, 2007

Jon B.
Gary great episode, impregnable, classic!! looking foward to $723.19 on cork’d,friended you up months ago.QOTD have not tried Brunello yet but will soon thanks Gary and WLTV staff for all you do.
July 25, 2007

Tampasteve
I would like to take my $723.19 in 01 Valdicava please
July 25, 2007

Tampasteve
BTW….Tampa LOVES showing up at off-lines with Brunello
July 25, 2007

Jay!
Thanks for all the Italian wines – It’s nice to know that there’s more to them than Macaroni Grill house Chianti! I will definitely be seeking them out more than the trusty cab-sav.

QOTD – does Carlo Rossi come from Brunello?
July 25, 2007

BlueFlyer
Great show. Enjoying lots of back episodes, too.

John
July 25, 2007

Denise
Thanks for the Brunello refresher, Gary! Enoyed the show.

Best,
Denise
July 25, 2007

KW
Love those Brunellos. Only problem,the good ones are a bit pricey for everyday drinking.

Nice ending today with good music.
July 25, 2007

Wino4Life
Soldera 1993 didn’t suck..drank mid 2006…..
1990 Valdicava ‘Madonna del Piano’ probably the best I’ve experienced, drank late in 2006!!!

Biondi Santi 2001 will be off the hook in 5 years time.
Friggiali ‘Donna Olga’ 2001 is also excellent
July 25, 2007

Anthony
Gary,

I loved the Brunello tasting show .I have always been a huge fan of Italian reds , and now thanks to you I have a few more gems to taste .

Thanks again,

Tony
July 25, 2007

cnw
Another great show… with yet another wine I haven’t tried!

cheers!
July 25, 2007

Marc
QOTD: Haven’t had a Brunello yet. The first few Tuscan wines I had I wasn’t very fond of so I wasn’t willing to fork over the money for a Brunello. But I’m definitely wanting to try one sometime.
July 25, 2007

Grapedigger
Looking forward to try my first Brunello soon. Enjoyed the episode.
Cheers
July 25, 2007

GlassRunnethEmpty
QOTD: I haven’t had many Brunellos…have a few cellared, but so far it would be
2001 Fattoria La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino (Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino)
July 25, 2007

wine-ot
Q.o.T.d – I had a wet dream about a brunello (once) and that was as close as I got to popping one…well, time for bed night.
July 25, 2007

VINAIO
Well…… Should we taste some 01 now ? maybe a 96 or a 98 riserva ?

well.. well… well…..
July 25, 2007

JOEinLA
Thanks or a great episode. I really enjoy Brunellos.Valdicava juuuuust seems always priced a bit high but from your review, it sounds like a winner~

QOTD: 99 Casanova di neri at the farm in Montalcino….and some 2000 Pietradoncie thrown in to the tasting for the fun of it…Paired with some hard Pecorino cheese drizzled in olive oil from the farm …in 2004.
July 26, 2007

JOEinLA
..and I have to go along with MAs on the 1999 Sugarille from Gaja. I had that and it ranks right up there too.
July 26, 2007

Dom
Nice Gary, I love Brunello! My favourite so far has to the 01 Fanti. I haven’t had any other vintages other 01. so I am looking forward to that.
July 26, 2007

wildebeest
Alright! Brunello in the SF Vaynerglass!

QOTD: I’ve never had a Brunello, I’m sorry to say. I almost got a glassful at the SF Vaynerparty, but the guy who brought it decided not to open the bottle after all. One of these days, when I’m rolling in cash, I’m sure I’ll end up devoting a good portion of my cellar to Brunello. The flavor profile you outline in all of these is EXACTLY what I like best in a wine.

Hey buddy, look for me on corkd.com, a’ight?
July 26, 2007

TROC
Good show! Tar, Leather, Sour Cherries, surprising the oak monster didnt show up after three years. QOTD: Will try Brunello soon, but does Annette Funicello count.

Hey Johnny C. from Folsom Prison! I now have a mental image of prisoners in their cell drinking Brunello and eating cheese while they’re watching Gary V. on their laptops.
July 26, 2007

First dumbass!
First posters…please read, and comprehend this article. Then read it again.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_posts
July 26, 2007

t_moderne
Gotta like the Brunelli. Nice to see you taste a few i have yet to taste.

Thanks.
QOTD – a 1985 Barone Ricasoli. Enjoyed it at the winer. Delicious.
Try a youthful Brunello and some Pecorino Toscano with Tartuffo (truffles). Heavenly.
July 26, 2007

Robin
QOTD: I’ve only had Brunello at wine tastings, and I can never remember which was the Brunello and which was the Barolo. Italian wines are great.
July 26, 2007

medo
Another thunder show Gary!

QOTD: I’m glad to taste and “still” to have a bottle of the 2001 Valdicava BdM!
July 26, 2007

Tony Vincent World
Gary!!
Thank you so much for the shout out and for comin thru in such amazing style for Tony on his birthday! YOU-DA-BEST! thank you, THANK YOU!! I guess you already know we got him a bottle of Brunello as a b-day surprise! I know he really dug that vid-blog mention, and so did his fans around the world. He is a truly special guy with a huge heart and voice and is much loved by us. For those interested in getting to know him and his music, the song played at the end was ‘A Better Way’ written and sung by Tony, and will be featured on a forthcoming EP!! You can hear this song (and others) by checking out this rock ‘n’ roll wine lover on these official sites:
http://www.tonyvincent.com (official site)
http://www.myspace.com/tonyvincent
http://www.tonyvincentworld.com (official fan site)
http://tvwforum.proboards92.com/index.cgi (fan site forum)

many thanks again G! As Tony would say, YOU ROCK!

Ingrid
(administrator of tonyvincentworld.com)
July 26, 2007

Bill
Hey Gary, I am a total noob but since watching your show I am totally into wines. I bought my first bottle of wine today based on your advice. I went BIG and drove to Wally’s in LA to pick up the Valdicava. OMGOSH! this wine is so GOOD. I wanted to drink the whole thing ASAP but had to wait 5 hourse to take a second drinky drink. The funny thing is that it tasted totally not as good even after such a short time. Anyhoo it was a good first purchase. Thanks for this free resource because together we are changing the wine world!
July 26, 2007

David M Roberts
Gary –

Retroactive praise here – just made it (late) through the “scavenger hunt” you had posted a few days back – Hi-larious stuff! And lots of work no doubt. Had a great time navigating through your ad-hoc web sites.

Seems like it was all motivated by a couple of negative comments, and you obviously took it in stride, but we’re all human, and a barb is a barb.

Keep in mind the majority of us “get it” and truly appreciate the show and the huge effort that goes into it. Thanks for putting so much of yourself out there, and producing a valuable, informative AND FUN show, along with other great features like Cork’d.

Best,

Dave
July 26, 2007

Matty B
QOTD: Never had Brunello, going to go check it out soon…

GARY: nice pic on Cork’d. Nice touch.
July 26, 2007

luvgrapesqeezings
How about doing a show or two where you taste wines without using numerical scores?
QOTD: Brunellos are fun, but are mostly more than I’d like to shell out for a wine. I’m typically happy with Chianti Classico Reservas and Rosso di Montalcinos. However, I’ve enjoyed tasting the 2000 Siro Pacenti (which would very likely improve a lot in the years to come). I’ve also tasted a ‘99 Castenello di Neri which was very delicious. I’ve had a couple of other young brunellos at tastings that had some fantastic flavors & structural elements but were, in my opinion, way too young to drink at the time.
July 26, 2007

luvgrapesqeezings
ooops I meant the ‘99 Cassanova di Neri.
July 26, 2007

Pastore
That song reminds me of The O.C. You know the southern California teenage angst set in the oh so tough surroundings of mansions and yacht clubs? Anyway, loved the show. I definitely need to try these, but the price points keep me away. Any suggestions for anything similar in the $15 – $20 range?
July 26, 2007

NathanN
Brunello shows are great.

QOTD: I have had several but that was before I kept track of what I was drinking. Last one that I had though was a Ciacci Brunello Di Montalcino 2000. It was good but definatly not the best I have had.
July 26, 2007

Dan
Best Brunello I’ve ever had was a 1999 Beato from Il Poggiolo. I am also a huge fan of the 1999 Castelgiocondo from Marchesi di Frescobaldi, but the Beato is simply beautiful. As for cheese, I’ve found that I really enjoy goat cheese with Brunellos as well as a really sharp Greek cheese, Mezithra. Wonderful pairing.
July 26, 2007

WINO
LUV ME SOME BRUNELLO!!!!!

Just came back from 2 weeks in Italy and stayed just outside Montalcino in San Giovanni d’asso. Beautiful and some great wine. Splurged and got a case of wine from Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona which is a winery just down the hill from Montalcino. THeir 2001 is out of this world and I scored 3 of their 2001 Riserva that will chill in the cellar for (hopefully) a long time.
Their Rosso is very good also and their Fabius Syrah is to DIE for. Gary, can you get their stuff in the store? I will buy bunches!!!!!

QOTD- Brunello with some Peccorino Romano from its hometown of Pienza
July 26, 2007

Whiteknight
Hi, Gary. I love the show and I’ve been watching for several months now. Would it be possible to have the name of each wine displayed in the video as you open it? For whatever reason I find it so much easier to remember the names when I see the name in addition to hearing it. I know that the names are available on the website, but that doesn’t help when I’m watching without internet access. Keep up the great work!
July 26, 2007

Jen Loves Wine
Hi there. Great show — charcoal, crap, and stawberry — only on WLTV. We visited Montalcino as a day trip from Florence last Nov. Defnitely want to go back and spend some more time there — so beautiful, peaceful, and brunello-y. I love Brunello with Parm and Pecc. I love Cowgirl Creamery cheese so I’d probably drink just anything with that… Have a safe trip — thanks for recording all of these shows before you left. Take care.
July 26, 2007

Karl Laczko
I was out last night so picking this up a day late (99 a bit low on the comments compared to some recently?).

That last one sounded a lot of crap, and the best of the bunch too!

QOTD (1&2) Have not had a Brunello, but do like it’s cousin, the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. I’m top heavy in Italian wines at the moment (& bought an Aglianico thanks to you) so may be some time before I buy one, but I’ll try and get a taste somewhere.

Liked the Tony Vincent song, definately not terrible.
July 26, 2007

justin
Awsome episode
July 26, 2007

KC Dan
Qotd Never had a brunello will have to seek one out .
July 26, 2007

Maureen
The song is “A better way” by and with Tony Vincent
July 26, 2007

PaulJ
Great show. You are absolutely right. Price escalation in Cali, Oregon, Columbia River Valley, France have brought Brunello back into the fray has a very high QPR contender, especially in a strong vintage.

QOTD: 1999 Argiano Brunello di Montalcino, Birthday present from my wife. Did I ever marry the right woman!
July 26, 2007

BillyA
A very intriguing episode, Gary. I enjoy the Brunellos as I find them to consistently reflect the terroir , yet present so much individual personality. I visited Tuscany and was head over heels for the Brunellos. I was lucky enough to find a 97 Frescobaldi Castelgiocondi. OMG! I recently tried a 99 Argiano which was the hit of the night after several Italian varieties. And, we imbibed a ton of Peccorino Parm with it. Now, that’s a meal.

I do have a question. You mentioned something about Brunellos having to be aged for at least 3 or 5 years in oak? Is 3 years the minimum? Are Rossos simply aged less time? If so, what is the minimum that they must be aged? Once again, thanks for all you do. I’m learning all the time.

Sincerely,

Billy A.
July 27, 2007

Mason
QOTD: Never have tried a Brunello, but after watching this show, I want to run the my favorite wine shop and find one!
July 27, 2007

Daniel
Winecritics and music donÂ´t mix.
IÂ´m sorry but music at the end is a 52- pts track. Actually I almost threw up my BdM La Fiorita Riserva 2001.

Red some wine magazines that tries too add som music reviews: and please, pretty please donÂ´t destroy WLTV with music!

All you other Wainics with ringinÂ´ ears and hurting tummies seek out some George Benson healing: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Df_7IaKmfI

regards
/the music lover
July 27, 2007

vibemore
QOTD: Poggio Lontano Brunello di Montalcino 2000
Sadly, I don’t have much Brunello experience.
July 27, 2007

Capt M
QOTD: I’ve never had Brunello. But I’ll be headed out to the candy store here in a few minutes. ConcepciÃ³n and I love you and send our warm regards. Please go to our Wine Tasting pictures in Facebook (Oops! dirty word) and comment on one of our pics when you have a chance.
July 27, 2007

Elliot Essman
Brunello invariably turns out to be a restaurant wine for me, and my memory is challenged as to makers and vintages. I’ve got to snuggle up to a nice bottle at home soon.
July 28, 2007

Tony R
Gary,

The best Brunello i’ve ever tasted is the 1999 Gorelli. Wow! I tend to like them all, but that for me was a standout.
July 28, 2007

Godfather
Best Brunello was the 1990 Altesino. This wine rewarded ageing (15 years) and was the equal of any mature Bordeaux I’ve tasted.
July 28, 2007

Mike Erdely
Nice episode. Looking forward to trying out Brunello.

I really liked the music at the end. I know Troy Vincent was a good NFL safety, but he can sing too?
July 28, 2007

Keith
Great show, love Brunello, it is the King of Tuscany, wish it was more affordable/accessible, but it is still worth the money
July 28, 2007

Chris
Gary,
Love the Grady Sizemore reference. Go Tribe!
July 29, 2007

Dusty
good to see an episode on a wine that i’ve just recently been delving into. very exciting! great job once again Gary.
July 29, 2007

LostinTuscany
Gary,
The law in Montalcino changed recently. Brunello by law must only be aged in oak for two years now. Many producers are keeping them in for three but the law only requires two. What is more interesting is that it seems almost everyone in intergrating more and more french oak. Also interesting is the difference in style and climate between northern and southern montalcino.

Gary…..check my blog when you get a minute…I just got back and I’m still transposing my notes and pictures.
http://lostintuscany.blogspot.com/
July 30, 2007

rob
Also just returned from tuscany…2002 brunello, virtually across the board, was disappointing. Many producers (Poggio Di Soto, Poggio Antico to name a few), did not produce any 2002 brunello. Most seemed thin and unconcentrated to me, at least by brunello standards. Having visited at least 15 producers, I would highly recommend not paying “top dollar” for 2002 brunello.
July 30, 2007

Totte
Gary

Hugely dissapointed to not see my blog in the collage at the end…I did badge you up and I did send a link…

QotD : I cant remember the name…but it was good…some 2 3 years ago…

Swedish T
July 30, 2007

Mandy
GO GRADY!!! Thanks Gary – love to see the Cleveland support!!!
July 31, 2007

Nico
dude, thanks for another brunello episode!

QOTD: my best Brunello to date, what made me love Brunello: 2001 Baricci “Colombaio di Montosoli” Brunello di Montalcino
QOTD part II: the 2001 Pinino with Robiola like you did in another Brunello episode.

-Nico
July 31, 2007

Ferrigno
Hello Gary, I’ve just returned from a trip to Mexico DF and so I’m still catching up!!! well well well, haven’t you asked already this episode’s QOTD???? I will not answer it since I DON’T WANT TO, but I WILL tell you, I love Brunellos, I love the sangio and I F-ING LOVE ITALIAN ALL-AROUND (THAT MEANS RED, WHITE, SWEET AND SPARK’D) WINES!!!! I am excited to finally watch you again!
August 2, 2007

YoungDave
QOTD: My CKC budget has left me deprived- I’ve never had a Brunello. Ever. So sad… I need a moment (sniffle).
August 2, 2007

mcj
QOTD: Never had a Brunello either.
August 2, 2007

JayZee
Yet another stellar effort from the G-Man!

QOTD: The best Brunello I ever had was a La Gerla Reserva when I was in Frascati a few years ago. I think it was a 1997. It was excellent and we had some wonderful Asiago cheese with it as well. Nice combo for my taste.
August 10, 2007

OldVinesJim
QOTD: Have never tasted Brunello. It’s always seemed expensive and I don’t know the producers so I’ve not taken the risk yet. Now I have a few recommendations. Thanks, GV!
August 24, 2007

Brandon M
Kahuna Rocks!
October 16, 2007

Serggi
Hi Gary,

great show man! I think that the best brunellos I’ve ever had so far is La Poderina and San Giorgio with talegio (triple cream italian “stinky” cheese) that was an incredible experience.

Salud,

Serggi
October 16, 2007

Serggi
Hey Gary, I forgot to mentioned those brunellos (La Poderina & San Giorgio)were from the great vintage of 1997!

Salud,

Serggi
January 6, 2008

Lynda Albertson
Hey guys…just a bit further information on Brunello and its bottling/naming etc from wet and rainy Toscana.

The Brunello di Montalcino “Riserva” is only produced in years when the harvest is considered to be an exceptional vintage and only then utilizing selected grapes, so some years its not produced at all. After a period of ageing for four years in oak, the “Riserva” is eventually released to the market at a date no less than six years after the harvest.

Brunello itself must spend three years in wood and are released each January, 5 years after the harvest year, meaning the 2003 is just being released in January 2008. As the Brunello Riserva must spend an extra year in wood it is released 6 years after harvest to allow the tannins to soften (the 2002 Riservas will begin to be released now, in January 2008.

Some of the newer producers are switching to small barrique for aging to appeal to new world wine lovers, though if you stick to traditional styling (in Botte) the taste of the Sangiovese, in ll her complexity, shines through.

Rosso di Montalcino has no specific aging requirements and is what we call, the “little sister”, a great spaghetti red here at â‚¬9-12 a bottle, though probably a bit pricier stateside.

Ciao and happy sipping!
Lynda Albertson, Wine Journalist
In Vino Veritas
July 28, 2008

Dessert Wine Nerd
QOTD: Never had one…. ARRRGGGGGGHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!
October 24, 2008

Steven Pleasants
1997 Fulligui is the best brunello I have ever had, with a 99 Castelo Banfi right behind
June 27, 2009

Adrian aka AnGkEr
QOTD: Never had one before….sigh..
July 14, 2009

phredd
Liked the Tony Vincent thing. Very nice.