One of the oldest estates producing Brunello di Montalcino, Valdicava is located in the Montosoli area, famous in Montalcino for wines with great balance of body and aroma. Vincenzo Abbruzzese, owner and winemaker, has been making wine at Valdicava for more than 30 years. He and his family have long-crafted Sangiovese masterpieces, and their Brunellos are considered a benchmark - among the finest in the region. Vincenzo is known to be one of the masters of Brunello due to his passion and intense dedication to the vineyard, and clinical attention to detail at each step of the wine-making process.

Nearly 67 of the 333 acres of the property are dedicated to vines, all strictly Sangiovese. Martini Bramante, Vincenzo Abbruzzese’s grandfather, bought the property in 1953 and began bottling “Brunello Valdicava” in 1968. Today, with the help of Valdicava’s agronomist, Andrea Paoletti, and oenologist Attillio Paglio, Vincenzo has succeeded in bringing his wines to the next level and in establishing a stellar reputation.

Riserva Madonna del Piano, hails from one of the first and best single-vineyard sites in Montalcino, with production dating back to 1977. Made only in the best vintages and from the oldest vines on the property, in 1994 Valdicava was granted the right to list the Madonna del Piano vineyard designation on the label. The 19.5 hectare single vineyard is divided into four parts: old vines, Pievecchina, Pratea and Sferracavallo. Owner Vincenzo Abbruzzese harvests the vines from each part of the vineyard at different times and makes the wines separately before blending them together. The wine is then aged about two years in large old casks and another two years in bottle.

The 2015 Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano is a truly exceptional wine that showcases the best of Sangiovese Grosso from the Brunello di Montalcino region in Tuscany, Italy. With a deep, ruby-red color, this wine immediately catches the eye and promises a sensory journey like no other.

Upon first opening the bottle, the nose is greeted with a spectacular array of aromas. Crushed fruit, plums, sous bois, porcini, and black truffles intertwine to create a symphony of scents that captivate the senses. Despite the decadent nature of the year, the wine retains a fresh quality that adds to its allure.

On the palate, the 2015 Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano reveals its true character. Full-bodied and dense, yet remarkably balanced and refined, this wine showcases incredible depth and consistency. The linear structure of the wine ensures a focused and precise drinking experience, while the savory and juicy finish leaves a lasting impression. Vivid acidity and fruit notes add brightness and complexity, making each sip a revelation.

Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded this wine a perfect score of 100 points, describing it as the "greatest ever." He suggests cellaring it until 2025 to fully appreciate its potential, although he admits he can't wait to try it again. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also praises this wine, awarding it an impressive score of 96 points. The publication notes the balance between power and elegance, highlighting the dried cherry, cassis, cranberry, and grilled herb flavors.

Vinous, another respected wine publication, gives this wine a score of 95 points and describes it as having a mentholated freshness. They note the concentrated fruit flavors, silky texture, and grippy tannins that indicate its potential for aging. Wine Spectator also joins in praising this wine, awarding it a score of 97 points. They highlight the pure and vibrant cherry, berry, and wild herb flavors, as well as the fresh, mineral-tinged finish.

With only 2,000 cases made, the 2015 Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano is a true gem. Its exceptional quality and rave reviews make it a must-have for any wine enthusiast. This wine is best enjoyed from 2024 through 2049, allowing it to fully evolve and showcase its harmonious and refined character.