The 2010 La Mannella Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva, produced by Cortonesi, cost about $100, scored 18+ points on the Dionysian scale of 20 and has 14.5% alcohol. Anything higher districts from Brunello. It was bottle number 1,431 out of the 4,000 made.  The wine, at seven years old is just starting to open and will live for another 35 to 45 years.

The Cortonesi producers make Brunello from both the northern and southern parts of Brunello. This Riserva is outstanding.

The Cortonesi producers make Brunello from both the northern and southern parts of Brunello. This Riserva is outstanding and from a vintage I have rated a 10 out of 10.

The cherry, smoke and spicy notes hold up to any meat dish and pairs heavenly with a cheesy pasta meal.  Yes, it cost a lot, but sometimes, you know,  it’s just worth it. In vino veritas.