La Fiorita Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2016

Three Glasses, Gambero Rosso: "The Riserva '16 takes home Tre Bicchieri thanks to its vibrant, fresh bouquet of fruit, while notes of tobacco, graphite and singular iodine whiffs contribute to its complexity; a potent and rich drink of great harmony, softened by a fine tannic embroidery and a sapid acid vein; a very long finish to close. (2023)"

95 points Bruce Sanderson (Wine Spectator): "This cherry- and raspberry-flavored red is underlined by a saline note, with floral, eucalyptus, thyme and tobacco notes joining the party as everything plays out on the lingering, tightly wound finish. Shows energy and finds balance in the end. Best from 2026 through 2043. 266 cases made, 130 cases imported. (6/30/22)"

95 points James Suckling: "Sweet berries and cherries with orange peel and hints of sandalwood. Medium to full body with firm, integrated tannins and a fresh, vivid finish. Firm tannins, but together and so delicious already. Give this two or three years to come around even more. Try after 2023. (11/4/21)"

95 points Ian D'Agata (Terroir Sense)

95 points Daniele Cernilli (Doctor Wine)

94 points Michaela Morris (Decanter): "A single vineyard expression from Pian Bossolino, La Fiorita’s Riserva was picked on 10 October. It comes across as very ripe in its aromas of wild black cherry and exotically spiced plum. Traces of smoke interject. There is a stony undertow on the mid-palate countering the boisterous mix of red and black fruit. A full-bodied, southern Brunello, this is well-proportioned and elegant in tannins. It finishes delectably sappy. Among the many overhauls this estate has made in the last few years, La Fiorita began working with renowned consultant Maurizio Castelli in 2016. Drinking Window: 2022-2035. (11/20/21)"

93 points Monica Larner (Wine Advocate): "La Fiorita's 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva leaves a lasting impression that is due to the purity and the depth of aromas in part but is also due to the very high 15% alcohol. A little less alcoholic heat would be more conducive to the delicate and lifted aromas of Sangiovese. Fruit for the Riserva comes solely from the Pian Bossolino vineyard. This wine is instead all about brawn and muscle; as a result, you're best off serving it with a creamy dish like steak smothered in mushroom sauce. A mere 3,200 bottles are hitting the market now. Drink: 2024-2040. (2/17/22)"

17++/20 points Walter Speller (JancisRobinson.com): "Single vineyard Pian Bossolino, an east-facing vineyard at 360 m above sea level. Lustrous deep ruby. A deep cherry nose with hints of oatmeal. Deep sweet-sour cherry fruit palate that is still a little embryonic. Lots of concentration yet still composed and with lots of crunchy tannins. Quite baroque. A little rich but with lots of juice. Drink: 2024-2036 (Mar 2022)"