2010 Rosso di Montalcino

Over the past fifteen years, Pian dell'Orino’s Rosso di Montalcino has always been a dependable wine while waiting for the Brunellos to approach their apex. In fact, it is a “must-buy wine” for me year after year. On my recent visit to the property, I tasted the 2022, 2019, 2015, 2010 and even the 2004 (which will be published with the 2004 Retrospective). All I can say is that the magic is still alive. While the prices of Pian dell'Orino have escalated over time, their Rosso is still one of the best values in the region. It’s fantastic upon release, yet it also ages remarkably well.

It is amazing how far Pian dell'Orino has come in just a few years. Proprietors Jan Erbach and Caroline Pobitzer own what is now one of the very top estates in Montalcino, hands down. Tasting the wines from barrel is an amazing experience equaled by visits in only a handful of top domaines in the world. In this cellar, Sangiovese boasts striking finesse and crystalline purity. Jan Erbach describes 2008 as a difficult year, with rain during the flowering and significant disease pressure. Conditions improved during September and into early October, when the last of the fruit came in. Yields are down 40% across the board. I still think the straight Brunello is the best wine at Pian dell'Orino. Going forward, Pian dell'Orino will no longer issue a Riserva, but when conditions allow will release single-vineyard designates. The fruit is so pure here, I am not sure that extended aging in oak is really necessary. Readers who haven't discovered Pian dell'Orino are in for a treat.