1996 Soldera Case Basse, Brunello di Montalcino, Riserva 1x750ml

Vinous 95

Soldera’s 1996 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a bit burly and rough around the edges. The 1996 is not an especially refined wine, nor does it have the inner sweetness of the very best vintages, but it is a good choice for current drinking, if given a good bit of air. Smoke, leather, dried cherry and licorice add to the wine’s brooding, inward personality. The tannins are a bit coarse, but I don’t see time making a material difference. [Antonio Galloni, 01/10/2016]

Anticipated maturity: 2016-2030

Robert Parker 87

The 1996 is a firm, austere, pinched effort revealing notes of cigar tobacco, Provencal herbs, tar, and red currants in addition to attenuated, dessicated flavors in the finish. While the bouquet merits a score in the upper eighties, the flavors are much less impressive. Some believe this type of vintage will expand and become richer with time in the bottle. However, I’m doubtful. Nevertheless, all this proves is that even Soldera can not always hit the bull’s eye when vintage conditions are this challenging. After a remarkable run of great vintages for this idiosyncratic producer, Soldera has turned out a mere mortal wine in 1996, admittedly a difficult vintage for Brunello. I recognize the controversial nature of these wines, which possess high volatile acidity as well as incredible perfumes. For many tasters, they have too many things going on. However, I have loved previous vintages, even if they are among the most expensive wines in Italy. Anticipated maturity: now-2015. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200 [Robert M. Parker, Jr., 12/31/2002]

Anticipated maturity: 2002-2015