Uccelliera Brunello di Montalcino 2018 from Castelnuovo dell’Abate is a powerful yet beautifully judged Brunello – all about dark cherry depth, savoury complexity and serious structure, without ever feeling clumsy or overworked.

On the nose, this 2018 Uccelliera Brunello di Montalcino layers preserved cherry, wild strawberry, dried roses, sweet tobacco, balsamic and wooded spice over earthy, stony notes, fresh sage and wild herbs. The palate is full‑bodied and compact, with crunchy red and black fruits, ripe but assertive tannins, refreshing acidity and fantastic balance, already delicious but clearly built to evolve into leather, dried herb and truffle territory over the next 10–20 years.

Food‑wise, it’s a natural match for bistecca alla Fiorentina, slow‑braised beef or lamb, rich ragù with pappardelle, game dishes and aged pecorino or parmesan, where its structure and umami core really sing. Decant for a couple of hours now if you’re opening Uccelliera Brunello 2018 in its youth, or cellar it confidently as a centrepiece bottle for special occasions down the track.