Jay Kline

9.7

Of all the American red wines that participated in the Judgement of Paris, it could be argued that Monte Bello has shown the greatest propensity to age. In fact, I would go as far as it requires lengthy cellaring to extract its best. I’ve had the good fortune to drink a number of tremendous vintages of Monte Bello over the last several years and this one has got to be at or near the top of the lot.

Opened and poured into a decanter about an hour prior to service and enjoyed over the course of a few hours. The 1991 Monte Bello pours a deep ruby/purple color with an opaque core moving out towards a light ruby rim; medium+ viscosity with moderate staining of the tears and some signs of sediment. On the nose, the wine is developing (still!) with gorgeous notes of ripe and tart black currants, mixed bramble fruit, tobacco, some purple flowers, dill, mint, leather, earth, vanilla and associated baking spices. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannin and medium+ acid. The structure remains tremendous which again, seems to indicate youth. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is super long and immensely satisfying. This is one of those wines that will outlive most humans. Drinking well now with a short decant but this has the gas to see 2061 with ease. — 16 days ago

Jane Nuss

9.2

Ruby in color with aromas of ripe cherry, raspberry, vanilla, and earthy hints. Decanting softens the smoky notes, revealing bright red fruit and a touch of licorice. The palate is dry and well-balanced, with smooth tannins, refreshing acidity, and a long, fruity finish. A versatile, well-structured wine that pairs easily with food.
— 2 months ago

Jay Kline

9.1

Popped and poured; enjoyed over four days and fairly consistent throughout. The 2020 Riserva pours a deep garnet color with a near opaque core; medium viscosity with light staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is developing with notes of ripe and tart red fruit: raspberry, Morello cherry, red plum, black tea, red flowers, dried green herbs, and gravelly earth. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannin and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is medium+. Drink now through 2035 easy. — 3 days ago

Andrew McIntyre

9.4

Too young but insane potential...going to buy more. Love this wine and its depth and complexity. Paired well with venison. — a month ago

John Bratincevic

9.1

Dried black cherry, cassis, stones. Good! 91. — a month ago

Bob McDonald

9.3

See previous Note. Old plummie, red cherry notes. Barb said dusty and pine needles. A cooler vintage. I said red cherries and freshly tilled loam. As Galloni said “In 2010 Ama did not bottle their single vineyard selections. All the best fruit went here.” Tasting more the quality of a Brunello than a Chianti Classico. No. 6 in Wine Spectators Top 100 for 2015. — 2 months ago

Andrew McIntyre

9.4

The type of wine I love drinking...especially with my wife. So many amazing memories attached to the flavours. 2016 Supertuscans are just amazing 😍 — a day ago

Craig Marino

9.3

Really enjoyed this w Berg and Bemnie — 23 days ago

Anthony De Blasi

9.5

Our princess her birthday. Time for the yearly 2011. This Sammarco was soo good. A bit of VA in the nose, sweet start and than the acidity kicks in. Very balanced. And quite some time ahead. Wow! — a month ago

Rich Bluth

9.2

drinking perfectly now. enjoy! — a month ago