Wine Advocate 93
Proudly from Montosoli, the Baricci 2017 Brunello di Montalcino shows a generous authentic personality with earthy tones, dried fruit, ripe cherry and roasted herb. This warm-vintage wine is elegant and pure, although there is a meaty or smoky note that is part and parcel of the 2017 vintage. This wine registers 15% alcohol and a thick, open-knit texture. It could use a
bit more fruit definition, and I would recommend a near or medium-term drinking window for this bottle. No doubt, Baricci Colombaio Montosoli (this is the full name of the estate) is blessed with one of the best growing sites in the Brunello
appellation. The vineyard is spectacular, with views of the medieval Montalcino skyline in the distance and open plains of sun-lit exposures. This is one of a handful of wineries located in the Montosoli subzone, with its special well-draining mix of marl
and galestro soils. Ancient marina fossils are often found here. The area also enjoys steep diurnal shifts, making for fresh wines with lifted, fragrant aromas. Federico Buffi and his family recently completed construction on a winery overhaul. Located a few steps away from the best vineyard sites, the old winery was cramped and needed updating, especially in the fermentation area.

Vinous Media 94

With the first tilt of the glass, you know that this is not your average 2017 Brunello di Montalcino. An enthralling bouquet of spiced citrus peels, roses, sour cherries, crushed rocks and animal musk keeps you at the edge of your seat. This is remarkably pure and delicate, seeming to hover across the palate, yet delivering a vivid mix of ripe wild berries, salty minerals and purple-tinged florals. Beneath, saturated tannins build, yet the expression remains fresh – almost mouthwatering, in fact – as sweet hints of plum and tobacco slowly fade. While the Baricci family doesn’t market their wine as a cru, this is indeed 100% Montosoli fruit from one of the region's top winemaking families.