Like many of the best winemakers, Andrea Cortonesi does not follow a formula or make wines for a particular style or camp. He’s been working in the vineyards of Montalcino for over 30 years and... Read More

Like many of the best winemakers, Andrea Cortonesi does not follow a formula or make wines for a particular style or camp. He’s been working in the vineyards of Montalcino for over 30 years and his focus is on capturing the elegance and beauty of this famous terroir. You could say that he’s an innovative traditionalist, or that he is more polished than rustic. But mostly he just makes delicious wines from Sangiovese.

Andrea’s first label (he also produces Voliero at the same estate), Uccelliera has a very passionate and devoted following among Italian wine lovers. They're powerful, explosive wines that always carry a sense of elegance and freshness. This is a top Brunello estate that consistently garners high praise and ratings, yet their wines remain very well-priced.

Six hectares of organically farmed Sangiovese, two of which are situated right next door to the famed Piccolomini 'Pianrosso' vineyard, are devoted to Brunello. Fermentation with spontaneous yeasts takes place in steel tanks over 20-25 days before being moved to large French and Slovenian botti to rest for at least 24 months before bottling. The Riserva sees an additional 12 to 18 months of barrel aging and 18 months in the bottle.