"This is concentrated and powerful, sporting cherry, plum and woodsy aromas and flavors. Still monolithic, with dense tannins, yet the lingering finish reveals a balance and harmony in the end. Best from 2015 through 2035. 450 cases made. –BS"
- Wine Spectator (July 31st 2012), 91 pts
"The aromas feature beautiful tones of black mineral, licorice, peppercorn and ripe fruit. This is a dark, brooding Brunello with an elegant, dry nose and layers of opulence that build momentum. Overall, it's round, rich and well structured. Drink after 2018. — M.L."
- Wine Enthusiast (May 1st 2012), 94 pts
"The folks at Tenuta Vitanza have always shown a deft hand when it comes to crafting intense and dense Brunellos. This expression shows that trademark extraction followed by pretty aromas of dark cherry, tobacco and prune. But there's also a drying touch of dusty mineral that gives the wine elegance and finesse. — M.L."
- Wine Enthusiast (May 1st 2013), 93 pts
"Shows lovely purity to the cherry and strawberry flavors, offering floral, tobacco and spice notes. A delicate style, exhibiting terrific expression and harmony. This is well-structured and long, with a fruit- and spice-filled finish. Best from 2015 through 2030. 280 cases made. –BS"
- Wine Spectator (Web only 2013), 95 pts
"The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is the nicest wine presented by Tenuta Vitanza this year. This expression definitely shows its oaky side but that new oak style (French tonneaux primarily) is characteristic of this estate located in the Torrenieri subzone that makes some of the darkest and most extracted expressions of Brunello regardless. Dark fruit, prune, plum, cherry, spice, cedar, cardamon and grilled herb all compete for your attention. The ensemble is bold, opulent and rich in a way that most other Brunello wines are not. There is a note of sourness on the tannins. Every once in a while you need a supersized Brunello to pair with that T-bone steak you crave. — Monica Larner"
- Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate (Issue 217, February 2015), 90 pts
- Wine Enthusiast (May 2016), 88 pts
