The estate’s top bottling, the 2001 Brunello di Montalcino La Casa, is a strong effort. More concentrated than the normal bottling, it offers notable finesse in its suggestions of flowers, spices, red fruits and well-integrated oak. Deceptively understated, it gives the impression of still having much to say, and a few years of cellaring are recommended.. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham AL; tel. (205) 980-8802

Menthol, toast and modest berry offset a stern and firmly tannic wine that needs more time in the cellar. Wood notes tend to obscure the fruit and the finish is dry and somewhat astringent. Imported by Vineyard Brands.——W.E.(4/1/2006)—— 89