The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino Clandestino is deeper darker and richer than the normal bottling. Scents of smoke, incense, spices and dark cherries emerge from the glass. The Clandestino has plenty of intensity and depth, but is also marked significantly by the French oak. Pinino is clearly working with first-class fruit. The wine shows tons of potential, but the estate needs to fine tune the approach a bit more. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2026. Importer: USA Wine Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 941-7133

This starts out with cherry, earth and spice flavors and a supple texture. Then the assertive tannins take over and build on the finish. There's a touch of oak as well. This has excellent length, but needs time to integrate. Best from 2013 through 2024. 300 cases made, 180 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add