The 1999 Brunello di Montalcino, impressive in its dark ruby-garnet, is very sustained and sweet on the nose with ample notes of raspberry fruit, tar, and mocha. Powerful and firm on the palate, the tannins take on more suppleness and polish with swirling and oxygen, and the ripeness of the fruit and the roundness of the texture are even more evident on the close. Drink: 2006-2017. Importer: Vinity Wine Co, Emeryville, CA; tel. (510) 601-6010

Wow. This shows an impressive depth of blackberry, floral, cedar and lightly toasted oak on the nose. Full-bodied, with a solid core of caressing tannins and a long flavorful finish. Plenty going on in the glass here. Not imported into the U.S. Best after 2006.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add