The heat of the vintage seems to have filled out the 2003 Brunello di Montalcino very nicely. A sumptuous, beautiful wine, it offers layers of vibrant, ripe fruit intermingled with sweet toasted oak, revealing superb inner tension, poise and balance. The tannins are firm, but well-integrated. This wine shut down quickly in the glass but it was impressive both times I tasted it. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2018. In recent years I've often found Caparzo's wines to be irregular so its nice to see this venerable estate come through with two outstanding Brunellos. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham AL; tel. (205) 980-8802

Aromas of slightly stewed cherry and berry, with hints of coffee bean, follow through to a full body, with plenty of fruit and a velvety, soft and round finish. Pretty and moreish. Best after 2009. 8,300 cases made, 1,100 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add