The estate’s medium-bodied 2003 Brunello di Montalcino is made in an accessible, forward style. Dark cherries, tobacco, earthiness and tar nuances all flow from the glass in this poised, feminine expression of Sangiovese from the southern part of Montalcino. The wine shows outstanding persistence and a pretty note of freshness that rounds out the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018. Proprietor Paolo Bianchini is upbeat about his 2003 Brunellos. It is the first vintage in which he had the tools to perform a cold soak, which he feels was especially critical in preserving as much freshness as possible in the wines. For the Brunellos, fermentation and maceration lasted several weeks and the wines were aged in cask. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411

Offers black cherry and light spice, with some vanilla. Full bodied, with fresh, clean fruit and a silky finish. Balanced and pretty, with a caressing texture. Best after 2010. 3,750 cases made, 1,665 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add

Ripe cherry, clove, cinnamon, leather and spice shape a well-balanced wine that exhibits both depth and complexity. Tones of prunes and dried fruit add warm accents and the wine delivers smooth but firm tannins.——M.L.(5/1/2009)—— 89