A selection of the finest lots went into the 1997 Brunello di Montalcino Poggio Banale. A fabulous effort for the vintage, it boasts a deep ruby/purple color in addition to a sweet bouquet of new saddle leather, damp earth, kirsch liqueur, pepper, incense, and Asian spices, superb concentration, immense body, and a long, spicy, rich finish with moderate tannin as well as structure. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2022. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200