The 2008 Rosso di Montalcino is a big, generous Rosso loaded with fruit. The wine reveals gorgeous balance, no hard edges and a compelling personality, all of which make it a great choice for near-term drinking. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2012. Proprietor Paolo Bianchini has turned out a gorgeous set of wines. In 2005 Bianchini elected to forgo his top Brunello, Pianrosso, and bottle just his straight Brunello, which has all of the best fruit he was able to bring in that year. The result speaks for itself. I also tasted a number of Brunellos in cask from vintages 2006 through 2008 that appear quite promising. As good as the Brunellos are, value-conscious readers will want to pay special attention to Ciacci’s entry-level wines, which are just as noteworthy. Importer: Indigenous Selections, Fort Lauderdale FL; tel. (954) 530-4021

Genuine, clean and simple, this bright Rosso di Montalcino offers aromas of cedar wood and cherry cola over loads of wild berry fruit. There’s a raw, simple quality to the wine and fresh fruit abounds.——M.L.(8/1/2010)—— 86