The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino is seriously dark, rich and intense. Black cherries, underbrush, new leather and licorice all come together in a sensual, powerful expression of Sangiovese. There is surprising depth to the round fruit. Though delicious today, this is one of the few 2005 Brunellos that needs bottle age for some of the tannins to soften. It is a fabulous 2005. There will be no Riserva in 2005 as Sassetti used all of the best fruit for the regular bottling. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2023. This is a fabulous set of new releases from Sassetti that readers will absolutely not want to miss. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; (516) 677-9300, Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael CA; (415) 492-9411, Giuliana Imports, Boulder CO; (303) 547-6343, Robert Houde Wines, Bensenville IL; (630) 422-1119