High-toned aromatics lead to a firm, taut expression of fruit in Costanti’s 2004 Brunello di Montalcino. Wild herbs, red cherries, tobacco and flowers are just some of the nuances that emerge from this chiseled, traditionally-made Brunello. The wine possesses gorgeous length and finessed tannins that provide lovely balance. Today the wine is clenched and unexpressive, but it should come together in bottle. That said, numerous bottles of this Brunello have failed to deliver the magic I found when I tasted the wine from tank prior to bottling. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. My recent visit with Andrea Costanti was illuminating, as I had the opportunity to taste a number of lots of his Brunellos from cask and tank. At their best, these are some of the most elegant, refined wines being made in Montalcino. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

Rich and subtle, delivering plum, berry and ripe strawberry character, with dried mushroom undertones. Full, with a ripe, velvety tannin backbone and beautiful fruit. Features coffee and berries on the finish, with bright acidity. Best after 2011. 2,500 cases made, 750 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add