The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino is one of the undeniable successes of the vintage. Dark cherries, violets, tar and licorice are just some of the nuances that emerge from this plush, fruit-driven Brunello. The wine remains wonderfully soft and generous all the way through to an enveloping finish that invites a second taste. The freshness here makes me think the wine will develop nicely in bottle. This is wonderful juice! La Poderina ages their Brunello in cask (60%) and French oak (40%) for the first year, followed by a second year done entirely in cask followed by 18 months in bottle. Readers can also look forward to a 2005 Riserva Poggio Banale that has already been bottled. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020. This year the highlights at La Poderina are without question the Brunellos. In particular, I was deeply impressed by the 2003 Riserva Poggio Banale, which is a phenomenal effort in this torrid vintage. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200

Shows intense aromas of tangerine peel and blueberry. Medium- to full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long, racy finish. Still fresh and reserved. Best after 2011. 4,585 cases made, 665 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add

This ruby-colored Brunello offer a distinct mineral accent that is surrounded by fruity tones of wild berries, cassis and cherry cola. There’s also a meaty or smoky quality here that gives the wine more heft and determination in the mouth. Drink it with grilled sausage. ——M.L.(10/1/2010)—— 91