Barbi’s 2004 Brunello di Montalcino opens with scents of tobacco, underbrush and spices that lead to dark red cherries on the palate. Though medium in body, the wine reveals surprising depth and finessed tannins that give it a terrific sense of proportion. Today the wine remains rather firm and tight, but the raw material seems to be there for this to develop into a gorgeous, rewarding Brunello in a few years’ time. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022. Importer: Wine Project Inc., New York, NY; tel. (917) 697-8575

Dark cherry and raspberry aromas follow through to a full body, with loads of chewy tannins and rich fruit. The fruit concentration is impressive, yet this is balanced and in form. Best after 2010. 17,000 cases made, 3,000 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add