This starts out with cherry, earth and spice flavors and a supple texture. Then the assertive tannins take over and build on the finish. There's a touch of oak as well. This has excellent length, but needs time to integrate. Best from 2013 through 2024. 300 cases made, 180 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add

The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino Clandestino is deeper darker and richer than the normal bottling. Scents of smoke, incense, spices and dark cherries emerge from the glass. The Clandestino has plenty of intensity and depth, but is also marked significantly by the French oak. Pinino is clearly working with first-class fruit. The wine shows tons of potential, but the estate needs to fine tune the approach a bit more. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2026. Importer: USA Wine Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 941-7133

The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino Clandestino is a touch darker, firmer and fresher than the regular bottling. It, too, possesses outstanding overall balance. Violets, plums, minerals and spices are some of the aromas and flavors that make an appearance in the glass. Today the tannins come across as a touch firm, and another year or two in bottle can only do the Clandestino good. The Clandestino spends about six months longer in French oak than the regular bottling. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022. Pinino is a small estate located in the Montosoli district with vineyards in Montosoli itself and in Canchi, which lies to the north-east of the town of Montalcino. Over the last few years the wines have been quite promising. Importer: USA Wine Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 941-7133

Has blackberries and fresh mushrooms, with hints of flowers on the nose following through to a full body, with soft, silky tannins and a fresh finish. A little short, but outstanding nonetheless. Give it a little more bottle age. Best after 2009. 610 cases made, 305 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add

The 2004 Brunello di Montalcino Clandestino is a big, concentrated wine packed with dark fruit. Though well-made from a technical standpoint, there is little complexity to speak of. The Clandestino is made in a decidedly more opulent style than the regular bottling, but does not appear to be as well-balanced. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2014. Importer: TGIC Imports, Inc., Woodland Hills, CA; tel. (415) 595-6244