Subtle and sophisticated in the nose with fresh flowers, sweet berries, orange peel and red cherries. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins that run the length of the wine. Racy and focused with finesse and verve. From organically grown grapes. May be better than 2015 and 2016. Best after 2027.

The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino shows a medium-dark garnet color with a pretty ruby shine that underlines the wine's careful extraction that is neither too light nor too dark. Sangiovese, with its wild berry, cherry, blue flower and earthy root aromas, is allowed ample space to breathe and express itself. Secondary aromas of spice and tar add aromatic weight and complexity. There is fresh acidity and tight structure to wrap up the palate. In all, this is a very neat and compact wine that should perform nicely with modest bottle age. Only 4,000 bottles were produced.

The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino (with 4,500 bottles made) offers great balance and a very pretty personality that is grounded in bright fruit (cherries), earthiness and crushed flowers. The wine is very smooth and integrated, most notably in terms of its polished tannins, and there is of course a spot of bright acidity on the close. It never reveals that it was in fact born in a hot, drought-prone vintage.