Fabulous aromas of black cherry, bark, pine cone, raspberry and burnt orange peel follow through to a full body with ultra-fine tannins that run the length of the wine. It’s fruity yet savory and so vivid and endless. Structured yet full of polish and beauty. Best ever? Drink after 2027.

Lots of clean berry and cherry fruit here, bound together by elegant and fine tannins on a full-bodied palate that’s solid and layered, whist maintaining a delicate touch throughout. From organically grown grapes. So well constructed, this is ready to drink now, but will age nicely, too.

The 2008 Brunello di Montalcino is the most polished, refined wine I have ever tasted from Loacker. Ripe, silky tannins support a core of expressive dark red fruit in this gracious, mid-weight wine. Floral notes add lift on the finish. Sweet, succulent and expressive, the 2008 should drink well for the next handful of years. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018. Importer: Maverick Wine Company, Binseville, IL; tel. (630) 860-4600

The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino offers up black cherries, mocha, plums, rosemary, violets, spices and earthiness in a rich, full-bodied style. The wine possesses surprising depth and body, all of which carries through to the powerful, intense finish. This is one of the more muscular Brunellos readers will come across in 2005. Some rough edges remain but this is nevertheless a strong effort from Loacker. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020. Importer: Wine Appellations Ltd., Mill Valley, CA; tel. (415) 381-5782

The 2004 Brunello di Montalcino is a fresh, vibrant offering bursting with dark cherries, violets, underbrush, minerals and sweet toasted oak on a medium-bodied frame. The wine reveals terrific balance in an energetic, focused style, with firm yet ripe tannins. The finish is long, clean and refreshing. This is a gorgeous effort from Loacker. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2019. Importer: Verdoni Import, Hawthorne, NJ; tel. (973) 636-0800