The 2009 Rosso di Montalcino is a dazzling wine. Rich dark plums, cherries, spices and tobacco emerge from this extroverted, intense Rosso. The raciness of the fruit leaves a lasting impression. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014. A renewed focus on quality is in the air at Banfi. A new sorting table and smaller, custom-designed tanks that allow for parcel-by-parcel vinification were added for the 2007 harvest, and the first results seem promising. I tasted a number of single-clone and single-vineyard Brunelli from the 2009 vintage that showed beautifully, while an approximate blend of the 2007 Brunello was also strong. It will be fascinating to watch the direction Montalcino's largest and best-known estate takes over the coming years. Importer: Banfi Vintners, Glen Head, NY; tel. (516) 626-9200The 2009 Rosso di Montalcino is a dazzling wine. Rich dark plums, cherries, spices and tobacco emerge from this extroverted, intense Rosso. The raciness of the fruit leaves a lasting impression. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014. A renewed focus on quality is in the air at Banfi. A new sorting table and smaller, custom-designed tanks that allow for parcel-by-parcel vinification were added for the 2007 harvest, and the first results seem promising. I tasted a number of single-clone and single-vineyard Brunelli from the 2009 vintage that showed beautifully, while an approximate blend of the 2007 Brunello was also strong. It will be fascinating to watch the direction Montalcino's largest and best-known estate takes over the coming years. -- Antonio Galloni
An absolute delight and an incredible bargain for lovers of classic Brunello di Montalcino. Brilliant and lively ruby red in color; the noble bouquet captures the essence of Brunello di Montalcino, with scents of wild berries, violets, truffles and a hint of smoky roast nuts. On the palate, the vibrant, precisely focused fruit has a vibrant, ringing, wild cherry complexity reminiscent of a Chambolle-Musigny or Volnay; however, the deep forest, roast chestnut, and plum tart elements of classic Brunello announce themselves strongly as the wine opens in the glass. Although this wine has at least 10-15 years of aging potential, the unusually forward fruit and impressively polished tannins make it delicious to drink now. For maximum enjoyment, it should be decanted approximately one hour before drinking.
Very pretty aromas of mulberry and flowers lead to a full body, with toasty oak, coffee and dark fruits on the palate, followed by a chewy tannic finish. Still tight and holding back. Best after 2012. 1,365 cases made. JS
The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino is a wonderfully plush, warm Brunello loaded with radiant fruit. Flowers, licorice and leather develop in the glass, adding dimension to this opulent, expressive wine. The sheer depth of the fruit and the open, sweet bouquet completely cover the tannins, making this one of the most approachable wines of the vintage. This remains a rich, full-bodied Brunello capable of delivering plenty of enjoyment now and over the next handful of years at a minimum. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2024. Various American importers, including: Selected Estates of Europe, Mamaroneck, NY; tel. (914) 698-7202; Grappoli Imports, Ltd, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 519-2155The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino is a wonderfully plush, warm Brunello loaded with radiant fruit. Flowers, licorice and leather develop in the glass, adding dimension to this opulent, expressive wine. The sheer depth of the fruit and the open, sweet bouquet completely cover the tannins, making this one of the most approachable wines of the vintage. This remains a rich, full-bodied Brunello capable of delivering plenty of enjoyment now and over the next handful of years at a minimum. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2024. -- Antonio Galloni