The 2008 Brunello di Montalcino sweeps across the palate with superb richness and depth. Dark cherries, plums, spices, tobacco and menthol blossom as the wine opens up in the glass. A decidedly large-scaled, dramatic wine for the year, the 2008 impresses for its pure resonance and rich, enveloping finish. This is one of the most rewarding 2008s to drink upon release, but it should also age well for a number of years. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2020. Giacomo Neri is brutally honest in describing 2008 as a challenging vintage marked by significant rain and hail events. Overall production is down 40% across the board. Neri’s 2008s are impressive for the year, however, and are a testament to a grower who is willing to make the hard choices necessary to ensure consistently high quality. Importer: Dalla Terra, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405

Mint and camphor aromas lead off, with flavors of cherry, raspberry, clove and tobacco. This is vibrant and solidly built, with a burly finish. Best from 2016 through 2027. 4,900 cases made, 1,800 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add