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

Offers blackberry and flowers on the nose. Full-bodied, with firm, chewy tannins and a focused, polished finish of ripe, fresh fruit. Tight right now. Needs bottle age to open. Best after 2011. 2,500 cases made, 1,250 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add

Executed in a plush modern style, this opulent Brunello offers tones of black chocolate, espresso, toast, cherry and leather. The wine’s appearance is dense and dark and there’s power and determination on the close. It’s also slightly sweet and very succulent with enduring flavors of plump cherry. Drink after 2015.——M.L.(8/1/2010)—— 93