This has softened up somewhat, with bright acidity framing the cherry, sweet plum and spice notes. There's still an edge of tannins, but this is well put together. Best from 2012 through 2020. 833 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add

The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is typical Sangiovese from the southern part of the zone in a cool year. A gorgeous, translucent red, the Riserva offers up a classic profile of red fruit, tobacco, underbrush, mint and crushed flowers. The 2005 naturally has quite a bit of primary fruit left, but the real joy will come in another 5-10 years when the full range of tertiatry aromas is fully developed. This understated beauty is not an immediate wine, but in time it will thrill those who can look beyond instant gratification. An impeccably long, mineral-laced finish points to a bright future. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030. Importer: Palm Bay International, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 362-9642

Col d’Orcia is the only property I am aware of that is releasing a Riserva in the very difficult 2002 vintage, but Cinzano was particularly pleased with one barrel of his Brunello that year and decided to fly in the face of conventional wisdom by bottling the wine. The 2002 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a surprisingly successful effort. It shows an attractive inner sweetness and notable balance even though it naturally is lacking body and texture. To be sure, this will always be a leaner style of Brunello but it should develop nicely in bottle. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2017. In addition to making wines at his estate Col d’Orcia proprietor Count Francesco Marone Cinzano is also the newly appointed President of the Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino. Cinzano cuts a dashing figure and his diplomatic, aristocratic background seems to be a perfect fit for leading the producers’ consortium through the challenges it faces today. Importer: Palm Bay International, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 362-9642

Lovely aromas of orange peel, plums and berries. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and bright well-focused fruit. It's silky and caressing. A beauty. Drink now. 1,500 cases made.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add

A good quality, round-textured Brunello with cherr and wet earth character. Medium tannins, medium finish. Drink now. 1,450 cases made.??–null??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add