1999 Brunello di Montalcino

Saturated medium ruby. Captivating, fresh aromas of black raspberry, cherry, milk chocolate, mocha and noble oak. Suave, densely packed and highly aromatic in the mouth; still quite primary and young but already supple. Berry and chocolate flavors are complicated by subtle hints of truffle, earth and leather. Characterful, beautifully balanced Brunello with lovely life in the mouth. The ripe tannins are thoroughly covered by fruit.

Good, true, appetising, nutty nose with a deep, fascinating, autumnal undertow. Lovely balance. All in harmony. Lots of acidity and fruit. Tannins almost invisible until the very end. (JR)

There are few surer bets in this appellation than the wines of Roberto Guerrini, who manages to find time both to run his family vineyards and cellar and teach criminal law at the University of Siena. The 1999 Brunello di Montalcino, in its combination of power and elegance, shows why the house has a dedicated following – the string of highly successful vintages began here in 1983 and there has not been a single misstep for over a decade and a half. Very fresh and brilliant in color, the potent and varietal aromas of wild cherries, tobacco, and chocolate swell in the glass and the flavors have a similar warmth and expansion, sweet and ripe on the attack, round, dense, and polished on the mid-palate and finish. Drink: 2005-2018. Apr 2005, www.robertparker.com