2004 Brunello di Montalcino
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Tasting notes
The 2004 Brunello di Montalcino unwinds in the glass, revealing aromas of dusty library book, steeped plums and cherries, all lifted by hints of mint. It has shed its youthful intensity, coming across as lifted and soft-contoured as it hovers across the palate. Still tannic yet pleasantly chewy, the 2004 finishes with grace, leaving an air of licorice to fade. Give this some air before indulging—the bouquet finds a lovely focus over time.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
The Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The black-truffle, dark-berry and plum aromas here are very impressive indeed. Full body, tight and integrated tannins and a long and beautiful finish. Why wait? Drink now.
The 2004 Brunello di Montalcino hits the palate with serious depth, power and intensity. Smoke, grilled herbs, licorice, scorched earth, iron and wild cherries. This is an especially ferrous, powerful 2004. All things considered, the 2004 has aged well, although it won't last forever. Any remaining bottles are best enjoyed over the next handful of years. The tannins will outlast the fruit here, that much is clear.
Deep red-ruby. Black fruits and licorice on the nose. Rich but chunky-even a bit youthfully stunted-with deep, fat dark fruit flavors in need of more lift and definition. Finishes with substantial, slightly drying tannins. Aeration brought more sweetness to the dark berry flavors along with notes of chocolate and leather. A serious mouthful of red wine but a bit anonymous as Brunello.