2011 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva

This wine floored me. The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a stunning beauty and a wine well worth the attention (if you can afford its lofty pricing aspirations). Thankfully, the beauty of the contents will help alleviate some of the sticker shock. This is a supple and silky expression with an infinite array of Sangiovese-based aromas. You'll recognize wild cassis, forest floor, autumnal leaf, button mushroom, grilled herb, rosemary, balsam herb and red rose petal. The effect is fragrant and delicate. The mouthfeel is equally ethereal and nuanced. With only 3,500 bottles made, not many of us will have the luxury of trying this beautiful wine. And, that is really too bad. Mar 2017, www.robertparker.com