2006 Brunello di Montalcino

Just mid ruby and maturing with orange rim. Very compact and tight, and very slow and dark. Spectacular acidity melting into the sweet fruit. Elegant but firm tannins. Hint of liquorice and cherry. Elegant palate weight, which slowly opens up to red fruit and pomegranate. Can and should be aged for much longer but already a pretty whole. (WS)

The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino is remarkably harmonious at this young stage, quite a departure at Biondi-Santi. The 2006 shows dazzling richness and integrity in its powerful fruit in a totally captivating, sensual style. This is a beautifully centered, complete Brunello with a bright future ahead of it. The Brunello was fermented in cement and aged for three years in cask.

The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino is remarkably harmonious at this young stage, quite a departure at Biondi-Santi. The 2006 shows dazzling richness and integrity in its powerful fruit in a totally captivating, sensual style. This is a beautifully centered, complete Brunello with a bright future ahead of it. The Brunello was fermented in cement and aged for three years in cask. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2036. Importer: Vision Wine & Spirits, Secaucus, NJ; tel. (201) 210-0400 A visit to Il Greppo is always fascinating, as the estate is literally packed with history at every corner. The old casks, some of which date to the late 1800s, the collection of rare bottles and the impeccably clean, traditionally outfitted cellar are all worth a look. I was impressed with the wines I tasted from Biondi-Santi this year. The 2007 Rosso and 2006 Brunello are both far more accessible than the super-austere wines that were common here not too long ago. Importer: Vision Wine & Spirits, Secaucus, NJ; tel. (201) 210-0400