2005 Brunello di Montalcino Pian delle Vigne

The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino is a gorgeous, classy offering laced with fragrant, mineral-infused red fruit, flowers and spices. This delicate, medium-bodied Brunello reveals outstanding length and a clean, refreshing finish. With time in the glass, the wine's inner perfume emerges, adding even greater complexity. Antinori's 2005 Brunello is one of the successes of the vintage, particularly when one considers the large production in excess of 12,000 cases.

The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino is a gorgeous, classy offering laced with fragrant, mineral-infused red fruit, flowers and spices. This delicate, medium-bodied Brunello reveals outstanding length and a clean, refreshing finish. With time in the glass, the wine’s inner perfume emerges, adding even greater complexity. Antinori’s 2005 Brunello is one of the successes of the vintage, particularly when one considers the large production in excess of 12,000 cases. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2021. I was very impressed with both Brunellos I tasted from Antinori this year. Stylistically the wines seem to be placing more emphasis on elegance over sheer power and the results are striking. Importer: Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, Woodinville, WA, tel. (425) 415-3738

Medium deep, with orange/brown rim of medium concentration. Fine nose, sweet and with hints of cinnamon and incense. Good balance between fruit and acidity. The palate seems quite mellow and soft with fairly low acidity. Slightly rustic, drying tannins and a warm finish. Already quite approachable. (WS)