2018 Brunello di Montalcino

Packaged with the burgundy-colored label, the Tenute Silvio Nardi 2018 Brunello di Montalcino reveals a darkly saturated, almost inky appearance with black ruby highlights. The bouquet is laced with dark cherry fruit and blackberry preserves, and there is juice and energy inside, which is very nice. A second wave of spice and mild tobacco adds to the wine's volume and intensity. I do feel the oak tannins. However, the wine's powerful 15.5% alcohol content is an obstacle that takes away from the elegance of the grape. This is a 150,000-bottle production.

The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino impresses with a perfumed blend of fresh blackberries enshrouded in an air of violets, lavender and crushed stone. This is supple and soothing upon the palate, with floral-laced red and black fruit underscored by a core of saline-minerality. The 2018 lingers impossibly long with a staining of primary concentration and gently grippy tannins while maintaining a marvelous fresh persona. The balance here is quite stunning.

Impenetrable, dark, maturing ruby. Brooding and very concentrated nose with hints of incense and the merest suggestion of bacon. Intense, concentrated fruit on the palate. Has lots of everything but lacks a little in finesse. Has the character of a really late harvest in a warm year. (WS)