2006 Brunello di Montalcino

Good bright, full red. Wonderfully aromatic nose combines sour cherry, blood orange, mace, nutmeg and an exotic suggestion of apricot. Then supple, silky and harmonious in the mouth, with captivating sweetness to the flavors of red fruits, mocha and spices. Impeccably balanced, firmly structured Brunello with a long, lively finish--and an expressive example of the sangiovese variety. Brunello di Montalcino typically retails between $60 and $90, so this superb bottle, from an outstanding vintage for the category, represents strong relative value.

The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino emerges from the glass with wild cherries, smoke, tar, underbrush, new leather, licorice and spices. This dark, inward, yet mid-weight Brunello shows excellent length on the palate and fine overall balance. With time in the glass the wine reveals notable depth in its fruit, along with layers of aromatic complexity that continue to add nuance and shape. The firm, resonating finish suggests a bright future. This is a beautiful wine from Collosorbo.

The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino emerges from the glass with wild cherries, smoke, tar, underbrush, new leather, licorice and spices. This dark, inward, yet mid-weight Brunello shows excellent length on the palate and fine overall balance. With time in the glass the wine reveals notable depth in its fruit, along with layers of aromatic complexity that continue to add nuance and shape. The firm, resonating finish suggests a bright future. This is a beautiful wine from Collosorbo. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2026. Importers: Frank E. Johnson, New York, NY; tel. (212) 535-2612; A. Bommarito Wines, St. Louis, MO; tel. (313) 961-8996; Adam Richard, Atlanta, GA; tel. (678) 530-9334