1988 Livio Sassetti Pertimali Brunello di Montalcino

The awesome and inspirational 1988 Brunello di Montalcino is super-extracted, with an opaque, deep ruby/purple color, a highly promising nose of roasted nuts, black fruits, herbs, and Asian spices. The wine is massively rich, yet impeccably well-balanced, with fabulous purity, and a multidimensional feel to it. If you can find any, it is a must purchase. Anticipated maturity: 1996-2010. This tiny estate, which has been making spectacular wines since 1982, makes some of the finest red wines in Tuscany. I am beginning to think that if I had only one Brunello di Montalcino to drink it would have to be Pertimali. Unfortunately, quantities are microscopic, making availability a major headache. Importer: a Marc de Grazia Selection, Michael Skurnick Wines, Westbury, NY.