The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino marks a significant change of direction from past vintages. The dark, heavy style has been replaced by a much more finessed, elegant expression of fruit. Sweet red cherries, crushed flowers, mint and licorice are woven together beautifully in this silky, multi-dimensional, graceful Brunello. Sweet notes from the oak are intermingled with floral overtones on the silky finish. The 2006 is the most interesting wine I have tasted from Fanti in quite a few years. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. Importer: Massanois Imports, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 470-6769

A dose of new oak lends vanilla and clove aromas and flavors, along with cherry and blackberry. There's a brightness to this red, and the tannins are well-integrated, despite being firm and dense. Fine length. Best from 2013 through 2025. 5,833 cases made, 1,250 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add

Gorgeous on all fronts save for a tiny touch of rawness on the nose. Aromas include fresh cedar wood, incense and creme de cassis syrup. The wine is determined and powerful in terms of alcohol and delivers long, rich intensity to match. ——M.L.(4/1/2011)—— 91