The 2004 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is built on a core of elegance and refinement rather than the sheer power that typically characterizes the estate’s wines. This is a sensual, layered Brunello that only gradually reveals its seductive charm. Sweet, silky tannins support a core of ripe dark fruit all the way through to the sublime, delicate finish. Readers looking for a blockbuster 2004 Riserva should look elsewhere, but those in search of the elegant side of Brunello will find much to admire here. That said; the wine gained quite a bit of volume and depth with air, so it will be interesting to see where things go from here. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2024. Canalicchio di Sopra - Ripaccioli seems to be making better and better wines with each passing vintage. The estate’s Rosso and Brunellos are sourced from vineyards in the Canalicchio and Montosoli districts, both on the northern side of Montalcino, and are aged predominantly in cask. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907

There's licorice on the nose, with some salt and ripe cherry, in this Brunello, which has very intense aromas that lead to a chewy, concentrated, full-bodied palate. A little rustic and overdone. But impressive nonetheless. There's lots of toasty oak--a little less new wood would make this even better. Best after 2013. 500 cases made, 200 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add

Here’s another superstar Brunello Riserva from the excellent 2004 vintage. The aromas are rich and penetrating and recall cherry liqueur, cola, mesquite, cedar, wet earth and pressed violets. The wine’s texture is streamlined and compact with polished tannins.——M.L.(8/1/2010)—— 93