A recent addition to the range, the 2011 Rosso di Montalcino Poggio alle Mure is drop-dead gorgeous. Black cherries, licorice, tar, smoke and menthol all jump from the glass in this boisterous, expressive Rosso. The tannins are a bit firm for the vintage, but they are also well-balanced. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2019.
I tasted a number of new wines from Castello Banfi this year. The estate seems to be differentiating their wines a little more than in the past into an entry-level line and a more prestigious Poggio alle Mura range, which has now been enhanced with the addition of a new Rosso and non-Riserva Poggio alle Mura Brunello. I have to say the new Poggio alle Mura wines are distinctive and highly appealing.
Importer: Banfi Vintners, Glen Head, NY; tel. (516) 626-9200