The 2007 Brunello di Montalcino Sugarille is dazzling. Dark fruit, tar, licorice and smoke come to life in this dramatic, large-scaled Brunello. The 2007 boasts incredible intensity and power all the way through to the palate-staining finish. Today the tannins are big and imposing, but they should start settling down as the wine approaches its tenth birthday. I saw the wine shut down quickly in the glass, which is an excellent sign for its potential longevity. This is a flat-out gorgeous bottle of wine. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2027. I tasted an amazing range of wines at Pieve Santa Restituta, including the 1996 and 1997 Brunello di Montalino Rennina, both of which have aged beautifully and show no signs of fading. Those wines were some of the first the Gaja family made in Montalcino, when they had far less experience than they do today. I have little doubt today’s wines are going to be even better. Pieve Santa Restituta sometimes gets lost in the Gaja lineup, but the estate’s best Brunelli are easily among the finest in the entire appellation. Readers who want to learn more about the property may want to check out my video interview with Gaia Gaja on www.erobertparker.com Importer: Terlato Wines International, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604-8900

A smooth, fleshy red, with cherry, licorice and leather flavors matched to a firm, pliable structure. Opulent and balanced, with bright acidity as well as grip on the finish. Best from 2014 through 2027. 250 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add