The 1997 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva matches its rival from 1997 in terms of power and persuasive personality. This wine exhibits a deeply polished or silky nature that sets it apart in a crowd. The fresh fruit is gone, but is happily replaced with creme de cassis, candied plum, root beer, balsam herb and crushed mineral. The concentration and thickness of the wine is remarkable, especially considering how juicy it is after all these years. Drink it now or hold longer. When you do pop the cork, make sure to aerate for at least four hours. Drink: 2014-2028.