The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino delivers a surprising high level of sophistication and complexity for the vintage with intermingled aromas of dried cherry, savory spice, cured meat, dusty earth and pressed blue flowers. At its essence, this wine represents a quintessential Sangiovese. The mouthfeel is somewhat contradictory, in a positive way, with sweet fruit flavors pitted elegantly against finely textured tannins. Drink: 2017-2026. Claudio Tipa of Coastal Tuscany’s Collemassari (and Bolgheri’s Grattamacco) is the new owner of the 12-hectare Poggio di Sotto estate since 2011. Although these wines were produced under the previous owner, the cantankerous Piero Palmucci, they happily pave the way for a new chapter at this iconic estate in the Castelnuovo dell’Abate subzone in the appellation’s southwest quadrant. Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, www.kermitlynch.com

An elegant, almost ethereal red, this exhibits sweet cherry, strawberry and tea flavors, with an intense mineral streak running underneath. Shows fine balance and grace, with well-integrated tannins on the long finish. Best from 2016 through 2023. 450 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add