La Gerla’s 2008 Brunello di Montalcino hits the palate with a blast of dark fruit, game, tobacco, licorice and incense. Wild, powerful and intense, the 2008 packs serious punch. Ideally, it is best left alone for a few years so that the tannins can soften in bottle. There is no shortage of personality in this full-bodied, authoritative Brunello. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2020. Importers: Vera Foods, Springfield, NJ; tel. (973) 912-0274; Slocum & Sons, North Haven, CT; tel. (203) 239-8000; Wine WareHouse, City of Commerce, CA; tel. (323) 724-1700; Giuliana Imports, Boulder, CO; (303) 547-6343; Vinamericas, New York; tel. (212) 268-8033

Full and rich, offering cherry, kirsch, tobacco and earth aromas and flavors. The ripe, refined tannins are buried under the sweetness and flesh, emerging on the resonant finish. Shows fine energy. Best from 2015 through 2029. 1,200 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add