The 2003 Brunello di Montalcino is very representative of the house style in its intense expression of ripe dark fruit, menthol, leather, chocolate and spices. It offers superb richness and depth, with notable complexity for a wine of its size. Another year of bottle age should help smooth the tannins yet I wouldn’t wait too long to drink this wine, as it will likely offers its best drinking relatively early. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2016. Proprietor Andrea Cortonesi fashions big, full-bodied wines from his vineyards in the southern part of the zone. This is a very strong set of releases from a producer who represents the finest of the artisan approach to making wines in Montalcino. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411

Shows wonderful aromas of ripe berry, fresh mushroom, cigar box and spices. Full-bodied, with superfine tannins and a long finish. Excellent for the vintage. Best after 2010. 1,660 cases made, 700 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add

Usually among our favorite Brunellos, this vintage from Uccelliera tastes hot and jammy. The wine opens with sweet, strawberry-like aromas and follows with roasted coffee or espresso grinds. It’s a big, bold wine with chewy fruit flavors.——M.L.(5/1/2009)—— 86