The estate’s 2008 Brunello di Montalcino Poggio alle Mura is one of the richer, racier wines of the vintage. Sweet red cherries, kirsch, flowers, mint and hard candy all flesh out in glass. Today, the French oak is a bit more evident than in some of Banfi’s other wines. The 2008 comes across as both over-ripe and penalized by hard tannins, an odd combination of attributes. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020. I tasted a number of new wines from Castello Banfi this year. The estate seems to be differentiating their wines a little more than in the past into an entry-level line and a more prestigious Poggio alle Mura range, which has now been enhanced with the addition of a new Rosso and non-Riserva Poggio alle Mura Brunello. I have to say the new Poggio alle Mura wines are distinctive and highly appealing. Importer: Banfi Vintners, Glen Head, NY; tel. (516) 626-9200

A rich cherry flavor is accented by flint, iron and earth notes complemented by a hint of spice. Fresh and elegant, ending with dense tannins and a long, spicy finish. Best from 2016 through 2032. 4,500 cases made, 200 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add