May 17, 2022 - The wine introduces itself with a very delicate suggestion of stone fruit. This is quickly followed by the realization that this wine is incredibly mellow. Towards mid-palate there is a slight hint of minty herbs. The wine is not terribly full-bodied but it is so satisfying. Under the rear palate there is some stoniness. This wine may be a tad past its peak, but it is SO GOOD.
November 4, 2021 - Crunchy cherries and cranberries, soft spice, oak and earth, integrated tannines and mouthwatering acidity.
Great freshness and vivacity, in a wonderful spot tight now!
October 25, 2021 - 1 day old sample. Drank in Conterno Sensory. Tasted semi-blind.
Appearance is clear, deep intensity, garnet colour. Legs.
Nose is clean, pronounced intensity, with aromas of meaty broth, sous bois, forest floor earth with some mushrooms, Tuscan dust, ripe dark red cherries, dark plums, balsamic. Developed.
On the palate, dry, medium+ acidity, medium+ alcohol, structured integrated high tannins, full body. Medium+ flavour intensity, with flavours of balsamic, classic sour red cherries, ripe darker red cherries, dark plums, savoury earth. Long savoury finish.
Very good quality. My guess was late 90s or maybe 2001 Brunello. Feels traditional. Quite ripe and probably a Riserva.
May 28, 2021 - Surprisingly good - fruit starting to go so drink up.
March 30, 2021 - Still drinking great. Well made reserve brunello’s can go for decades. Decanted for 2 hours. Little sediment. Balance of fruit & earth. Loved it.
March 28, 2020 - Purchased at the winery and cold cellared since. Past its prime but still enjoyable to drink.
September 21, 2018 - Smooth as silk. Not much fruit to speak of. Past its peak, for sure, but gets the higher score, as an old friend should. This wine was probably at its best in 2008, when we had a couple bottles at a dinner. She has aged gracefully, though, and that is worth something.
March 31, 2018 - Wow. This is what I wish all my aged Italian wine tasted like. Great body with moderate tannin. The fruit stood out with black cherry, tobacco and leather. Excellent balance. Wish this wasn't my last bottle.
January 21, 2018 - In great condition. Showing full maturity, not likely to get much better, but has good staying power. Fruit less pronounced and hints of chocolate. Really enjoyable.
June 21, 2017 - Tasted it from a double magnum. This is a very good wine and still drinking beautifully at 20 years. It still has several years left - although it is not likely to noticeably improve with further aging.