The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino Pelagrilli is born from a vineyard in the northern half of Montalcino and opens to darker concentration and a bold bouquet. Prune, dark cherry, spice and tobacco are layered carefully one over the other. Pelagrilli ages for 24 months in 225-liter barrique. There’s a definite ripeness to the fruit, but the effects of this more opulent style are pulled off with grace in this hot vintage. Drink: 2015-2023. Year after year, Siro Pacenti (run by the detailed-minded Giancarlo Pacenti) is one of the estates I most enjoy tasting during my annual trip to Montalcino. Talk about hitting the nail on the head, even in a more challenging vintage like 2009. Both Brunellos presented this year are compelling, bright and show enough of the proverbial “baby fat” to carry through them through the years. The winery is located in the northern quadrant of the appellation, although some fruit for the base Brunello is sourced from Piancornello, in the far south of the production zone. Importer: Michael Skurnik Wines, www.skurnikwines.com

Rich and spicy, this red delivers a core of cherry, leather and briar flavors, backed by a firmly tannic structure. Fresh and moderately long. Best from 2016 through 2026. 1,250 cases made, 200 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add