Neri’s 2000 Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto is another powerful, muscular effort. Its aromatics are somewhat suppressed by the hot vintage, and although it offers plenty of fruit and notable expansiveness on the palate it lacks the nuance and depth of expression of the stunning 1999. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2017. Importer: Dalla Terra, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405

Here is the proverbial underdog vintage that stays under the radar. The 2000 Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto is drinking nicely right now and probably won't last too much longer. The bouquet is immediate and accessible, with moderate depth and simple tones of wild berry, dried cherry and spice. There are smoky tones on the close with hints of scorched earth and black-road pavement. Maybe a touch of rubber tire as well. If I had a bottle, I wouldn't wait to drink it.

Subtle yet rich for the vintage, with cedar, blackberry and licorice aromas. Full-bodied, with lovely silky tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Layers of refined, polished tannins. Very fine for the vintage. Best after 2006. 1,020 cases made, 250 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add

Bravo Giacomo Neri! This wine raises the bar on modern Brunello and offers a peek view into the future and potential of this incredibly expressive wine. Super concentrated and intense, whiffs of roasted espresso bean, tannery, summer-ripe black cherries, and porcini mushrooms peel back layer after layer. A firmly tannic touch is there to remind you to drink this wine anytime after ten years. Imported by William Grant & Sons, Inc. ——W.E.(4/1/2006)—— 96