Compared to the lackluster base Brunello for the same vintage, the 1997 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva springs to life in spectacular style. This is a bold and brooding wine, but not over the top, with toasted oak, moist earth, leather, cola, licorice and anise seed all thrown in to the layered bouquet. Cherry liqueur and dried cranberry lingers in the back adding fruity tones and vigor. This is a generous and giving wine that should maintain this high level of performance for many more years. Give the wine up to four hours in the decanter. Drink: 2014-2030.

Medium ruby-garnet, with plum, orange peel and flowers on the nose. Full-bodied, with a wonderfully silky palate. Long and caressing. Very beautiful. All in the right proportion.--1997 Italian blind retrospective. Drink now. 2,500 cases made, 1,000 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add