The 1997 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova exhibits a darkly concentrated and opulent appearance that translates directly into a soft and voluptuous mouthfeel. The wine is built on a solid foundation of ripe fruit and soft tannins. This is very much a wine of its time. It reflects all those ideals—the evident dry extract, the fullness and the oak spice—that define Italian wine from the mid-1990s. But like a time capsule, it brings us an authentic and well-preserved taste of the past that tastes delightful today.

The dark garnet-colored 1997 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova's personality is dominated by hard, dry tannin. Notions of sweet cherry fruit, herbs, damp earth, mushrooms, and cedar are followed by an emaciated, attenuated finish. Drink it over the next 5-6 years. Importer: William Grant & Sons, Edison, NJ; tel. (732) 225-9000

Dark ruby. Wonderful aromas of crushed berry, fresh flowers and red licorice. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, long finish. Lots of mushroom, berry and chocolate flavors.--1997 Italian blind retrospective. Best after 0. 4,580 cases made, 950 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add