The 2004 Brunello di Montalcino is soft and generous in its cherries in liqueur, menthol, flowers and spices. High-toned aromatics frame the fruit through to the finish, where a kick of warmth from the alcohol resonates on the close. This is an accessible, generous and pleasing Brunello to drink over the following decade or so. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019. Importers: Masciarelli Wine Company, Weymouth, MA; tel. (781) 335-6620; Villa Italia Imports, South San Francisco, CA; tel. (650) 873-6060

Raspberry, plum skin and flowers on the nose follow through to a full body, with round tannins and a fruity, dried-flower aftertaste. Slightly chewy. Needs some more bottle time. Best after 2011. 3,390 cases made, 600 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add

Restrained, medicinal, serious nose. Closed but hinting at Amarone cherry. Slow to develop but structure is promising.

Healthy and lively fruit characterize this vibrant Brunello from Capanna. The wine offers cheerful buoyancy and pristine aromas of red cherry and exotic spice. It’s tight and firm on the palate with a good balance of acidity and tannins and a luminous, polished feel overall.——M.L.(6/1/2009)—— 92