Argiano's medium-bodied 2003 Brunello di Montalcino offers outstanding clarity and definition in its dark cherries, tobacco, earthiness and underbrush. The tannins of the vintage are there, but the wine is beautifully balanced and is just plain delicious. The Brunello spent a year in used French oak barrels followed by a year in cask. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018. Argiano, located in Sant-Angelo in Colle, seems to be going through a particularly distinguished period as the wines have never been better. Once again, Argiano has produced a lovely modern-styled Sangiovese in its Suolo, a selection of the estate's finest Sangiovese aged in new French oak barrels. The wine reveals a delicate, feminine personality. Notes of crushed flowers, spices and sweet toasted oak waft out of the glass, followed by layers of dark red fruit. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200

A bit jammy, but very fruity on the nose. Full-bodied, with soft tannins and a medium finish. A little rustic, but attractive. Best after 2008. 9,100 cases made, 2,500 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add