Banfi’s 2004 Brunello di Montalcino is a pretty, delicate offering laced with raspberries, flowers and sweet baking spices. Fine, silky tannins add to an overall impression of elegance as this mid-weight Brunello opens up in the glass. The wine is already quite open and accessible, and should continue to drink well for the better part of the next decade. This is one of the more refined wines I have tasted from Banfi in recent years. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020. Importer: Banfi Vintners, Glen Head, NY; tel. (516) 626-9200

Has fabulous aromas of blackberry, black cherry and raspberry. Full-bodied, with wonderfully integrated tannins, fresh mushrooms and milk chocolate. Chewy in the end. We will see if this is better than the 2001 with age. Best after 2010. 45,800 cases made, 15,000 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Brunello di Montalcino Select to Add

Dense floral nose over some blackberries. Balanced tannic structure with freshness, natural spiciness and depth.

This is a very good wine but just misses a 90-plus score because of the overt ripeness of the fruit: Past vintages of Banfi’s base Brunello have shown more elegance and freshness. Aromas include mature strawberry, blackberry and spice. The tannins are firm and raw and need a bit more time to mellow.——M.L.(6/1/2009)—— 89