The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is just as impressive as it was last year. Explosive, intense and beautifully delineated, the Riserva deftly balances finesse and power. Sweet dark cherry, plum, mint, spice and new leather meld together in a sumptuous, layered Brunello built on class.

Aromas of blueberries, blackberries and flowers. Full body, round and velvety tannins. Savory and delicious. So much fruit yet this is so tight and gorgeous. If you missed the 2010 regular bottling, try this. Needs a year or two to soften.

Bright cherry and ripe strawberries are complemented by sweet autumnal spices and dusty florals as the 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva blossoms in the glass, gaining an enriching hint of ginger cookie over time. It soothes the palate with velvety textures, as vibrant acidity and citrus-tinged berries drench the senses in primary concentration. The inner earth tones and wild herbs found within continue to add pleasurable contrasts, and grippy tannins collect toward the close. Hints of plum, brown spice and leather slowly taper off through the incredibly long finale. While still quite structured, the 2010 is just starting to wake from its long slumber, and where it will go from here is very exciting to think about.

The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is an impressive creation with a unique and interesting read of this classic vintage. The wine is bold and bright, with great intensity that accompanies it from start to finish. Dark cherry and blackberry find balanced contrast against layers of spice, cumin and cardamom. I mentioned the intensity but keep in mind that it is very well balanced. The wine never goes over the limit. That same fact is true of the mouthfeel. On the palate, it offers tight textural richness with more fruit flavors and bright acidity. (Monica Larner)