The 2006 Cerbaiona Brunello di Montalicino was the most impressive wine of the day. It was fabulous when it was first opened, and it stayed that way over the course of several hours. Layer after layer of flavor blossomed in a Brunello of true pedigree and class. The 2006 remains one of the greatest wines ever made by Diego and Nora Molinari. I only wish I owned more of it. In a word: stunning.

The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino literally explodes onto the palate with masses of dark cherries, plums, wild herbs, menthol and spices. Hard candy and gorgeous inner perfume emerge from a sweet, ripe and totally expressive core. The finish is elegant, decisive and eternal. At times the Cerbaiona 2006 has been surprisingly dark and weighty while other tastings have shown the more finessed side of the wine. Either way, it is a Brunello to buy and bury in the deepest corner of the cellar. It is a mythical, legendary wine in the making. The Brunello spent 40 months in cask. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2031.

Bright medium red. Explosive aromas of crushed red cherry, raspberry, exotic flowers, minerals and incense. Like liquid silk in the mouth, with penetrating floral perfume and lift thanks to strong acidity. Wonderfully floral, gripping sangiovese with intense sour cherry and raspberry fruit carrying through to the juicy, extremely long finish. Reminiscent of a top Chambolle-Musigny, and built to reward aging.