Vivid dark red. Ripe aromas of red cherry, blood orange and stone fruit. Smooth, dense and juicy, with flavors similar to the aromas but complicated by notes of fresh herbs, sweet spices and hints of flint. Long and suave, with noble but youthfully chewy tannins providing support. Knockout classic Brunello, in fact, one of the year’s best.

The Conti Costanti 2012 Brunello di Montalcino is a sure bet even if you are a Sangiovese novice. This is a richly extracted and beautifully layered red wine that imparts generous fruit tones supported by ample spice and tobacco. The effect is supple and round, especially with regards to the bouquet. I am perhaps a little more hesitant when it comes to the mouthfeel. I tend to notice the overripe fruit here and there is a sour cherry flavor that reinforces this impression. The wine is soft and supple in texture, so basically it offers a mixed bag of mostly positive vinous sensations that make it attractive for near-term consumption.