Very perfumed aromas of ripe fruit such as strawberries and blackberries. Turns to flowers and incense. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a bright, citrus aftertaste and ultra-clean fruit. The purity and focus of the wine is spellbinding. Better in 2015.

The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva slowly rises up from the glass. Swirling brings forward an array of exotic spices, dried strawberries, cloves and hints of fresh mint. It mixes sweet and salty, packed full of vibrantly ripe fruit, yet also mineral to the core, with a jolt of tantalizing acidity that provides lift and energy. The 2006 leaves a tinge of sour citrus and balsamic tones that pucker the cheeks, finishing youthfully tense and gently tannic. This can be enjoyed today or cellared for another decade or more. It's a drop-dead gorgeous Brunello Riserva.

Bright red. Terrific floral lift to the ripe aromas of red fruits and spices. Perfumed and penetrating in the mouth, with outstanding energy and thrust to the spicy cherry and redcurrant flavors. No excess weight here! Most impressive today on the very long, fine-grained finish, which features a saline nuance, suave tannins and superb palate-cleansing mineral grip. Balanced from day one but quite dense and tightly coiled: I'd hold my bottles for at least four or five years before pulling the cork. This outstanding riserva should be long-lived.

The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva wafts from the glass with sweet red cherries, dried flowers, licorice and tobacco. It shows lovely energy on the mid-palate to match its understated, refined personality. Silky tannins support the expressive, nuanced finish. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2026 AG