Dark and imposing in the glass, the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a delicate bouquet of balsam herbs and smoke, giving way to cedar spice box, dusty rose and dried black cherries. This is incredibly soft and pliant on the palate, with lavender-tinged, ripe red and black fruits guided by juicy acidity. Violet inner florals and a bitter tinge of balsamic spice linger as the 2016 finishes long and lightly structured, with edgy tannins that frame the experience without slowing its momentum. While already quite appealing, with a good decanting, the 2016 is still years away from its optimal drinking window.

Lustrous mid ruby. Pure deep sweet, youthful cherry nose with a hint of black tea leaves and a suggestion of oak. Succulent cherry fruit palate that closes up swiftly. Tangy finish with gorgeous coating tannins. Super-elegant palate weight at 14.5% alcohol, yet plenty of concentration. Needs more time, though. (WS)