2015 La Magia, Brunello di Montalcino

La Magia's 2015 Brunello di Montalcino is restrained at first. Cool-toned red berry fruits, hints of sage, brown spice and lifting minerality open up first. Silky textures usher in tart red fruits, energized by brisk acids with a mix of minerals and spice, saturating the senses. The finish is long, as a coating of dark red berry concentrate clings to the senses amidst fine tannins which arrive late yet hold firm.

La Magia's 2015 Brunello di Montalcino shows a dark garnet appearance with faint sepia hues. It showcases a classic Brunello color and austerity of aromas: Dried cherry, cassis, rum cake, balsam herb and dried lilac add complexity and depth. This pretty wine changes aromatic personality with each swirl of the glass, revealing dark primary fruit and smoky spice with each circular movement. There are subtle hints of candied cherry or cherry cough drop, with faint medicinal herb, that point to the heat and warmth of this growing season in sunny Tuscany. Enjoy those aromas alongside a platter of pecorino wedges. About 43,000 bottles were released.

Good dark red. Clean and fresh aromas of flowers, red berries and herbs. Precise and well-built, with expressive aromas and flavors of red fruit, flowers, and herbs, complicated by a touch of flint. The sleek, long finish conveys a strong floral impression. Much lighter in style than is usual with wines from this estate.

Tasted blind. Concentrated ruby. Subdued yet minerally. On the palate perfectly handled oak, focused, tangy cherry fruit of real depth, and stubborn, chewy tannins. Still embryonic but with lots of stuffing. (WS)