From a cool growing season with above average rain, the Poggio di Sotto 2013 Brunello di Montalcino appears a bit timid and closed at this time. It shows delicate aromas, chalky tannins and a nice evolution; however, it remains on the shy side throughout. You feel the tension and the acidity of the fruit, and indeed, the promise of long cellar-aging potential is apparent. This vintage is very fine and vertical, and in many respects, 2013 is very close to the house style desired at Poggio di Sotto. Only one cask of the 2014 vintage was produced (botte number 14) because that season saw excessive humidity and soggy conditions.

The sultry 2013 Brunello di Montalcino is impossible to ignore, lifting up with a dusty blend of dried strawberry, cedar shavings, worn leather and hints of cured meat. This is round and supple yet bursting with salty mineral tones that add a more tactile feel. Zesty acidity further enlivens its tart wild berry fruit. The 2013 remains structured but is slowly coming around, leaving behind a mouthwatering sensation that balances its youthful tension. It closes with an herbal flourish as inner earth tones fade.

Lustrous mid ruby with orange tinges. Still a tad closed with saline, minerally notes emerging from the glass. Succulent, elegant cherry and still impressively fresh. Super-fine, long tannins following the fruit. (WS)

Mid ruby with orange tinges. Savoury and a little stalky on the nose – reductive. Classy cherry fruit on the palate and for the moment overlayered with the savoury, meaty notes. Beautiful tannins delivering real grip and support, but the whole is still very unsettled and needs more time. (WS) (JR)

Four years in botti. Pale-medium garnet. Toasty and nutty, with some grilled-meat and truffle development. Dried cherry palate, balsamic and grilled meat, with some hazelnut tones. Fairly firm, polished tannins and brisk acidity give structure, with enough depth of fruit. Long, spiced cherry finish. Just a touch of warmth. (TJ)

Rather nice black-cherry notes with long rose-scented aromas on the finish. A little barnyard complexity hints at the earthiness to come. Finely ground tannins that are just about digestible now. (RH)