A total pleasure bomb, Poggio di Sotto's 2011 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva races across the palate with layers of intense, perfumed fruit and striking aromatics. Macerated dark cherry, spice, menthol and deeply spiced layers built to the huge, intense finish. The typical Poggio di Sotto volatile acidity is pretty much buried by the sheer density of the fruit. Best of all, the Riserva remains incredibly fresh and saline, which is so remarkable for the year.

This wine floored me. The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a stunning beauty and a wine well worth the attention (if you can afford its lofty pricing aspirations). Thankfully, the beauty of the contents will help alleviate some of the sticker shock. This is a supple and silky expression with an infinite array of Sangiovese-based aromas. You'll recognize wild cassis, forest floor, autumnal leaf, button mushroom, grilled herb, rosemary, balsam herb and red rose petal. The effect is fragrant and delicate. The mouthfeel is equally ethereal and nuanced. With only 3,500 bottles made, not many of us will have the luxury of trying this beautiful wine. And, that is really too bad.

Bright dark red. Captivating aromas of red cherry, flint and violet are complicated by hints of flint. Rich and ripe, with a very generous texture, but with enticing freshness providing an underlying steely element to the red cherry, red berry nectar, forest floor and sweet spice flavors. Very long and smooth on the finish. Unlike most 2011 Riservas that are eminently forgettable, this is one you’ll want in your cellar.