Saturated, dark garnet in color and elegant in appearance, the Le Ragnaie 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Fornace makes a terrific first impression that is duly reinforced by the sheer depth and intensity of its aromas. The Fornace personality is svelte, sophisticated and noble. This wine shies back on banal primary aromas of red and purple fruit. Instead, it composes a pretty symphony of spice, balsam herb and camphor ash. The bouquet comes across as fluid and layered. The wine certainly benefits when the bottle is opened a few hours prior. This expression shows a bold, medium-weight texture, but like the other 2015 releases from Le Ragnaie, I notice less pinch or bite from the acidity. This helps the wine to be absolutely approachable now or within the next 10 years. Fruit comes from a vineyard positioned high in the hills of Castelnuovo dell'Abate. Only 3,500 bottles were made, and the wine will go to market in February 2020.

Single vineyard. Tasted blind. Lustrous mid ruby. Soft gingerbread and cherry nose. Succulent cherry fruit and racy acidity popping up on the finish. Coating tannins complement the whole. Generous yet not lacking in energy, and in need of more time. (WS)