The estate's 1999 Brunello di Montalcino is a touch more slender than I would have expected in this vintage. Gorgeous aromas meld into spiced dark fruit, spices, leather and menthol in a pretty style of Sangiovese.

Very spicy and decadent on the nose with a touch of cigar box on the nose. Full bodied with slightly angular tannins and a bit hard.

Shows sweet raspberry and vanilla aromas, with hints of cream. Full-bodied and packed with ripe fruit and new wood, this is starting to come together now. A jammy, fruit-forward wine.—'99 Brunello blind retrospective (2009).

Full medium ruby. Black fruits and sweet oak on the nose; shows an almost liqueur-like ripeness without going over the top. Dense, juicy and tight; a bit unyielding today. Strong torrefaction note of espresso turns to coffee grounds on the firmly tannic, youthfully tough finish. In an awkward stage today, but has the density and sweetness of fruit to reward five or six years of aging.

The 1999 Brunello di Montalcino is advancing fast in terms of its aged aromas. The bouquet offers a large quota of cured beat, juniper and bresaola. Only once you get past those dehydrated, meaty tones do you notice the strongly floral aromas at the back. Pressed rose and perfumed potpourri are on full display. There’s a nice touch of acidity, as well as pure menthol, that helps to break up the thickness of the wine. Open the bottle one or two hours before serving. Drink: 2014-2022.

Deep crimson. Deeply scented. Nicely balanced. Lively. Dry. Real tang. Quite gentle elevage. (JR)