2010 - Brunello di Montalcino Filo di Seta, Castello Romitorio

Depicting Capri's Grotta Azzurra on the label, the 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Filo di Seta is an oak-driven expression with elaborate tones of cinnamon, vanilla and roasted coffee bean that wrap thickly around fruity tones of blackberry and blackcurrant. The wine is soft and yielding with a rich embroidery of soft tannins and pulpy fruit extraction. There is that characteristic touch of bright acidity you get with Sangiovese. This pretty Brunello delivers all the qualities needed for medium and long-term drinking. It does need another two or three years of bottle aging however to fully flesh out.

The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Filo di Seta is quite a bit darker and richer through the mid-palate than the straight Brunello. Dark red cherry, spice, plum and leather notes are all quite vibrant in the glass. Racy and voluptuous, yet with plenty of underlying structure, the Filo di Seta impresses for its overall balance. Sweet floral and spiced notes add nuance on the super-expressive finish. This bold, vibrant Brunello will offer another 10-15 years of fine drinking.