2006 - Brunello di Montalcino Madonna Grazie, Marroneto

Darkly alluring, the 2006 Brunello di Montalcino Madonna delle Grazie reminds me of a country candle and spice shop, with an array of cloves, allspice, cinnamon and dried flowers complicating musky red currants. Its acidity stands out upon the first sip, cooling, lifting and energizing, with a burst of tart wild berries that come to the fore, while sour citrus adds contrast. The 2006 leaves the mouth watering for more, despite its lingering tannic heft, as a saturation of primary fruits remains and a balsamic flourish slowly fades. This is still an adolescent, all elbows and knees, yet positioned for greatness.