2006 - Brunello di Montalcino, Biondi-Santi

The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino is remarkably harmonious at this young stage, quite a departure at Biondi-Santi. The 2006 shows dazzling richness and integrity in its powerful fruit in a totally captivating, sensual style. This is a beautifully centered, complete Brunello with a bright future ahead of it. The Brunello was fermented in cement and aged for three years in cask. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2036. Importer: Vision Wine & Spirits, Secaucus, NJ; tel. (201) 210-0400 A visit to Il Greppo is always fascinating, as the estate is literally packed with history at every corner. The old casks, some of which date to the late 1800s, the collection of rare bottles and the impeccably clean, traditionally outfitted cellar are all worth a look. I was impressed with the wines I tasted from Biondi-Santi this year. The 2007 Rosso and 2006 Brunello are both far more accessible than the super-austere wines that were common here not too long ago. Importer: Vision Wine & Spirits, Secaucus, NJ; tel. (201) 210-0400

Numbered bottle. This is number 538. 2,500 bottles produced. Deep ruby with orange tinges. Gorgeous spice and cherry nose with minerally hints and a touch of incense. Fantastic depth and complexity. Finely polished tannins and elegant fruit on a long focused finish. Still lots of potential. True breed and spectacularly balanced. (WS) 13.5%