Brunello di Montalcino, Biondi Santi 2010

The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Annata is a real knock-out. Rose petals, mint, sweet spices and flowers are some of the first notes that open up in the glass. Almost indescribably beautiful, the 2010 is a classic, austere Biondi Santi Brunello built to age. Although the 2010 is going to require considerable patience, its pedigree is quite apparent today. The 2010 constantly changes in the glass, revealing different shades of its multi-faceted personality, while the long, saline-infused finish is a thing of real beauty. Drink 2022-2050.

Aromas of currants, fresh herbs and blackberries with hints of wet stones and licorice follow through to a full body, firm tannins and a fresh finish. This is very tight and muscular. Needs at least four to five years to soften. The legend lives.

Vibrant cherry red colour. Strikingly aromatic without being confected, right on the cusp of ripeness: strawberry and raspberry fruit alongside their respective leaves. Some tobacco and spice in the background. Then firm, taut, notably dry in the mouth with its comparatively low alcohol. Poised and noble, built for the long haul with few if any concessions to the modern style. This is conviction winemaking. Drink 2020-2035.

This radiant wine is loaded with finesse, opening with an alluring fragrance of rose, violet and a whiff of pressed powder. The firm, linear palate offers bright cherry, crushed red berry, white pepper and a hint of tobacco alongside a backbone of fine-grained tannins and bright acidity. It’s impeccably balanced but youthfully austere and needs to open up. Drink 2020–2035.

Intense mid ruby. Very tight and closed yet showing depth of fine-perfumed, earthy cherry. Embryonic Sangiovese palate that is Burgundian in stature and weight. Precise and perfectly balanced. Really sleek and fine and with fine powdery tannins, but not ready by far. 13.5% Drink 2018-2036