Brunello di Montalcino, Azienda Agricola Caprili 2015

This is a very decadent Brunello with dried stems, charcuterie, bay leaf, Thai basil and earth. Full-bodied and dense, the deeply interlocked layers of dark fruit nearly tripping over the ropey, chewy tannin structure. Drink in 2026.

The Caprili 2015 Brunello di Montalcino offers warm-vintage aromas of dark fruit and dried cherry followed by earthy tones of leather and moist potting soil. This is a classic rendition of Sangiovese that shows the opulence and richness of this sunny vintage, as well as the elegant restraint that you normally associate with the mighty Montalcino growing area. The palate reveals a spot of fruity sweetness, but you also get the savory and spicy elements that come with extended barrel aging. Overall, this is an easy and accessible expression of Brunello for near- and medium-term drinking. Drink 2021-2033.

Initially very powerful on both nose and palate, packed with raspberries, cherries and earthy spices. There are layers of complexity and a very nice mouthfeel - initially slightly more viscous than most but the wine melts into a very elegant back palate with excellent minerality that carries everything through to a mouth-watering finish. A powerhouse, then sophisticated elegance. What is not to like? It will benefit from a few years in the cellar so drink 2022 onwards.