The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino blends richness, ripeness, and refinement to create a model of total balance. At first, it's dark, earthy, and herbal; yet with time in the glass, a massive wave of black cherry, raspberry, sage, and a grounding note of undergrowth comes forward. In the mouth, it coats all that it touches in silky, cool-toned textures, giving way to ripe red/black fruits complemented by spiced citrus, as nuances of lavender and tobacco form. While this feels round and pliant throughout, fine-grain tannins slowly saturate, sneaking up and reminding you of just how young 2018 really is today. Hints of baker's chocolate, licorice, and a twang of tart blackberry resonate - wow, does it ever end?

Broad and dense, delivering plum, cherry, leather, tobacco, and earth flavors underlined by assertive tannins, which show a solid grip on the lingering finish. Reveals fruit buried within, so give this some time to integrate more fully. Best from 2026 through 2045. 2,388 cases made, 1,200 cases imported.

A modern slanting wine, the 2018 Brunello Di Montalcino is lush with wooded spices, a smoky cigar box, preserved cherry, sweet tobacco, and dried roses. It is full-bodied on the palate but has a compact structure, with ripe tannins, crunchy fruits, refreshing acidity, and fantastic balance. Notes of fresh sage, dusty earth, and berries are also layered throughout. It has the potential to develop beautifully over the years into a polished leather side. This is a fantastic sunny wine from a more transparent vintage. Drink 2025-2040.