Not an obvious wine by any stretch, this riserva opens slowly and bashfully to deliver small pulses of cherry, chocolate and smoked bacon that build in intensity and power as the wine gains momentum in the glass. The tannins are present but are soft and firm without any bitter astringency. Age 10 years or more.
— M.L.
(5/1/2012)
San Polo delivers a stellar 2007 Brunello with incredible density, concentration and personality. It starts off soft, smooth and supple until those still-young tannins appear on the close, giving the wine a firm backbone. Black fruit, cherry, rum cake, plum, black pepper and cured meat characterize the bouquet. In all, this is a beautiful ensemble with layers of…
— M.L.
(5/1/2012)
Here is a generous, modern and bold expression of Sangiovese Grosso whose soft layers of chocolate and dark cherry fruit help soften the natural acidity and structure of the 2006 vintage. A polished mineral note adds attractive definition on the finish. Tight and very firm; age this wine 10–20 years.
— M.L.
(5/1/2012)
Artist Sandro Chia and his team have delivered a lush, modern, approachable and opulent riserva with aromas of spice, ripe fruit, chocolate fudge and red cherry. This is a round and supple wine, with a soft, generous mouthfeel backed by firm structure and bright acidity.
— M.L.
(5/1/2012)
A beautifully composed and well-constructed Brunello, with bright berry tones of cassis and cherry backed by ethereal notes of root beer and eucalyptus. The wine shows a clean, crisp and structured sensation in the mouth—with a touch of bitter almond on the close—that revives and refreshes the palate.
— M.L.
(5/1/2012)
From an all-female winery, this riserva opens with a deep garnet color. Black espresso bean, vanilla pod, toasted chestnut and dark, brooding fruit characterize the bouquet. It is bright and crisp in the mouth, with a sharply defined edge and polished tannins.
— M.L.
(5/1/2012)
A pretty and lusciously layered Brunello with dark fruit, spice, leather, tobacco and rum cake aromas. The wine is dense and chewy, with a tight, velvety feel. Dark fruit and spice push the wine across the palate, and both the acidity and tannins are softer than in other 2006 riservas.
— M.L.
(5/1/2012)
Poggio Nardone’s 2006 riserva is a neverending journey of opulence and excellence. Everything is delivered in supersized intensity—the cherry, chocolate, spice, cola, cassis, leather and cedar. The mouthfeel is soft, finely textured, shapely and long-lasting. This is a beautiful wine that will age many years to come.
— M.L.
(5/1/2012)