Brunello di Montalcino Ris. DOCG Poggio all'Oro 2010 1.5 L

Only made in the best vintages, this wine represents the pinnacle of Castello Banfi's quality production. The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio All'Oro is a stunning achievement and will serve as a benchmark for this estate's future endeavors. The bouquet delivers both power and elegance with dried cherry, grilled herb and delicate layers of spice. This ensemble is seamless and balanced. The wine makes a statement without speaking in a loud voice and that's what I like best about this Brunello. In the mouth, this young wine offers a fresh fruit presentation that promises to evolve slowly. The solid tannic structure and the wine's fresh acidity will also contribute to its longevity.

Montalcino suffered an important loss this year with the passing of Harry Mariani in early January. The 78-year-old founded Castello Banfi with his brother John Mariani in 1978. That investment by the Mariani brothers would forever change the Montalcino winescape, and would contribute significantly to the explosive growth and overall success of one of the most iconic wine appellations on the planet. This important estate has created two beautiful wines in 2010. The spectacular Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio alle Mura sees fruit sourced from various sites around the perimeter of the castle. This wine is my favorite. The Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio All'Oro comes from a single vineyard located to the north of the castle. This vineyard includes 24 hectares of vines and sees the most extreme fruit selection and the vines are some of the oldest in Castello Banfi's collection. In all, the estate has a total of 2,800 hectares of land between forests and vineyards. With Managing Director Enrico Viglierchio I tasted through barrel samples of Sangiovese from the 2015 representing 14 vineyard sites. No other estate can offer such a wide taste of the Montalcino territory.

Big, ripe black cherry and plum flavors are backed by dusty tannins in this rustic red, which displays power, with the vibrant acidity lending a touch of finesse. Tobacco, leather and iron notes add depth on the finish. Best from 2018 through 2033. 1,650 cases made.