"This has a complex nose of black plums, cloves and cigar smoke. Lots of chocolate. It's full-bodied with good depth and intensity. Firm but ripe tannins. Chocolate and cherries on the finish. Drink after 2024." 10/20

Cantina di Montalcino is a co-operative which sources from all areas of the Montalcino region. The 2016 Brunello, which was aged for two years in French and Slavonian oak barrels, offers aromatics of black plum compote, smoke, vanilla, violets, and tar. The palate is full-bodied and mouth-coating with blackberry jam, leather, and cocoa. It has richness and depth, with an approachable modern feel. Drink 2021-2030.

The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino from Cantina di Montalcino is a mineral-intense and smoky effort. Crushed cherries and blackberries are offset by notes of sour citrus and hints of animal musk in a rustic yet enjoyable display. The textures are silky in feel, contrasted by tart red fruits, savory spice and nervous acidity. This turns youthfully dry through the finish, leaving a classic feel. The 2016 should mature nicely over the next five to ten years.

Tilled soil, ripe dark-skinned fruit and culinary-spice aromas emerge from the glass. The bracing palate is lean in terms of fruit richness, offering prune, clove and bitter almond notes alongside assertive tannins that lead to a drying finish. Drink after 2023.