Deep, dark and almost animalistic in nature, the 1997 Montefalco Sagrantino 25 Anni boasts a rich ruby hue in the glass without any bricking at the rim. Balsamic spice, dried black cherries, leather, minty herbs and hints of mocha form its beguiling bouquet. Its textures are velvety-smooth, yet the wine is surprisingly lifted with tart berries and sweet inner herbal tones, as silty tannins slowly saturate toward the close. While still lightly structured, which I believe the 1997 always will be, the finale remains completely pleasurable and long, with a mentholated freshness and a bitter hint of espresso that lingers. -- Eric Guido

(JR 18/20 points) This is a VERY big step up from the Montefalco Rosso and astonishingly mellow for a wine made from such a tannic grape. There's richness on the beginning of the palate and then a sort fireworks explosion of flavour which carries on right to the end of the tasting experience. Highly recommended for current drinking.