From 1981–2000 this was a single vineyard wine, but then the vineyard was replanted. So since the 2001 vintage this has been a super-selection of the best Sangiovese. Smooth, pure, elegant dark fruits nose is a little closed, with some brooding, slightly tarry notes and a bit of oak. The palate is concentrated and smooth with dense, pure blackberry and black cherry fruit supported by firm structure. Quite serious and tannic with lovely purity of fruit.

The 2005 vintage is remembered as a warm one, but in truth, it saw a very cold and snowy winter with brief, but intense, heat spikes during the hottest months of summer. In conclusion, 2005 was a vintage of extremes (a trend due to climate change that continues in more frequent intervals as we move forward in time). The resulting 2005 Flaccianello della Pieve is solid and sturdy as a result, with a tight bouquet characterized by dark plum, dried blackberry, smoke, tar, licorice and crushed granite. In truth, the aromas are slow to open at first, and when they finally do, they appear in quickly contained pulses. This gives the wine an air of seductive mystery or of the unexpected. The mouthfeel is rich and generous followed by a tight tannic backbone. - Monica Larner

This is developing quickly, with mature elements of leather, cedar, wild herbs and porcini. Light in style, with well proportioned tannins supporting spice and cherry flavors. Fine length.—Non-blind Flaccianello vertical (July 2014). Drink now through 2025. 3,000 cases made. –BS