The first flight closes with the 2005 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva, a wine from a challenging year marked by heavy rain. Nervy in feel, the 2005 remains somewhat compact. Early mature notes in the bouquet suggest that the 2005 is best enjoyed over the next 7-10 years. This is a rare vintage in which Soldera did not hit his customary level of excellence. From the Riserva-only period (post-2000), 2005 is the only vintage in which Soldera bottled and released his Pegasos, a wine that matured on the early side. -- Antonio Galloni

The 2005 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva emerges from the glass with soft red cherries licorice tobacco and sweet herbs. It is a pretty wine with gorgeous inner perfume and fine overall balance... A visit to Case Basse is one of the great experiences in the world of wine. I spent several hours with Gianfranco Soldera in February going through every cask in the cellar. At their best Soldera-s wines have few peers anywhere in the world. --- Antonio Galloni