This beautiful Il Blu delivers ripe plum, blackberry and black currant fruit, with woodsy, spice and leather elements adding detail. Firmly structured, this borders on racy, super long and complex. The standout in this vertical. Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.—Brancaia Il Blu Non-blind Retrospective (January 2022). Drink now through 2038. — BS

The 2006 Il Blu (50% Sangiovese 45% Merlot 5% Cabernet Sauvignon) is a striking wine loaded with vibrant dark cherries violets sweet spices and French oak in a powerful structured style. Naturally the Blu doesn't show the warmth of the Ilatraia but it does possess a touch more freshness and finesse attributes which will allow the wine to age gracefully over the coming years. Once again Brancaia has produced a gem in the Blu. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2026.This is another highly succesful line-up from Brancaia particularly at the top end of the range.

Brancaia's flagship wine is a lovely expression from Tuscany that stands apart thanks to the precision and sharp focus of its aromas. The wine (Sangiovese Merlot and some Cabernet) is intense persistent and boasts careful harmony especially in the mouth where it delivers delicate fruit nuances carried over by firm tannins and an extra-long finish. - M.L.