94+ The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino shows ethereal tones of licorice, dried cherry and pressed violets from the outset. These are quintessential Sangiovese aromas that ground this wine to an impressive sense of varietal pureness. Its ace card is elegance and this is especially well played in the 2010 vintage. Another quality of the wine is the beautifully delicate way it evolves in the glass to deliver slow moving tones of licorice, cola and grilled herb. This Brunello shows a medium build followed by very long persistence. You don't get power or muscle here, instead you get elegance and finesse. It should be great to see how this wine evolves over the next 10-15 years. - Monica Larner