An outstanding surprise, the 2010 Brunello di Montalcino is a monumental wine. The Rennina single vineyard is said to be more feminine compared to the bolder fruit sourced in the nearby Sugarille cru. But in the 2010 vintage, you definitely get a compelling sense of power, density and extraction. What distinguishes the wine is the delicate mineral signature that appears through the thick texture of the fruit. It's like background music that gives cozy ambiance to an elaborately furnished ballroom. I consider the 2010 Rennina a masterpiece and, again, I just don't know how Angelo Gaja does it. He is the winemaker with the Midas touch. Truth be told, the wine does lack territory-driven typicity. But it's just so darn good, it hardly matters. It will continue its evolution for 10-20 years. Congratulations. - Monica Larner

The core of cherry and plum flavors is shaded by vanilla and tar in this fluid, vibrant red. Shows finesse overall and the oak should become more integrated as this ages. Cellar for a year or two. Best from 2018 through 2030. 2,000 cases made. –BS