Shows the classic 2012 profile of ripe, almost jammy cherry and strawberry fruit, yet has a vibrant personality. Floral, mineral and tobacco notes add depth as this glides to a long, mouthwatering aftertaste. Best from 2021 through 2036. 108 cases made, 5 cases imported. — BS

The 2012 vintage in Montalcino was extremely dry, causing much stress in the southern vineyards. Castelnuovo dell’Abate, however, is one of the best sites in Montalcino, achieving more of a balanced ripeness between sugars and phenolics. Poggio di Sotto shows a bit of chalky dryness on the finish, yet it develops an intriguing feminine raspberry and yellow fruit character, with vibrancy and dense, velvety tannins on the mid-palate, accompanied by refreshing acidity. A completely different style from the highest, more austere Brunellos, yet one of the most elegant.

Poggio di Sotto continues to impress with this stunning new vintage of its top-shelf wine. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva shows volume and power; meanwhile, it brushes past the senses with the delicate flutter of a butterfly. The bouquet is infused with floral tones of red rose and lavender with fruity elements of cassis and wild cherry. You feel the warmth of the vintage specifically on the palate, where the weight and the density of the wine is more evident. There is a point of distinctive sweetness that lasts just for a moment, but that is a reoccurring theme in the 2012 Brunellos, generally speaking.-ML