The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Lago (with 5,000 bottles made) sees fruit sourced from a vineyard site located in the northern part of the appellation. Unlike the Poggio al Granchio expression that is aged in new 300-liter French barrique, this wine is instead aged in large 30- and 50-hectoliter Slavonian oak casks. In theory, this wine sees less oak-exposed surface area and follows a classic or traditional approach to Tuscan winemaking. Stylistically speaking, this Brunello is sharper and glossier with fragrant tones of wild berry and rose hip. The acidity is more pronounced, giving this wine beautifully contoured edges.- ML

Quite reductive at first but opens up quickly with air to reveal orange peel, dried red cherries, cedar and paprika. Medium to full body, fine and silky tannins, beautiful acidity and a medium-chewy finish. A stylish Brunello. Drink now or hold.

Aromas of fragrant blue flower, mature plum, leather and tobacco emerge from the glass. The full-bodied palate offers crushed black raspberry, ripe Marasca cherry, orange zest and baking spice set against a tannic backbone. You'll also feel the warmth of alcohol on the midpalate, but the fruit richness supports it. Drink 2021–2030.

Macerated cherry, plum, licorice, tar and tobacco flavors are the highlights. Taut and linear in profile, with a dense finish. Stays vibrant, revealing echoes of tar and tobacco. Best from 2022 through 2038. 750 cases made, 150 cases imported. — BS