The Castello Romitorio 2016 Brunello di Montalcino is a classic expression of the vintage, showing lots of ripe fruit, crushed mineral, herbal nuances and varietal-driven purity. This wine nails that sweet spot between elegance and power that is not easily achieved. It offers an expanded array of Sangiovese flavors with wild cherry, forest floor, crushed clove and medicinal herb, but it also shows plump density and a velvety texture. Filippo Chia and his team have created a sold wine for medium or long-term drinking. Production is exactly 58,874 bottles.- ML

Darkly floral and with a mentholated lift, the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino slowly blossoms in the glass with a blend of stone dust, dried cherries, pine shavings and sweet smoke. This is softer and more supple than expected, yet quickly builds with a mineral tension combined with tart wild berry fruits as the slightest trace of tangerine and cedar adds contrast toward the close. The 2016 leaves an enlivening orange tinge through the finish, along with gritty tannins and a slightly chewy sensation, tapering off dramatically long and youthfully tense. The potential here is very high, yet cellaring is still recommended. -- Eric Guido

A core of pure black cherry marks this compressed red, which is fresh and balanced in its rigid way, with wild thyme, rosemary, iron and tobacco flavors. The aftertaste lingers with the fruit and balsamic elements. Best from 2025 through 2048. — B.S.

Renowned Transavantgarde artist, Sandro Chia purchased Castello Romitorio in 1985. Today his son Filippo manages the estate and gives much credit to father and son cellarmasters, Franco and Stefano Martini who have been working on the property for over 30 years. Romitorio’s 2016 is full of youthful energy and exuberance – all wild black cherry, rosemary and cedar. The tannins are silky upfront but have a layering, cumulative effect. Though amply fruited, this remains quite elegant and polished with a refreshing juiciness and an explosion of red plum on the finish.