2001 Brunello di Montalcino

The 2001 Brunello di Montalcino, a dark ruby, displays a perfumed nose along with dark fruit and scorched earth nuances on a structured, long frame supported by building tannins. Made in a style that is at once delicate and powerful, today it comes across as backward and austere in its expression. As it sits in the glass it continues to put on considerable weight, but ideally several years of cellaring are called for. Anticipated maturity

Deep red-ruby. Primary aromas of blueberry, graphite, cherry cola and sweet rooty sassafras. High-pitched, tightly wound and concentrated, with vibrant flavors of blackberry, bitter chocolate and spices. Boasts good density and impressive youthful energy, but this is not a particularly lush or sweet style. Finishes with good breadth, a fine dusting of tannins and late notes of leather and marzipan. I'd give this seven or eight years of additional aging.

Dark crimson. Correct mulch-like aromas even if not especially intense. Gentle start on the front palate and then quite notable acidity. Tannins ripe and well hidden. Very slightly rustic but very authentic. (JR)