The 2014 Brunello di Montalcino is made according to classic winemaking tradition. The fruit is fermented in stainless steel and later aged in barrel (made with both Slavonian and Allier oak) for 30 months. The bouquet is bright and layered with all kinds of smaller berry fruit followed by plum, spice and toasted nut. In no small feat, this wine avoids feeling too light or thin. It is a mid-weight effort with good power and structure to push it forward over the palate. Production is capped at 20,000 bottles. This is a very successful interpretation of a difficult vintage.- ML

A rich, muscular style, featuring a core of pure cherry alongside strawberry, floral and black pepper flavors. Dense, with tight tannins that leave a burr on the finish. Best from 2022 through 2038. 1,700 cases made, 415 cases imported. — BS

Riccardo Talenti estimates that he made approximately 45% less Brunello in 2014. After selecting only the best bunches, he shortened the maceration time and fermented at lower temperatures in order to control the extraction. He also reduced maturation length in wood to 26 months. The result has a nose of fragrant garden herbs, which mingle with exotic floral scents. It's a well-defined wine demonstrating wonderful purity, with tannins that build toward the end of the palate and will need some time to integrate and soften. The finish lingers with mint nuances.