“Loads of primary fruit showing now, set very much in the essence-zone with cherry compote, violet perfume and blackberry purée. The palate shows good depth and composition, though, a firm layering of tannins carrying darkly spiced fruit long and vivid, thanks to refreshing acidity. Drink now.”

“A decadent and exotic red on the nose with Indian spices, black truffles, plums and fresh leather. Full-bodied, very chewy and deep with polished and poised tannins, giving this wine energy and excitement. Just a baby, but a great wine. Better in 2022, but who can wait?”

“Black cherry, black currant and plum flavors are shaded by leather and tobacco notes in this opulent red. Well-integrated and long, fading gracefully, with accents of iron, leather and earth. Best from 2018 through 2030.”

“Mature black plum, roasted coffee bean, sunbaked earth and vanilla aromas emerge in the glass. The structured concentrated palate offers dried cherry, raspberry jam, espresso and clove alongside fine-grained tannins. A touch of cinnamon closes the finish. Enjoy 2018–2024.”

“The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Millecento sees fruit sourced from a vineyard of that same name that was planted in 1998. The castle that dominates the Castiglion del Bosco property was once an military fortress built to defend Montalcino against its rowdy neighbors in Siena and Florence. This wine is aged in large oak casks for three years. Only 6,000 bottles are made. The bouquet offers enticing tones of spice and dark fruit with rustic garden herb and wild mushroom thrown into the mix. The mouthfeel is extremely polished and fine. This is a very elegant wine that drinks beautifully right now.”