Castello Banfi BANFI BRUNELLO 2019 750ML 2019

A refined and generous Brunello, exhibiting plum, cherry, strawberry and even floral flavors. This strives for elegance, achieving it with harmony and a line of fine-grained tannins on the lingering finish. There's ample fruit midpalate that resonates on the mineral finish, showing fine definition. Best from 2026 through 2040. 66,500 cases made, 7,500 cases imported.

The nose is balanced, yet tense, as the warmth of tar and anise burns beneath sweet, almost flirtatious aromas of vanilla, Luxardo cherry and blood orange peel, with a saline freshness. The palate leans into the fruit and salinity, but a blast of pepper brings more warmth. Tightly coiled tannins mirror and emphasize the wine's overall energetic tension-a great deal for a classic example of Brunello.

A rich red hue, the 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino is a touch shy on opening before revealing aromas of cherry pie, a hint of blue fruit coming through with violets, and anise. Medium to full-bodied, it has a pop of angular texture, chalky tannins, and a clean, lovely, tapered finish. This exceptional wine from Banfi offers a lot of purity and finesse. Drink 2025-2040.