Banfi Poggio all'Oro Brunello di Montalcino 2010

A riserva with so much structure and tension. A full body that shows dried fruit and mushroom flavors. Walnut soil, too. So long and powerful. A glorious wine. Wine for the long term.

Only made in the best vintages, this wine represents the pinnacle of Castello Banfi's quality production. The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio All'Oro is a stunning achievement and will serve as a benchmark for this estate's future endeavors. The bouquet delivers both power and elegance with dried cherry, grilled herb and delicate layers of spice. This ensemble is seamless and balanced. The wine makes a statement without speaking in a loud voice and that's what I like best about this Brunello. In the mouth, this young wine offers a fresh fruit presentation that promises to evolve slowly. The solid tannic structure and the wine's fresh acidity will also contribute to its longevity.

This slowly opens in the glass to reveal aromas of espresso, dark spice, menthol and ripe black-skinned fruit. On the firmly structured palate, integrated, close-grained tannins frame mature black cherry, licorice, clove and grilled herb. Give it time to unwind and fully develop. Drink 2022–2035.

After a late and rainy start, 2010 progressed cool yet dry giving a long, slow ripening period. Fermented in Banfi’s new cone casks – a hybrid of stainless steel and wood, this vintage also marks the beginning of a shift to an increased proportion of large French oak casks for aging. It is evolving at a leisurely pace. Expressing the floral side of Sangiovese, aromas favour violet, licorice and mint blossoms. Weightiness is countered by brisk acidity. Overall, there is more finesse to the tannins than earlier vintages though they are ample and decidedly dry on the finish.

Big, ripe black cherry and plum flavors are backed by dusty tannins in this rustic red, which displays power, with the vibrant acidity lending a touch of finesse. Tobacco, leather and iron notes add depth on the finish.