Brunello di Montalcino, Tenuta Il Poggione 2010

The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino is a stunning creation from an iconic vintage. Sangiovese specifically requires the perfect growing conditions to show its magic, and this vintage delivers those special qualities in troves. You are aware of the deep inner power and integrity of the fruit, yet the wine opens softly on the bouquet with elegance and grace. This bottle shows stunning complexity with a bouquet that peels back to reveal dark cherry, spice, balsam herb and dried violets. The mouthfeel has yielded to a greater sense of inner softness and mellowness since I last tasted this gorgeous wine upon its commercial release. Drink 2017-2035.

Rich, with excellent density, ripe cherry and plum fruit, and a well-integrated structure. Licorice, earth and tobacco notes add depth while this cruises to a long, tobacco- and mineral-tinged finish. Shows balance and grip. Best from 2018 through 2033

The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino is a striking wine that shows uncompromising varietal pureness, albeit in a most concentrated and elaborate form. This is what great Sangiovese is all about. There's so much happening on the nose and the wine brings you to cherry, spice, licorice, cured meat, pressed rose and grilled meat in equal measure. No one element overpowers the next. The mouthfeel is also tight and bright with the kind of fruit intensity that promises long cellar aging. This Brunello is only at the beginning of a long road ahead. The longer the wine stays in the glass, the more it offers in terms of complexity and intensity. This is a true standout that can be enjoyed for up to 20 years ahead. Drink: 2017 - 2035

Fabrizio Bindocci and his son Alessandro are the most accomplished father-son winemaking team I can think of today in Italy. Il Poggione is owned by Leopoldo and Livia Franceschi, but the phenomenal Bindocci duo are very much in the limelight. They excel in every aspect of winemaking, from vineyard management to wine marketing. Never have I encountered a Il Poggione Brunello as beautiful as the one released this year. This is one of the highest expression of Sangiovese you will ever taste.