Nicolas Belfrage: Quite deep. A bit neutral on nose. Some asperity on palate, tannins rough and acidity adequate, but nothing more. Bitter twist on finish; not for now, but try from 2014. 14

Stephen Brook: Ripe smoky blackberry nose that seems a bit remote from Sangiovese, though it’s probably safely within its aromatic spectrum. Soft lush attack, velvety, concentrated, oaky, spicy, and distinctly tannic. Powerful and decisive, though the texture is a bit cushiony. I’d like to see more cut to penetrate the density of fruit, but on all other counts this is an impressive wine. 17

Andrew Jefford: Deep black-red, only just off opaque. Ample aromatic force: a melange of animal notes and glistening licorice confectionary. These two elements are attractive, yet there is a slightly cardboardy back note that dulls the shine. Intense, deep, textured, with lots of dryish black-fruit force compressed into intensity. Dry herbs, black olives, and more licorice root (without the confectionary sweetness), now complete what is in fact a very impressive palate, mouth-filling and long. There is ample ripeness here, and the generous grip loses itself in fruit flesh. Serious, complete Brunello, with only the slight aromatic query holding it back from an outstanding score. 16