Stephen Brook | The nose has forthright cherry aromas and a hint of menthol, and it’s direct and pungent. Rich and firm, this has density and weight and ample structure. Admirable concentration contributes to its force and energy, but it doesn’t seem extracted or assertive. Perhaps on the burly side, but one accepts a certain ruggedness in Brunello. Long, with good potential. | 93

Andrew Jefford | Deep, glowing garnet red. Blackcurrant and raspberry fruits, here, with hints of lemon thyme and rue behind. Where the garden ends and the forest margin begins: fresh and zesty. Smooth and pure-fruited, very cool and fresh and pristine—early morning between the garden and the forest edge. Quite grippy tannins combine with the cool, fresh acidity to give a frankly zesty mouthful: no one could complain of overripeness here. Yet there’s no underripeness either. Fascinating wine that underscores the diversity of contemporary Brunello. | 92

Michael Palij | Beautiful nose with the telltale red fruit of cool Montalcino including redcurrant, pomegranate, strawberry, plum, and cherry sidling up to baking spice, cedar, and coffee grinds. The fruit powers home in the mouth providing what has often been lacking: a foil for the oak. The concentration in this wine lifts it above many in the field, making it suitable for drinking from 2028 onward. A great effort even in the context of 2016. | 97