Stephen Brook | Very ripe nose, with some blackcurrant, as well as cherry aromas, and thus a slight lack of typicity. But there’s generous black fruits here, and lush, ripe tannins that at present dominate the mid-palate and give a slight tarriness. Perhaps it’s a touch obvious and lacks some Sangiovese austerity, but it’s an impressive and structured wine that should age well. Long, chocolaty finish. | 92

Andrew Jefford | Another dark, alluring wine: translucent black-red. Bright currants and fragrant plums: all very sunlit. Almost a touch of tar, and some of Chianti’s warm laurel, which one rarely glimpses in Montalcino. Vivid, structured, refined, with almost apothecary notes bringing complexity to the tight-woven, warmly curranty fruits. The acidity is a little more discreet than for many, yet the tannins bring perfect balance. A year or two more will see the wine relax, but in either case this is definitely a wine for hearty dishes and the cold of winter. Yet more outstanding quality. The aromas were very enticing, but the close-drawn palate says “wait.” Grand stuff. | 93

Michael Palij | Clean, attractive, slightly simple nose, showing red cherry, plum, pomegranate, and coffee grinds. The fruit character is bright and lifted, leading to a finish that has firm tannins and showcases the red fruit. Polyphenols dominate the finish, however, and that drying character precludes a higher score. | 93