The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino from is pretty and youthfully compact, slowly blossoming in the glass to reveal hints of dusty black cherry, leather and earth. It's soft and feminine with a perfumed display of fruit. Notes of bright strawberry are offset by a zesty twang of spiced citrus, as round tannins slowly saturate. The finish is quite fresh, tapering off to a note of blackberry and licorice, with only a subtle tug of structure to get in the way. While I don't see this as a wine to enjoy over the long term, it will certainly impress after a short stay in the cellar and for the next five to eight years after.

Subdued aromas suggesting savory spice, leafy underbrush and leather slowly emerge from the glass. The forward, easygoing palate offers baked plum, tobacco and star anise alongside rounded tannins. Drink through 2026.