Castello Banfi, Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy, 2006

An integral part of an established tradition that’s enduring and continues to fascinate with its solid technique and nobility of spirit, Brunello di Montalcino shows classic rhythm and balance. With its youthful aromas, herb and vanilla undertones and vivid cherry fruit, the powerful shoulders of this Italian red unwind gradually and aerodynamically to show gamey, leathery characters of evolution – a fine effort from Castello Banfi displaying the Olympic virtues of straight spine and gyroscopic stability.