1999 Frescobaldi Brunello di Montalcino Castelgiocondo Riserva

Tight as nails on the nose before it explodes on the palate in a cacophony of cherry, cassis, black plum, tobacco and chocolate. It's like the best cigar and a great red wine rolled into one. Yes, the tannins are hammering and yes, the acidity is forward. But that only means this brilliant Brunello should age for 15 years without batting an eyelash. *Cellar Selection* (MS) Review Date: July 2005