2013 Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino

Ripe cherry and walnut with fresh herb undertones and spice. Full body, extremely fine tannins and a silky, textured finish. Very classic and balanced. Beautifully crafted. Drink or hold. Review Date: November 2017

Aromas of ripe plum, blue flower and a whiff of baking spice unfold in the glass. The vibrant elegant palate offers dried Marasca cherry, cranberry, star anise and a hint of toast while fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity provide support. Drink 2021-2028. Review Date: May 2018

Cherry and plum flavors highlight this well-structured red, along with notes of leather, earth and wild herbs. Firms up as the dense tannins come into play on the finish. Best from 2022 through 2037 Review Date: June 2018

Castello Banfi's 2013 Brunello di Montalcino denotes riper and softer fruit than most of its peers in this vintage. This historic estate is located in the southern quadrant of the appellation, where temperatures are a few degrees warmer on average. You don't always taste that difference in ripeness, but for some reason, it comes forward with increased intensity in 2013. Therefore, I am officially recommending this wine to all those Brunello lovers who appreciate a little more volume and softness on those proverbial love handles. If you like 'em lean and mean, go elsewhere. But if you happen to be seated in front of a piping hot beefsteak that was just pulled off the grill, then you should definitely reach for this bottle. Review Date: February 2018