The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna Montosoli captivates and pulls you close with its bouquet of dried citrus peels, sour cherry, rose, crushed rocks and hints of animal musk. This dark beauty continues to impress on the palate, where the silkiest of textures washes across the senses, delivering ripe red berries complemented by vibrant acidity and saline-mineral tones. Energy remains high throughout the finale, where sweet tannins create a classically dry foundation under an air of licorice, violet florals and hints of tobacco. Casanuova delle Cerbaie nailed it with their totally classic 2016 Riserva. Well done.

Pressed rose petal, woodland berries, new leather and sun-warmed hay are just some of the aromas you'll find on this beautiful wine. Full-bodied and enveloping, the elegant palate features dried cherry, strawberry compote, licorice and crushed mint framed in polished tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Drink through 2031.

The Casanuova delle Cerbaie 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna Montosoli is soft and subdued in personality. It shows a clean and streamlined delivery with classic Sangiovese aromas of wild cherry, blue flower and earth. In all, this Riserva is a bit thinner than I would expect of the Riserva category, but it does offer good length and silky tannins.