Brunello di Montalcino Il Poggione 2016 (750ML)

95 Points, Monica Larner, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: 'The Il Poggione 2016 Brunello di Montalcino opens to a medium-dark appearance with pretty Sangiovese shine and a little ruby sparkle. This vintage shows a slightly untamed or wild side with a dense and heavier fruit profile. The focus here is on blackberry, dried cherry, tobacco, and even a touch of smoky tobacco or horse saddle. The wine shows the firm grip and tannic backbone that is a common trait in this vintage, especially with the vineyards on this southern, sunlit side of the appellation..." 11/20

97 Points, Eric Guido, Vinous: "I’m not sure how Il Poggione manages to remain one of the largest producers of Brunello, maintaining such a high level of quality and turning out some of the best wines of the vintage year after year - but they do. The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino is yet another stunning example. Depths of mineral-encased black cherries, sage, allspice, licorice, tobacco and crushed violets lift up from the glass. It’s seamlessly silky, even as the palate is peppered with tart red and black berries, nervous acids and savory exotic spices. This shows the density and weight of the vintage in a youthfully monolithic stance, yet with all the necessary components to maintain perfect balance. The 2016 Il Poggione seems to fold in upon itself through the finish, which is dark, mysterious and structured, with only hints of black tea and licorice to tempt the imagination. It’s a classic in the making." 11/20

94 Points, James Suckling: "A red with blackberry, cherry, some walnut and chocolate, as well as mahogany. Tea, too. It’s full-bodied and firm-tannined with beautiful length and depth. Linear and very fine. Drink after 2024." 11/20

96 points, Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator: “This Brunello leads with black cherry, black currant and violet aromas, augmented by flavors of iron, tobacco and spice. Dusty tannins emerge on the lingering finish, while the sweet fruit persists. Should be compelling in a decade. Best from 2025 through 2047. 16,700 cases made, 3,000 cases imported.” 03/21

99 Points, Luca Gardini, Gardini Notes: "One of the staples in the appellation for this flawless vintage. On the nose, </br>blackberries and blackcurrants, officinal hints closing on the notes of licorice. Juicy, taut and crunchy mouthfeel. Savoury tannins and stunning persistence." 10/20