Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio alle Mura Banfi 2015 (750ML)

95 points, Monica Larner, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: “The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio alle Mura sneaks up to full-bodied intensity, but slowly at first. I tasted this wine twice over a 12-hour period, and it took time to open. Dried cassis and berry fruit tones are followed by tar, licorice and rosemary essence. Give it time and this Riserva is an open and accessible expression that underlines intensity, depth and the broad shoulders expected of a Riserva. The fruit is darker and the oak is more prominent, so is the general extraction and richness. This wine draws its fruit from a vineyard with in-house select clones planted in 1982. With 20,000 bottles made, we won't see this wine until April 2021.” 11/20

97 points, James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com: “Lots of dried bark, cinnamon stick, forest floor and earth add to an impression of dried cherries and sandalwood. But there are also hints of caramelized oranges and preserved lemons. The attack on the palate takes immediate effect; the powerful tannins pucker the edges of the mouth with imposing depth, but equally fascinating detail. This is a robust, take-no-hostages style of Brunello with a modern twist of finesse and tension. Drink from 2025.” 09/20

98+ points, Luca Gardini, Gardini Notes: “Thirty months in small barrels followed by fermentation with maceration lasting 12-14 days. A wine of unique character on the nose recalling cherry, bay leaf and caper berries with hints of caramel. The mouthfeel is taut, iodized and balsamic. On the finish, a salty return with excellent persistence.” 11/20