Siro Pacenti Brunello 2007

This estate began making a limited-production Brunello in the late 1980s from 5 acres of vines. Today, with nearly 50 acres of Sangiovese grapes, winemaker Giancarlo Pacenti has increased production of his top Brunello without affecting quality. Pacenti uses grapes from two estate-owned vineyards. He feels that one adds a full, ripe dimension to his wine, while the other adds a full, ripe dimension to his wine, while the other adds power and mineral character.

A stunningly complete, cool-as-can-be modern wine with great color, lush plum and berry fruit, and very little of the earth and leather notes that some Brunello-istas may be seeking. However, if you like texture, sublime flavors of chocolate and charcoal, and perfectly integrated oak, this is for you. Consider drinking in 2005 or 2006.

Good medium ruby. Slightly high-toned aromas of dark berries, nuts and menthol. Dense, thick and powerful, with a lovely penetrating sweetness. Still a bit dominated by its structure and showing limited complexity today. Finishes with big tannins that are chewy, lush and sweet. I'd give this one six years in the cellar, at which point it may well merit an even higher score.

Opaque garnet with blackish tones. Inviting, multidimensional aromas of cinnamon, black pepper, glove leather and chestnut puree. Intense flavors of blackberry, mint and marzipan. A dense, concentrated wine, with substantial extract and full tannic thrust. At once juicy and plush, with lovely spice components emerging on the long finish.

Like finely woven silk. Incredible texture to this subtle and complex red, with black licorice, mineral and blackberry. Full-bodied and thick, yet reserved and refined. Very classy. Giancarlo Pacento is a master winemaker. Best after 2004.

Giancarlo Pacenti is widely considered to be one of the finest owner-winemakers in the Brunello region. Like many producers here, he owns two Brunello vineyards in the Montalcino area, totaling nearly 50 acres. Pacenti believes that his 17 acres in the cooler, northern part of the area provide aromas and elegance, whereas his 32 acres farther south give the wine its structure, power and fine tannins.

Pure fruit here with lot of currant and berry. Full-bodied, with loads of fruit and velvety tannins. Long and delicious. Needs time. Best after 2009.