Poggio Il Castellare Poggio Il Castellare Brunello di Montalcino 2018 750ml

This Brunello is well-marked by new oak, adding a vanilla note and wood tannins. Black cherry, blackberry, iron and menthol flavors lay underneath. Dusty tannins line the finish, which is long, finding a nice equilibrium. Best from 2024 through 2038. 5,000 cases made, 3,000 cases imported. (Bruce Sanderson)

Pretty nose of sliced plums, peach pits, lavender, nutmeg and dried spices. Open and fragrant, while firmly structured with chewy, gently woody tannins. Full-bodied with a delicious aftertaste. Try in 2025.

Lots of new wood with some berry and cherry character. Spices, too. Medium body. Fresh finish. Tannic and slightly austere. Needs time to soften and come together. Try after 2024. (James Suckling)

Taut and crisp even, this red is defined by bracing acidity and a dense matrix of refined tannins. Packs a core of cherry and plum fruit shaded by a hint of vanilla, while earth, chalky mineral and menthol notes add depth. Best from 2026 through 2045. 3,166 cases made, 1,666 cases imported.

Made in a decidedly modern slanting style, the 2018 Brunello Di Montalcino is plush, with deep aromas of smoky cedar, vanilla, black cherry liqueur, and pine sap. It is fleshy and full-bodied, with fruit and tannins that continue to expand on the palate, including notes of black plum, lavender, and forest floor. It does have a significant bit of new oak influence, but it is a well-made wine, and given another couple years in bottle, it will be in a great place for drinking over the following 10 or so years.