2015 Casanova di Neri - Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto

The Castello Banfi 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Poggio alle Mura offers a distinct identity that is recognized by the natural thickness and density of the wine. Warm vintage conditions in 2015 that favor more concentrated fruit make this even more apparent. However, the palate is relatively mild mannered and tight. Black fruit, plum and blackberry roll off the tongue. Those fruity tones are followed by dark spice, balsam herb and a touch of savory barbecue spice. Unlike the classic Brunello from Castello Banfi, the Poggio alle Mura sees more contact with French barrique. Only 40% of the total is aged in botte, and 60% goes into smaller French barrels. The wine was bottled in April 2019 and will be released one year later in April 2020. Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (95)

Lots of exuberant ripe berries and a hint of blackberry leaf and hay. Fruit-forward and delicious with expansive tannins and lots of ripeness. Full-bodied and round, but there's some tannin bite on the finish. Drink in 2022. James Suckling - James Suckling (93)