2020 Lisini Brunello di Montalcino

The full-bodied 2020 Lisini Brunello has intense balsamic aromas of camphor and eucalyptus that mingle with violet, dark-skinned berry and dark spice. Bold, high-toned and already delicious even at this primary stage, the firm, enveloping palate delivers crushed raspberry, fleshy Morello cherry, star anise and white pepper before a black tea finish. Tightly woven, close-grained tannins provide the backbone while fresh acidity keeps it lifted. Drink 2029–2035. 95 points

The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is a total pleasure to take in, with its florist shop bouquet of perfumed violet, lavender and wet stone complementing dusty dried strawberries and hints of rhubarb. Zesty and fresh, sporting medium-bodied weight, it sweeps across the palate with tart wild berry fruit and lavender tones, propelled by zesty acidity. The 2020 doesn`t skip a beat, finishing with silty tannins, tinges of licorice and sour citrus and fantastic length. 93+ points

Here is the epitome of 2020’s seductiveness: dark exotic berries are tinged with a scent of juniper, while the palate strikes an arresting fusion of black cherry and lush apricot, with a ferruginous facet. Fulsome without being weighty, it deftly balances sumptuousness with rigour as firm tannins mark their territory. With this vintage, Lisini finally returns to its full lineup of Brunello. It is difficult to imagine the Ugolaia or Riserva bottlings topping this, however we will have to wait until next year see how those wines fare. 95 points