2001 Lazzeretti Brunello di Montalcino

As you can see from the picture, this brings a smile to my face. However, the grading scale gets way more difficult with wine over $50 per bottle. This Brunello is outstanding. Complex nose with a dark ruby core, then a deep sensuous delicious attack and very persistent long finish. There's some earth, pine, raspberry, and very fine tannins. This is an excellent pairing with pasta, steak, or just about anything that calls for red wine. It is hearty, subtle, and has all the stuff you would expect from a great wine. The only downside is that it does not give me chills. I can think of things other than this wine when I drink it. At this price, for a top grade, this is what is required. This wine is delicious, and I would never turn down a glass.

I paid $70 at auction.

Grade: B+