Dark and dusty in the glass, the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Ofelio opens slowly with an array of dried flowers and shavings of cedar giving way to rose-tinged strawberries. This sweeps across the palate with a savory blend of red fruits, sage and spice as saline minerals slowly saturate toward the close. It finishes structured and long, with finely etched tannins and a pleasant bitter twang of dark chocolate that lingers as hints of tart cranberry fade. (EG)

Produced since the 2018 vintage, Ofelio is a vineyard selection. It is dedicated to Patrizia’s great uncle who advised and encouraged her when she was establishing her estate in 1990 at the tender age of 20. Youthful and animated, this chimes out with red cherry adorned by cinnamon, spearmint and forest brush. A tangerine citrus note further elevates the palate and cocoa nuances melt into the powdery tannins. These are firm yet pliable. Admirable fruit depth here all underscored by frisky acidity. Carries its weight with ease. (MM)

Dark fruits followed by violets, forest floor, and dried thyme before subtle balsamic, brewed black tea and underlying baking spice notes. Medium-bodied, firm and sturdy tannins with crisp acidity.