Banfi Brunello di Montalcino Poggio All'Oro Riserva 2016

100 points Luca Gardini: "The search for the maximum expression of the cru in this reading of Banfi, fermentation and maceration in wooden-steel tanks for two weeks, followed by 30 months in small oak barrels. Nose of sour cherry, with officinal touches of marjoram and iodization of Taggiasche olives. The mouthfeel is crisp and taut, with saline tannins and a return to fruity sensations. (Nov 2021)"

97 points James Suckling: "Perfumed with flowers, dark fruits and orange peel on the nose. Full-bodied with firm and integrated tannins that are chewy yet polished and focused. Turns muscular and toned at the end. Better after 2024. (11/1/21)"

96+ points Monica Larner (Wine Advocate): "[$200 list] Here is Castello Banfi's top-shelf wine from an iconic vintage. The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio all'Oro shows a dark ruby or garnet appearance. The wine is impeccably balanced, aromatic and powerful all at the same time. The bouquet presents etched aromas of wild berry fruit and cherry, and there is a good amount of earth, wild rose and grilled herb. The wine is broad and long-lasting on the palate (with 15.5% alcohol) for safekeeping in your cellar. Exactly 15,976 bottles were released. Drink: 2025-2045. (Feb 2022)"

95 points Michaela Morris (Decanter): "Banfi was rewarded for waiting out the 100 millimetres of rain that fell mid-September, harvesting ripe, healthy grapes at the end of the month. With the 2016, the estate has deftly balanced the solid, substantial structure of the Poggio all’Oro site with generosity of fruit and depth of expression. Fresh plum and black cherry gain intrigue from coffee, violet, wet soil and cinnamon notes. A concentrated, dense Brunello that carries its proportions effortlessly, this is a credit to the ongoing work at Banfi. Ageing is in 80% large French oak casks and 20% barriques. It will be released September 2022. Drinking Window: 2025-2040. (Nov 2021)"

94 points Bruce Sanderson (Wine Spectator): "[$200 list] Bright and elegant, evoking cherry, strawberry, floral, iron and spice aromas and flavors, with wild herbs peeking through on the finish. Shows a dense structure that bodes well for the future, and overall this feels balanced. Best from 2025 through 2043. 1,330 cases made, 70 cases imported. (6/30/22)"

94 points Falstaff Guide: "Bright ruby with brightening garnet rim. Intense nose with beautiful matured notes of sour cherries, rum-steeped fruit and prunes, some liquorice in the background. Hearty, dense tannin, unfolds in many layers, ripe fruit also on the palate, fine texture on the finish. (3/17/23)"