Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino 2012

95+ points Monica Larner (Wine Advocate): "Il Poggione is a Brunello superstar and a vintage like this reveals every reason why that affirmation is true. From the second the 2012 Brunello di Montalcino pours into the glass, you know you are in for something special. The wine is darkly saturated and rich in appearance. Absent are those slightly amber or browning hues you often get with Sangiovese in a hot vintage. Nor does the wine show flat or tired characteristics. Instead, the quality of fruit is vibrant and rich. This is a healthy, generous and exuberant Brunello with dark density and succulent fruit flavors that are followed by integrated spice and tobacco. The balance is impressive and one thing you get here is fresh acidity. This is not to be underestimated, because the acidity quota in the 2012 vintage across the appellation is not as high or evident as usual. This is one of the year's best Brunellos. Drink: 2017-2030. (Feb 2017)"

94 points International Wine Report: "The 2012 Il Poggione is a gorgeous, age-worthy Brunello which comes from the winery's oldest vineyards, planted between 490-1475 ft above sea level. This results in a beautifully structured Brunello that displays wonderful vibrancy and precision. Pretty aromas leap from the glass, lead by cherries and blueberries, laced with exotic spices, leather, floral and minerals all adding to its complexity. This continues to impress as it shows plenty of finesse along with a silky frame and long, tight gripping finish. Overall, the 2012 is a complete beauty and although it is already offering early appeal, it will require some extended bottle age before it reaches its peak. Best from 2020-2032. (Apr 2017)"

93+ points Ian D'Agata (Vinous): "[$90 list] Good full red. Medicinal red cherry, raspberry, sweet spices and mint on the fresh, precise nose. Bright and sweet, with a penetrating, austere quality to its flavors of red fruits, minerals and medicinal herbs. Harmonious acidity nicely frames the pure, long, youthfully tight finish. Lovely young Brunello that will repay cellaring. Drink: 2025-20388. (Mar 2017)"

93 points Wine Enthusiast: "Ripe plum, tobacco, dark spice and balsamic aromas adorn this invigorating red. Firm and full-bodied, the palate delivers wild cherry, crushed raspberry, star anise and grilled herb flavors with a backbone of youthful, bracing tannins. It's already tempting but give it time to fully come around. Drink 2020–2032. Alcohol 14.5%. (Apr 2017)"

93 points Wine & Spirits: "[$90 list] This wine’s dark cherry flavors take a back seat to its smoky and savory notes of grilled game and firm, ferrous tannins. Bright acidity lifts the finish, providing the freshness that will allow this to age well for at least a decade. (Apr 2018)"

93 points James Suckling: "Walnuts and cedar with plums and hints of milk chocolate. Always subtle. Medium body, a solid core of fruit and medium-chewy tannins. Center palate of cherry fruit. Give it a year or two to soften. (10/30/16)"