Val di Suga Brunello di Montalcino 2002

Alright, this falls totally outside the parameters of this blog, but it was New Year's Eve and I wanted to remind myself of what life might be like in an ideal world. We got this bottle a year or so ago, at the vineyard, and brought it back with us. It cost 25 Euros there (anywhere from $35 to S50, depending on the fluctuations of the dollar). Given what Brunellos go for in PA, it would certainly cost $100 here. Montalcino is a tiny village South Of Siena, and the Brunello produced there is by general consensus one of the great growths of Italy. The hue of this wine is a deep ruby red, and depth is what it's all about. After a taut entry, it leads to an incredibly full bodied mix of dark fruit flavors, tempered by tannins that are not the least bit harsh, but effectively silky; There is a very considerable complexity of sensations going on here and there is great length in the finish. One should treat oneself this well at least once a year -- you see, people, I can wax unreservedly enthusiastic about a wine.