1999 Il Palazzone

I experienced this amazing Brunello di Montalcino (which, unfortunately is not imported for retail sale in the U.S. or so says this), along with numerous other wines (from Opus One, which was like velvet but still overrated, to a 1992 Stags Leap Winery Cabernet (amazingly complex and very well balanced), 1999 Heitz Bella Oaks Cabernet (nice, but not my favorite), 2002 Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet (wonderful year and proof of Beringer's ongoing ability to produce top notch Cabernet capable of aging; their chardonnay, not so much), 2005 Etude Deer Camp Pinot Noir (blows their standard Carneros Pinot Noir OUT of the water), 2006 Elderton Command Shiraz (powerful, opulent, fruit forward, and possesses a complexity that shines), Perrier Jouet Fleur De Champagne (mmmmm, tasty), Krug's Grand Cuvee (After tasting this, I no longer wonder how Krug has the ability to sell a bottle of champagne for $$$$), complex and one that I repeatedly had to "taste") last night during an extravagant wine tasting event sponsored by the Boston Seaport Morton's. The event was stellar and the networking opportunities numerous; not to mention the great food and a silent auction, benefiting the Make A Wish Foundation and consisting of a Primat (27 Liters) of 2005 Charles Krug Vintage Selection and a private cocktail reception for 40. I'm currently drinking the remainder of this day-old Brunello which has had the chance to really open up. Aromas of wet earth, subtle red fruit, and flowers. Flavors of ripe, yet subdued strawberries, earth, and cherries, with a long, smooth finish. As I remember from yesterday, I didn't enjoy this Brunello as much as I did tonight. My favorite Brunello so far has been the 2001 Capanna Riserva.