Banfi

Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino Sangiovese

9.41 ratings
-no pro ratings
Montalcino, Siena, Tuscany, Italy
Sangiovese
Mushrooms, Manchego & Parmesan, Beef, Venison, White Rice, Potato, Exotic Spices, Baking Spices, Pasta, Herbs, Beans & Peas, Hard Cheese, Pungent Cheese, Chicken, Salami & Prosciutto, Soft Cheese, Duck, Tomato-Based, Pork, Chili & Hot Spicy, Lamb, Turkey, Onion, Shallot, Garlic
Top Notes For
John Eaton

2006 Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino — 94 points

Beautifully mature yet remarkably alive at 20 years. The nose opens with tobacco, balsamic notes, dried fruit and earth, followed by dried flowers, cedar and a lovely hint of eucalyptus. Most impressive is a persistent core of fresh cherry, giving the mature wine real vitality.

The wine changed beautifully with temperature. At 57°F, it became more structured and precise, with pronounced tannins, fresh cherry, dried flowers and cedar. At 60°F, the nose was spectacular, offering the best combination of fruit, floral and tertiary complexity. By 63°F, cedar and eucalyptus became more pronounced while the palate regained roundness, the tartness integrated, and the finish became noticeably longer.

A complex, elegant and beautifully evolved Brunello that retains impressive freshness and varietal character. Ideal around 60–64°F.

2006 Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino — 94 points

Beautifully mature yet remarkably alive at 20 years. The nose opens with tobacco, balsamic notes, dried fruit and earth, followed by dried flowers, cedar and a lovely hint of eucalyptus. Most impressive is a persistent core of fresh cherry, giving the mature wine real vitality.

The wine changed beautifully with temperature. At 57°F, it became more structured and precise, with pronounced tannins, fresh cherry, dried flowers and cedar. At 60°F, the nose was spectacular, offering the best combination of fruit, floral and tertiary complexity. By 63°F, cedar and eucalyptus became more pronounced while the palate regained roundness, the tartness integrated, and the finish became noticeably longer.

A complex, elegant and beautifully evolved Brunello that retains impressive freshness and varietal character. Ideal around 60–64°F.

Aug 27th, 2026