选自 http://www.winespectator.com/webfeature/show/id/Tasting-Highlights-More-2001-Brunellos_2933

带有鲜花 浆果 樱桃香气，酒体浓郁，单宁柔和，成熟的樱桃口味。可以存放至2009年之后饮用。

LIVIO SASSETTI Brunello di Montalcino Pertimali 2001     92分     65美金
Floral and berry character, with hints of cherry. Full-bodied, with soft tannins and lots of sweet, ripe cherry flavors. Best after 2009. 700 cases imported. —J.S.

Nature always reduces the grape crop better than man, so the frost in April 2001 was a blessing more than a curse for producers of Brunello, said Lamberto Frescobaldi, who directs the vineyards and wine production for his family company. It's a principal reason why 2001 is such an across-the-board success in Brunello di Montalcino, and a must-buy vintage for lovers of these rich, Sangiovese-based reds.

As I said in an earlier report, there's a fabulous intensity of fruit that begins with the aromas and finishes minutes later on the finish. Many of the 2001s are among the best young Brunellos I can remember tasting in a long time.

In general, the 2001 Brunellos show much more concentration and structure than in years past, which may alarm those who prefer lighter and more refined styles. But it has been a natural evolution in the vineyards and cellars of quality producers in the region. They have cut back yields to increase the concentration in their grapes and they have tweaked their winemaking to make bigger wines.

"Producers are making bigger and richer wines in Montalcino to compete better with the top super Tuscan reds," added Frescobaldi. "They couldn't rest on their laurels."

More and more producers in Montalcino are trying to make the best Brunellos possible. And that's good news for Brunello lovers. Here are two dozen more top-scoring Brunellos to consider. Most need another three or four years of bottle age at this stage, but they certainly aren't going to hurt you if you drink them now. In fact, it's going to be hard not to. Enjoy.