Got an email offering from Sam's in Chicago for Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino '97 at $46/bottle. A major producer Brunello at under $50 seems like a good deal and it's got a 94 WS rating.
Any TNs on the '97 Banif BdM?
Ed Rasimus Fighter Pilot (USAF-Ret) "When Thunder Rolled" Smithsonian Institution Press ISBN #1-58834-103-8
From late 2002: Medium-to-full bodied, nice mineral notes on top of berry and cherry fruit. Internationally styled, but not overwhelming oak. Fairly soft and approachable.
My general impression of 1997 Brunelli (I know "i" is incorrect, but even Italian acquaintances do it) is that they are pretty good, in a very forward style. Very good without being as great as WS proclaims.
Banfi's style is a moderately newwave/international style.
I think this would be fine now with considerable decanting, but be best in 3-5 years or so. I don't think this is a wine to drink 20 years after vintage.
YMMV, and my opinions are just that.
Dale
Dale Williams Drop "damnspam" to reply
I have been a big fan of Banfi especially with their recent vintages. At $46 a bottle I think it's a steal (for the '97?!?!). My local wine shop (Long Island, New York) has it listed at $71 and I was excited just that they had it in stock!! I don't think it would be a bad move to pick up a few bottles and lay them down for a few years and look forward to an enjoyable experience. I do agree with the previous poster who stated they would not wait 20 years or so. I think the wine Banfi has been producing is ready within a few years (with some exception to their Poggio All'Oro Riserva) Maybe that's why I like them??
cheers, dr
Thanks for the tip.
I went on line and the price has zoomed up to $47.99 a bottle but I got a couple anyway. :-)
bernie
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