La Brancaia Il BLU (limited)

Romazini: 4/5 Stars

The Winespectator: 90/100 Points

Subtle yet complex aromas of mineral, currant and blackberry. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a caressing finish. Not a big wine, but balanced and refined. Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best after 2009.

Robert Parker: 92/100 Points

The flagship 2005 Il Blu, 50% Sangiovese, 45% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, spent 20 months in French oak. Crushed flowers, raspberries and sweet toasted oak waft from the glass as this beautiful wine reveals its feminine personality. The red fruit turns darker on the palate, where leather and spice overtones add further complexity. Although the 2005 doesn't have the sheer opulence of the 2004, it does offer terrific balance in a smaller-scaled style, with well-integrated tannins, notable persistence and commendable balance. This is a very strong effort from Brancaia. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2020.