'94 Banfi Brunello

[ddf68]

Roberto, this Banfi history is all news to me. I agree that bigger is seldom better in the wine biz but, as they say, the proof is in the pudding and this is a solid bottle at a good price. It's by no means the finest expression of Brunello, but stylistically it's true to the appellation-- it's not a fruit bomb, it's not overoaked, it's made from the indigenous varietals--and it sells for a lot less than the stars of the appellation. I generally agree with your crusade against nouveau Italian wines which fail on these points. This one doesn't. The fact that it is relatively forward and not likely to improve for fifteen years doesn't concern me too much. How many other '94 Brunellos are going to do that?

If quality is good and style appropriate I don't see why the producer's heritage or the production levels are grounds for criticism. Unless you're suggesting that they should be avoided because of Summus, Excelsus, Tavernelle, etc? When they start adding Merlot to the blend, I'll stop buying.

ddf

[This message has been edited by ddf68 (edited 08-27-2001).]

[This message has been edited by ddf68 (edited 08-27-2001).]