Antinori Pian Delle Vigne Brunello Di Montalcino 1997

The latter part of winter and the beginning of Spring were very mild for the time of year and also very dry. This produced early budding - some 10 days earlier than average. In April the temperature suddenly dropped, causing and arrest in growth of the buds. The Summer was very hot and sunny and this weather continued for the whole of September and for the duration of the harvest, which meant that at the time of picking, the grapes were exceptionally healthy and with a high sugar concentration. Overall the 1997 harvest was somewhat less than expected in terms of quantity - but in terms of quality, this is an exceptional vintage, probably even better than the much acclaimed 1990 vintage and one of the greatest of the last fifty years. Full-structured and velvety, with rich perfumes and hints of flowers, vanilla and chocolate.