2011 Brancaia Il Blu
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A deep, imposing wine, the 2011 Il Blu reflects the generous, ripe personality of the year. Mocha, black cherries, smoke, menthol and new leather are some of the signatures. The 2011 can be enjoyed with minimal cellaring, although I would prefer to give it a few years in bottle to develop further aromatic complexity. Raspberry jam, wild flowers and rose petal meld into the highly expressive finish. Il Blu, a blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, has long been a personal favorite. This is a strong showing for the year.
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Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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A landmark wine on all levels, the 2011 Il Blu really seems to love the heat of the vintage. Barbara Widmer says that heat spikes followed by intermittent cool spells helped to establish complexity in her wines. Il Blu is 50% Sangiovese, 45% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. The nose is painted in broad strokes of espresso bean, black cherry, baking spice and moist tobacco. The mouthfeel is infinitely soft and supple.
A landmark wine on all levels, the 2011 Il Blu really seems to love the heat of the vintage. Barbara Widmer says that heat spikes followed by intermittent cool spells helped to establish complexity in her wines. Il Blu is 50% Sangiovese, 45% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. The nose is painted in broad strokes of espresso bean, black cherry, baking spice and moist tobacco. The mouthfeel is infinitely soft and supple. Oct 2014, www.robertparker.com