Shows impenetrable depths of dark ruby in the glass, displaying a bouquet of ripe black cherries mixed with tobacco, hints of menthol, tobacco and cedar. Its velvety textures flood the palate with black cherries as penetrating acids cut through its creamy weight, bringing a mix of savory spice and herbal tones, and tannins slowly settle in with each sip. This tapers off long, staining the palate with a mix of black and red fruits, yet it’s firm and intense, as its tannic heft dominates, ending with spicy oak and the slightest whiff of heat.

Wow. The incredible packaging here (with a gold thread around the bottle and a white wax capsule to close) gives you a sense of the importance of this beautiful Sagrantino. I tasted bottle number 567 of only 1,133 made. The 2010 Montefalco Sagrantino Spinning Beauty is very nicely balanced, showing so much care and focus. Dark fruit, leather, tar and baking spice make up the bouquet, while the tannins are softly integrated—and that's the key takeaway here. You get lots of big bold power on the close. You really need a serious steak dinner for this wine.