Last year, the 2006 Brunellos were released and praised by critics across the board. Antonio Galloni of Robert Parker's Wine Advocate had this to say: "...2006 is a benchmark vintage for Brunello di Montalcino. Readers will not want to miss these fabulous wines." James Suckling, a major, leading reviewer of Brunello di Montalcino echoed the sentiment saying, "...I think 2006 is THE greatest modern vintage for Sangiovese..." Wow.

And now, the 2007 Brunellos are starting to be released, and the critics have spoken - it was another excellent vintage and a great follow-up to the incredible 2006 vintage. Antonio Galloni said, "Vintage 2007 is a more than worthy follow-up to 2006. It's hard to remember two consecutive vintages of this level in Montalcino." James Suckling agreed, "Brunello di Montalcino has never had two consecutive great vintages - but it did in 2007 and 2006, and now they are both on the market?it's never been a better time to buy and drink Brunello..."

Since the 2007s are just arriving, we've had the chance to sample a few of these wines at various price points, and they really are amazing wines that are packed with ripe red fruit, great acidity and a long, lasting finish. But, the best part is the awesome points-to-price ratio that comes with Brunellos. You're looking at wines with scores in the 95+ range that cost anywhere between $45-100. Compare that to other 95+ point wines from Bordeaux, Burgundy or California, and you'll find that most wines in that category are commanding prices in the $200+ dollar range. This makes buying Brunellos look like a bargain!

Here are a few of our favorites that we've enjoyed so far:

2007 Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino (91 points RP, $32.99/btl)
    "Beautiful sweet fruit, amazing balance and a silky finish...just delicious"

2007 Capanna Brunello di Montalcino (94 points JS, $54.99/btl)
    "Dark cherries, blackberries and ripe plums bombard your palate...can this be for real?"

2007 Pian dell'Orino Brunello di Montalcino (97 points RP, $79.99/btl)
    "Incredible floral nose followed by the perfect combo of power and elegance...a real treat."

2007 La Rasina Brunello di Montalcino (95 points JS, $49.99/btl)
    "Massive amounts of fruit that lingers on the palate and just keeps going...Shockingly good."

2007 Stella di Compalto Brunello di Montalcino (94 points RP, $89.99/btl)
    "Don't be fooled by the lighter than normal color, this wine packs a punch...Excellent."

Following James Suckling's statement, now is the perfect time to buy these amazing Brunellos from the 2006 and 2007 vintages. Don't expect the incredible quality of these two vintages to follow suit in the 2008 and 2009 vintages. We are hearing that these vintages won't be anywhere near the quality of the 2006s and 2007s. So, Brunello fans and wine lovers who want to underpay for some great wines, stock up on the '06s and '07s while we have them. They won't last, and it will be three years before another good vintage comes along.

Our Score: 96
Drinkability: A+