Montalcino, Italy

From the winemaker: The 1999 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna di Pianrosso is a dark, viscous wine that swirls around the inside of the glass with evident weight and heft. The bouquet is similarly stacked tall with thick renditions of teriyaki sauce, soya, barbecue smoke, crushed granite and chopped herb. Vigna di Pianrosso delivers the proverbial iron first in a velvet glove thanks to its lively, streamlined mouthfeel. Bright acidity keeps the wine on its toes. Decant three hours or more prior to serving. Drink: 2014-2026.

Pair With: meatballs, lasagna, and eggplant parmesan.