Oak top notes of mocha and dill cede to petrichor, liquorice root, eucalyptus and fennel. Ample and round upfront, though a sturdy structure catches up. Bright acidity gives definition to the dense layers of blackberry and dark currants, then chalky, saline minerals surge as it draws to the close. Referencing the humpbacked shape of the vineyard from which this hails, Schiena d'Asino is Mastrojanni's top bottling - it spends longer in wood to refine its tannins. While not labeled as a Riserva, this is released a year later than its stablemate Brunellos.

Youthful, estery notes dominate the very first sniff, but the wine then opens to reveal a complex,layered profile of schist minerality, smoky woodland and licorice, fresh raspberries and a touch of pepper. Full-bodied with condensed, velvety tannins and almost zesty acidity. A core of riper fruit here, yet in a refined context with pleasant extraction on the finish.

The classy 2020 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Schiena d'Asino is coy and understated in the glass, showing delicate hints of dusty rose, stone dust and dried strawberry. Further swirling brings about notes of clove and spiced orange. It possesses silken textures that are seamless and creamy in feel, with polished red berry fruits complemented by sweet herbal tones and a tinge of citrus. The 2020 finishes with dramatic length, staining and classically structured, tugging at the cheeks with fine tannins as nuances of licorice fade under an air of violet inner florals.

A sapid, salty version, featuring bright cherry, raspberry, plum, iron, earth and tobacco aromas and flavors. Complex and beautifully balanced, with superb length and energy on the resonant finish. Its tannins are present and well-wrought and provide the support for this to age.