5-Grappoli Wines Bibenda

"The dynamic vintage produced rich and structured wines, with each of the grape varieties expressing their particular qualities. We got a classic Ornellaia, combining sunny ripeness with elegance in a wine defined by harmony and proportion."Axel Heinz, Gutsdirektor

"As usual, the intense ruby red Ornellaia 2020 reveals notes of ripe berry fruits and light hints of vanilla and sweet tobacco on the nose. The wine has a velvety soft texture and a pleasant, enveloping mouthfeel that invites a second sip. Its dense yet elegant tannin structure carries the tasty, beautifully persistent final." Olga Fusari, Oenologist

Pure bouquet of red fruits, mocha, spices, cassis, blood orange and tobacco, very finesse for its youth. In the background, very restrained maquis, white smoke and traces of liquorice. Clear and firm on the palate, only gradually revealing a terrific structure and its perfect proportions, fanning out fruit, tannins and a harmonious acidity. One should not make the mistake of opening it too early, it will gain in elegance and depth with the years. SUPERIORE.DE

"This Ornellaia impresses already in the fragrance with a rather puristic, "luscious" bouquet - again more in the elegant Bordeaux style instead of with "Californian" airs and graces as in the past. At the same time, it remains true to its extremely spicy, ethereal, thoroughly Mediterranean vein, i.e. a typical Ornellaia of the more modern years. The clear fruit varies from red to blueberry, underpinned by a wonderful smoky-tobacco graphite note, with hints of cinnamon and sandalwood behind it. Elegant palate with linear orientation, good depth, rather elegant than concentrated, lots of tobacco spice, still very delicate BSA notes, calm and precise, tightly woven, extremely finely contoured final with firm tannic grip. Impressive finish, totally going for elegance. Bravo!" Weinwisser

"Deep, brilliant crimson. Very lush nose followed by a hedonistic palate that finishes particularly fresh. Ripe but not too ripe fruit - a drier (much less sweet) vintage than usual that should age well. Unusually, there is a residual tannin on the finish. It is certainly possible to drink it now if aerated before serving, but ideally I would keep it for a while. Spicy persistence." Jancis Robinson

"The winery's director, Axel Heinz, described the 2020 as "a classic Ornellaia" and chose the theme "La Proporzione" (proportion) to describe its character. Indeed, the blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot marks a return to a more typical blend after the pendulum swung to 62% Cabernet Sauvignon in 2019 and 51% Merlot in 2018. Fine-grained and beautifully structured, its finely integrated tannins support a concentration of black fruits brightened by red berries. Aromas of black cherry, liquorice, dark chocolate, cedar and damp earth make for a fragrant wine, accompanied by menthol and balsamic notes that permeate the wine and give it plenty of freshness. The finish reveals a stony and salty element, along with chocolaty and woody hints. It is dense and tasty, its ripe fruit combined with freshness and structure cleverly telling the story of this vintage, which ripens earlier. In the mouth it lacks complexity - time will tell - but the variety of flavours gives a hint of what is to come." Decanter

"Inviting aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants, anise, cedar, vanilla and tobacco draw you into this red wine that is smooth and open on the palate. This wine is so well balanced that it is immediately accessible, but also has a little reserve. On the finish, the fruit flavours come to the fore, along with mineral and spicy notes, while the lasting impression is a salty, fiery element." Wine Spectator

"The Ornellaia 2020 is a beautiful, elegant wine. Seamless and wonderfully deep on the palate, the 2020 is super refined from the start. For all its depth, the 2020 retains a great freshness and cut to play off its soft, juicy fruit. Overall, the 2020 seems to be a relatively accessible Ornellaia that drinks well with minimal cellaring. I particularly admire the precision and understated finesse of this wine." Vinous

"An all-encompassing wine that evolves over time, always surprising. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot in a (masterful) blend, blackcurrant jam, eucalyptus, juniper, spicy mouthfeel, mentholated finish, very long." Luca Gardini

"La Proporzione - the proportion - is the honorary title Ornellaia gives to this vintage and perfectly proportioned is also this blend of Merlot with Cabernet (Sauvignon and Franc) and Petit Verdot: Intriguing aromas of stone fruit, spiced up with a delicate odeur of fresh flowers and macchia, also discreet wood; superb construction with a lot of pressure and fullness, the tannin thereby precise and still very young, ends long." Vinum

"This is a beauty, so generous and opulent with completely seamless transitions. The wine's traditional blend is mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with tiny amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, although this warm vintage comes with a pinch less Cabernet Sauvignon. Fruit is selected from 107 hectares of Ornellaia vines, with the winery recently acquiring a further eight hectares next to Guado al Tasso in Castagneto Carducci, with terraces and vines aged between 15 and 28 years. This broad and generous expression has a wonderful quality of fruit and oak that speaks to the best of Italian winemaking." Wine Advocate

"Seductive aromas of pencil and currants with gravel and iodine. Full bodied with bound tannins that are firm and concentrated. Very fresh and energetic with wonderful length and intensity for this vintage. Needs four or five years to develop. Better in 2028 and later." James Suckling

Granato has been an exceptional Teroldego for years: its bouquet is impressive with its rich, balsamic aroma of sour cherries and redcurrants. Rich in extract and intense, powerful and extremely precise on the palate. A great wine that reflects the many years of consistency and expertise of this winemaker. SUPERIORE.DE

"A graceful, enticing red, with aromas of violet, graphite and cigar box spices wafting through flavors of pureed blackberry and mulberry, rooibos tea leaf, plum skin and pomegranate seed. Long and supple, with seamless integration of the fine, lightly chalky tannins and bright acidity with the expressive profile. The lasting finish echoes floral and spice details." Wine Spectator

"Dark as night, the 2021 Teroldego Granato smoulders from the glass with an array of crushed ash stones and earthy tones that give way to black raspberry, mentholated herbs and exotic spices. Silky smooth yet full of savoury tension, it sweeps across the palate with tart wild berries and acidic citrus driven by vibrant acidity. The 2021 leaves the senses in primary concentration with a tart blackberry core and edgy tannins that continue to rumble. This particularly intense and tight-knit Granato will pay dividends in the cellar." Vinous

This great wine is only released for sale nine years after the harvest: The slow drying of the fully ripe grapes gives this cru its immense strength and density as well as its extraordinary character with powerful ripeness, fruit fullness, beautiful concentration and great elegance. On the palate, Bertani's Amarone demonstrates freshness, noble lightness and great dynamism. An exciting wine and for decades probably the most classic Amarone - the archetype, so to speak - of the entire appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Complex bouquet characterised by red and blue fruits, wild cherry, also wonderfully floral with violets and rose petals. Grippy and elegant on the palate with a terrificattack thanks to the virile freshness and energy, incredibly mineral and gripping in the mid-palate. A great arc of tension." Weinwisser

"Brilliant ruby colour, sparkling, slightly brightening rim. Very clear and precise, flavours of finely ripened cherry and plum, fine spice. Firm, very fine-meshed tannins, has very good tension, juicy." Falstaff

"The 2013 Amarone della Valpolicella initially shows a generous and exuberant style with all kinds of black fruits, tar, spices and a hint of saltiness. But this vintage is also characterised by a particular strength and power, expressed in firm tannins and a solid structural backbone that is best displayed in cooler vintages like this one. The 2013 offers linear power and determination and will certainly stand up to long bottle ageing." Wine Advocate

"This classic Amarone exudes a robust essence of dark fruit and earthy undertones reminiscent of a rich oak forest and worn leather. On the palate, it reveals a captivating story of ripe cherries, plums and a hint of spice, culminating in a velvety finish that lingers like a timeless song." Wine Enthusiast

"A great, dense core of mixed dried berries, along with notes of caramel and a mix of mild Indian spices, from coriander to mace. Full-bodied with a liqueur-like pearl of fruit running through the long, long finish with ample but well-integrated tannins. Excellent and so fresh." James Suckling

"Tenuta Novare, a blend of Corvina Veronese and Rondinella, matured for 7 years in large Slavonian barrels, followed by a year in the bottle, an example of classicism and moderation. Blackberry plum on the nose, a hint of liquorice powder, then eucalyptus. Salty minerality with a balsamic finish." Luca Gardini

Kurni is an exceptionally opulent wine and consists of one hundred per cent Montepulciano grapes, which are partially dried. This makes Kurni - stylistically speaking - central Italy's answer to high-calibre Amarone. Clearly defined, multi-layered, dark cherries, oriental spices, savoury, balsamic, lush, sweet and voluminous, exploding fruit, refined tannins, an incessant final and and and ... SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep dark purple colour. Initially somewhat restrained on the nose, fine earthy notes, cassis, cigar box, smoke, after a little time on dark chocolate. Opens up with great creaminess and mellowness on the palate, powerful, very complex, yet elegant despite its concentration, very great length, currently still a little young." Falstaff

Flaccianello della Pieve has dispelled all doubts in recent decades and is the result of extremely skilful winemaking and not only for us one of the best single-varietal Sangiovese in central Tuscany. It has always been the result of an ingenious blend of organic grapes from the estate's best plots. The personality of the wine reveals a certain distance and austerity when young, these impressions are reinforced by spicy tones of cigar smoke and earthy leather. Its inner core is dense and richly concentrated with generous blackberry and plum flavours. The velvety tannins are integrated but still youthful and grippy. Like the Vigna del Sorbo, the Flaccianello is not a monumental and particularly opulent wine, but a very special growth that radiates liveliness, energy and lonely class from start to finish. You should definitely give this elegant wine a little more time in the bottle, if you have the patience ... SUPERIORE.DE

"Promising nose of wild berry jam, with a subtle hint of undergrowth and vanilla; youthful, tight-knit tannins, the acidity provides the underpinning, precise evolution, finishing on flavours of black cherries and hot stone. Timelessly elegant Sangiovese, superbly made." Vinum

"Powerful ruby colour with a slight violet hue. Very appealing and intense nose, showing notes of blackberry and mulberry, some orange peel, some milk chocolate and light tobacco in the background. Polished and precise on the palate, with plenty of fine tannins, savoury and a long finish." Falstaff

"A young red with black cherry, flint, matchstick, blackberry and bark aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied with a solid core of fruit and chewy tannins that show a slightly angular mouthfeel in the finish. Needs three or four years to soften." James Suckling

"Featuring a deep well of blackberry, black cherry, violet, mineral and spices on the nose, this red is rich and dense, saturated with dark fruit flavors, yet with a sense of gracefulness. A light dusting of tannins frames the finish, needing a few years to integrate with the other components. Shows the harmony, freshness and depth of the vintage." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Flaccianello della Pieve opens to a medium-dark inky appearance and solid aromas of black fruit and pressed blackberry. The Flaccianello is a touch more accessible at this early stage compared to the Vigna del Sorbo, but both wines are undoubtedly built to withstand ample cellar aging. Flaccianello is the more powerful or the two, and the Vigna del Sorbo is more delicate in comparison. These dueling character traits are especially evident in this classic vintage. This wine also boasts a more generous mouthfeel supported by softly integrated tannins." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Flaccianello della Pieve is another exceptional wine from Fontodi this year. Ripe, silky tannins wrap around a core of dark fruit as the 2021 makes its presence felt from the first taste. Sumptuous, racy and dense, this is just magnificent. As has been the case for some time, Flaccianello is a blend of mostly three parcels throughout the estate but closer to town. " Vinous

Cepparello is one of the great single-varietal Sangiovese classics from central Tuscany. Radiant ruby red. Clean, flawless aroma of red fruits, enlivened by fine pepper accents and delicate mineral nuances. Elegance radiates from the relaxed onset, enveloping palate that delivers a perfectly measured acid framework to a well-integrated tannin to finish long and finesse-rich. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, strong ruby with a light garnet shimmer. The nose is very compact, with dark cherries, lots of blackberries and fine spicy notes. Radiant on the palate, shows lots of ripe red berry fruit, grippy, dense tannin coated with beautiful melting, firm and compact, long final." Falstaff

"Lots of liquorice and fennel seeds with black cherry and a hint of tomato paste. Medium body, round texture and savoury flavours. Nice and fresh on the finish, with subtle flavours." James Suckling

"Fragrant potpourri and medicinal aromas recall the 2006, while the structured palate shows pure, ripe cherry with some damp earth and even an umami hint of mushroom, infused with bright acidity. Vibrant and complex, it's still in its youthful phase but will be great once it's had time to develop." Decanter

"The 2019 Cepparello is very impressive, even though it has just been bottled. Generous and creamy, with its classic medium-bodied structure, the 2019 has so much to offer. Silky tannins wrap around a core of red and purple berry fruit. New leather, spice and a touch of oak meld together effortlessly in the glass. I can't wait to taste it in another 6-12 months or so. The 2019 is shaping up to be an absolute top wine." Vinous

"One of the iconic wines of Tuscany, Isole e Olena 2019 Cepparello is a pure Sangiovese made by the loving hands of a winemaking legend, the great Paolo De Marchi. Indeed, this wine opens a discussion about the future of this famous IGT Toscana, a wine that followed an austere vision and style under De Marchi. It is elegant and rich with delicate aromas of black and purple fruits. It is fermented in oak barrels and aged for 20 months in French barriques, one third of which is in new oak." Wine Advocate

As a result of extensive soil analyses, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three micro-vineyards, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione range now comprises three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo) in addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, all of which are planted 100% with Sangiovese. In close correspondence with their terroir, they differ in structure and flavour and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

CeniPrimo is a single-varietal Sangiovese from soils characterised by a former river course. It is a 6.4 hectare plot that was planted in 1998 with a south-west exposure. This site is located in a valley next to the Arbia river and the soils here are very complex with alluvial soil and clay that contains little organic matter and less limestone. According to our tasting, it appears to be the most nuanced and varied of the three single-vineyard Gran Selezione.

Intense, fresh and bright bouquet of violets and wild spicy notes. Elegant acidity and fine mineral slate traces on the palate. Cherry, blackberry, plum, white pepper and a touch of rosemary lead this perfectly structured wine into a never-ending, multi-layered finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione CeniPrimo 2019 is a very nice wine. The 2019 is bright and translucent, with great energy and has a lot to offer. Sweet floral notes, kirsch, spices, rose petals and French oak are all beautifully emphasised. I really like the energy of this wine." Vinous

"Bold and rich, this has an enticing black cherry and chocolate aroma, with notes of damp earth and potpourri. The dark fruits are ripe and almost sticky in the mouth, lifted by floral top-notes and dried fruit flavours, and finishing with a depth of tapenade and earthiness." Decanter

"Super spicy from the aromas to the finish, this red wine is supple and taut. It offers flavours of strawberries, currants, cherries and earth, peppery spices and a hint of vanilla on the powerful finish. Although delicate, it is not lacking in intensity." Wine Spectator

"Barone Ricasoli has succeeded in emphasising the individual character of each of its Gran Selezione wines. The fruit in this sample comes from sandy and silty soils in the Val d'Arbia at lower altitudes (between 280 and 300 metres above sea level). The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio CeniPrimo 2019 is a structured and concentrated wine with generous layers of dark fruits, spices, earth and candied cherries. CeniPrimo focuses on dark fruits and texture." Wine Advocate

"This wine has an intensely perfumed nose with aromas of lavender, sandalwood, dried cherries, blueberries, crème de cassis, bay leaves, walnuts and stones. Full-bodied with polished, well-integrated tannins and a multi-layered, silky and concentrated core of spiced and herbal fruit. Long. Intense. Already fantastic now, but try it in 2024." James Suckling

Just like its equally famous neighbour Fattoria Petrolo (with its Boggina A), Il Borro can also convince us with a red wine aged in amphorae. Petruna is a single-varietal Sangiovese that is fermented with 12 months of skin contact in hermetically sealed amphorae. The result is surprising, not in the sense of an "interesting" experimental wine, but because the typical character of Sangiovese is fully expressed in freshness, fruit and energy. The bouquet is dominated by cherry and small red berries, plus some orange zest. Its body is of medium weight, which makes it an excellent food companion. Its fresh acidity and a tangle of fine tannins increase the drinking pleasure enormously. We can say that the experiment was successful in an elegant way. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Valdarno di Sopra Petruna Sangiovese in Anfora is fresh and vibrant in the glass, with a wild display of zesty red berries, sweet spice and peppery herbs. On the palate, soft textures are firmed up by brisk acids, ushering in notes of raspberry and cherry, while tugging at the cheeks with grippy tannins, yet still so lively. The finish is medium in length with a salty twang of minerality, as inner florals slowly taper off. This 100% Sangiovese is aged in Anfora and really shows the worth of this revitalized yet ancient technique of winemaking. Very nice." Vinous

"This is another exciting wine from Il Borro that is now back in the Valdarno di Sopra appellation. The 2018 Valdarno di Sopra Sangiovese in Anfora Petruna is the Ferragamo family's amphorae-based wine, created as a way of showcasing the purity and sharpness of Sangiovese from this tiny, new and exciting appellation. This is a wine of character, showing the pure forest berry, bitter almond and earthy aromas that are associated with the grape. You also get some clay and terracotta from the hands-off winemaking process. You could pair this wine with a lasagna rich in cheese, because the acidity of the grape is ever-present to clean your palate." Wine Advocate

"Extremely floral with sweet cherries, as well as flowers and hints of mushrooms. Medium to full body with a lovely, creamy texture that seems so pinot noir-like. But this is sangiovese from a single vineyard, aged in amphora for one year. No wood here. Love the finish." James Suckling

Complex and multi-layered classic from the old master of Nebbiolo from Piedmont. Cedar wood, plum, red fruit, undergrowth and a hint of rose on the nose. Balanced, spicy flavour, firm tannins and a precise, long finish. This muscular monument of a red wine definitely needs a few more years in the bottle, with a little patience it will turn into pure elegance! SUPERIORE.DE

"Fragrant and complex with aromas of ripe wild strawberries, sour cherry, raspberry and blood orange, wonderfully floral with rose petals. Wonderfully juicy on the palate with fine grip and skilfully concentrated red berry fruit; despite the warm, charming vintage, it is very youthful and grippy with almost crunchy fruit, the nobly arranged tannins and gripping, fine acid veins give additional freshness and verve. It seems to me that a change in style is taking place here towards an earlier harvest and more freshness." Weinwisser

"This round red wine shows flavours of cherry, raspberry, minerals, eucalyptus and hay. Balanced, with a good dose of well-integrated tannins that provide support on the lively finish." Wine Spectator

"The Barbaresco 2020 is a very young wine. In most years, the Gaja Barbaresco is quite striking, but the 2020 clearly needs time. It has great fruit intensity. Nowadays, the Gaja wines have less oak influence, which pushes the fruit forward, but also produces a wine that is a little more austere at the beginning." Vinous

"This wine shows the class, beauty and vitality of the noble Nebbiolo grown in the soils of Barbaresco. The wine opens with aromas of ripe cherries, warmed strawberries in sweet spices, fresh herbs and mixed flowers. The palate is lifted and vibrant with a verve that electrifies the palate as flavors of boysenberry, dried blood orange and black tea saunter about alongside well-intergrated tannins, making this wine drinkable now but ready for the cellar." Wine Enthusiast

"So many flavours of fresh rose petals and hibiscus tea. Medium bodied with a crisp and floral character with sliced strawberries and a bright finish. Very appealing with nice structure. Powerful on the finish." James Suckling

"Depth, structure and complexity are the hallmarks of Nebbiolo, and this wine not only offers these characteristics, but also a juicy portion of fresh berry fruit. It is blended from 14 different vineyards throughout the Barbaresco DOCG area with an average vine age of 40 years. Barbaresco is the wine with which the Gaja legacy began in 1859. Aromatic notes of spiced orange peel, an assertive bouquet of dried violet flowers and a hint of dried mint. On the palate, the spicy character of baking chocolate and fennel seed is balanced by an abundance of ripe red berry fruit - notes of strawberries and balsamic, raspberries, fresh mint and dried tobacco. The wine is richly structured, but a stylistic shift in the younger vintages of Barbaresco makes this wine immediately drinkable." Decanter

"Bright ruby-garnet colour, sparkling. Extremely fragrant nose of peach and pomegranate, then fresh plum, appears extremely fresh. Lots of juicy fruit on the palate, opens up with elegant, polished tannins, fine raspberry notes, lingers for a very long time." Falstaff

Angelo Gaja's 2021 Barbaresco is a wine with poise and grace that has a lot to offer. Expressive spicy and floral notes are the first to open up, but what really stands out is the wine's nuance and delineation. The transparency is unmistakable. Sweet red cherries, mint, cinnamon and rose petals develop in the glass and add further nuances. The flavour is balanced and spicy, the tannins firm and the finish precise and long. This muscular monument of a red wine definitely needs a few more years of bottle ageing, with a little patience it will transform into pure elegance. Put simply, the 2021 is one of the best Gaja Barbarescos of recent times. SUPERIORE.DE

"A selection of the best Barbaresco vineyards: Impressive bouquet of red berries and flowers, also balsamic nuances; combines precision and fullness, the long-lasting tannins and the pithy acidity in harmony, straightforward and elegant." Vinum

"Bright ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Very precise nose, opens with notes of fresh plums and raspberries, plus some cinnamon. Juicy and salty on the palate, grippy, savoury tannin, shows good depth, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"A beautiful, elegant and expressive red wine that offers flavours of strawberries, cherries, roses and minerals. Refined tannins and lively acidity give the wine the right support and an overall sense of harmony. The wine becomes beautifully taut and austere, with red fruits and spicy notes in the long aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The aromas of liquorice, minerals, light tar and dark berries such as raspberries are very attractive. It is medium-bodied with a tight and integrated palate with fine tannins that are seamless and invisible. It is long and lively. It needs two to four years to open up. Try it after 2027." James Suckling

Just like its equally famous neighbour Fattoria Petrolo (with its Boggina A), Il Borro can also convince us with a red wine aged in amphorae. Petruna is a single-varietal Sangiovese that is fermented with 12 months of skin contact in hermetically sealed amphorae. The result is surprising, not in the sense of an "interesting" experimental wine, but because the typical character of Sangiovese is fully expressed in freshness, fruit and energy. The bouquet is dominated by cherry and small red berries, with a hint of orange zest. Its body is of medium weight, which makes it an excellent accompaniment to food. Its fresh acidity and a network of fine tannins increase the drinking pleasure enormously. An elegantly successful experiment, we can say. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, light carmine red colour. Intense nose of pomegranate, oranges and fresh cherries, slightly spicy on the finish. Very fresh and juicy on the palate, with well-integrated tannins, mouth-filling and soft, has drinking flow, pleasant finish." Falstaff

"The 2019 Sangiovese Petruna in Anfora is savoury rather than sweet, with a lovely bouquet of fresh roses, wild strawberries and wet stone. The wine is pure and fine, with a light minerality that emphasises the tart fruits of the wild berries. The savoury acids provide an energetic feel. The 2019 is both bold and fresh, enveloping the palate with subtle, grippy tannins and a hint of liquorice. The Petruna in Anfora is so remarkably pretty and, despite its structure, already pleases with its undeniable feminine beauty." Vinous

"The Il Borro 2019 Valdarno di Sopra Sangiovese in Anfora Petruna comes from a vintage that naturally offers more concentrated fruit and a richer drinking style. These results are fleshed out and elegant with lots of dusty mineral shadings from aging in clay vessels. You also get notes of blue flower, cherry and dried mint leaf." Wine Advocate

"Fruity and juicy with cherries and berries, along with some orange zest and citrus. Also spices. Full-bodied, but lively and beautiful. Crisp. Structured." James Suckling

Giacomo Neri's rather new top Brunello was born with the purchase of a very special vineyard. True to the winery's philosophy of producing wines only from the best terroirs around Montalcino, a small 7-hectare parcel with over 45-year-old vines was acquired a few years ago. This was preceded by over 40 years of friendship with the previous owners, with whom Giacomo's father Giovanni Neri planted the vines and nurtured them over the past decades.

Brunello Giovanni Neri exudes all the outstanding qualities of the raw material and the winemaker's craft. Man and nature unite here in perfect precision and harmony. Its balance is exquisite. Strong cherry and blackberry notes are followed by crushed minerals, liquorice, smoke and slightly fragrant cedar wood notes. The wine spreads evenly and powerfully on the palate, and its flavour intensity can be counted on for many minutes. Giovanni Neri Brunello is wonderfully concentrated and rich, but never too heavy or even too dense. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense, bright ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Presents itself with a memorable nose, lots of crisp fruit, blood orange and cherry, some lemon balm. On the palate, fine-meshed tannins that spread out in many layers, builds up over a long time, with very well-developed fruit and a very long finish with full-bodied pressure." Falstaff

"This ripe red wine is bursting with aromas and flavours of plums, cherries, rosehips and minerals, while a light tannin content and lively acidity provide lift. Balanced, pure and long, with a ray of cherry that lingers in the long aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Giovanni Neri showcases a seductive blend of dried cherry, clove, incense, cedar spice box and hints of rosemary in its dramatic bouquet. This possesses a lovely inner sweetness and vividly ripe red and blue fruits. Tactile mineral tones add tension and saturated, edgy tannins settle in toward the close. Classically structured and incredibly long, it leaves the palate reeling. The 2019 is youthfully poised and structured yet remains fresh as rosy inner florals slowly fade." Vinous

"Wow, this wine steals the show. The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Giovanni Neri is a new addition to the Casanova di Neri portfolio in its second year of existence. It is a tribute to Giacomo Neri's father and represents a stylistic shift to the elegant side of Montalcino. The wine shows a very nuanced bouquet with roasted cherry stones, Luxardo syrup and balsamic herbs. Dark slate and stony minerals merge into a very clean and beautiful earthiness. The tannins are slightly sweeter compared to other wines of this vintage, and there are fragrant tones of old rose and lilac. The balance between tannin and fruit is excellent and I can imagine that this wine will age for a long time." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of cherries, flowers and cedar are followed by a full body with plenty of pure and juicy fruit character. Creamy and savoury with an aftertaste of crushed beans and cherries. The Brunello of today is characterised by purity and perfection of the fruit. The best of an outstanding vintage." James Suckling

"A Brunello of tension and balance, a stylistic masterpiece. The nose is multi-faceted, with hints of blackberry, then blood orange and mint. A balsamic, full, dense and compact bouquet with hints of geranium and clementine peel. The flavour combines elegance and texture, with a return of laurel and a strong salty note on the finish." Luca Gardini

Just 3,500 bottles are produced from the oldest vines of the Salco vineyard and are only sold in the best vintages. In the glass, we are delighted by an extremely elegant Sangiovese with a very harmonious texture and very classic, earthy-spicy notes. SUPERIORE.DE

"Cherries and chocolate jump off the nose before earthy aromas take over, from mushrooms to dirt to underbrush and moss. The palate echoes these notes, carrying them through a long mocha-infused finish with rigid, durable tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"The haunting dark and floral 2019 Nobile di Montepulciano Vecchie Viti del Salco combines exotic spices with crushed dried flowers, spiced cherries and ginger nuances. It is extremely silky, with no hard edges in sight. A polished wave of ripe red berries washes over the palate, leaving a hint of minerality and fine tannins. The 2019 is powerful and incredibly long, with a primary concentration that lasts until the long and structured final. Made from 100% Prugnolo Gentile (Sangiovese) from thirty-five year old vines, it's a real stunner." Vinous

Every year, the release of the strictly limited artist's edition of Tenuta dell'Ornellaia is a special treat. Today, too, we are pleased to be able to offer you some copies of the latest and 15th edition "La Proporzione" exclusively as a 0.75l single bottle. The original wooden box with 6 bottles contains only one bottle of this sought-after collector's item.

The artist's edition "Vendemmia d'Artista" has been around since 2006. Since then, renowned artists have been invited every year to decorate a small edition of single and large bottles of the world-famous Bolgheri Superiore. The 15th edition of the Ornellaia Vendemmia d'Arstista is called "La Proporzione" and for estate director Axel Heinz, this title sums up the essence of the vintage, which is characterised by cold and rain as well as long periods of heat:

"The dynamic vintage produced rich and structured wines, with each of the grape varieties expressing their particular qualities. We got a classic Ornellaia, combining sunny ripeness with elegance in a wine defined by harmony and proportion."Axel Heinz, Gutsdirektor

For this edition of Vendemmia d'Artista, American artist Joseph Kosuth has interpreted the character of Ornellaia 2020 "La Proporzione" and created a series of conceptual artworks. Kosuth's interpretation is expressed in a project that evolves from the labels of the 750 ml bottles as well as double magnum and imperial bottles to the site-specific artworks in the winery itself. On the Vendemmia d'Artista label of a 750-ml bottle, each found on a bottle in a case of 6, a quotation from Vitruvius (De architectura 3.1.3) is engraved in English on paper. On the other hand, the etymological family tree of the word "vino" is placed in relief on the bottle of the 100 double magnums.

As every year, the majority of the noble special editions will be auctioned at Sotheby's in autumn to get into the hands of lucky collectors. The proceeds are donated to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation to support the innovative "Mind's Eye" programme. In the meantime, more than two million dollars have been donated to charitable causes since the launch of the Vendemmia d'Artista. An impressive success that gives blind or visually impaired people the opportunity to discover and experience contemporary art.

"As usual, the intense ruby red Ornellaia 2020 reveals notes of ripe berry fruits and light hints of vanilla and sweet tobacco on the nose. The wine has a velvety soft texture and a pleasant, enveloping mouthfeel that invites a second sip. Its dense yet elegant tannin structure carries the tasty, beautifully persistent final." Olga Fusari, Oenologist

Pure bouquet of red fruits, mocha, spices, cassis, blood orange and tobacco, very finesse for its youth. In the background, very restrained maquis, white smoke and traces of liquorice. Clear and firm on the palate, only gradually revealing a terrific structure and its perfect proportions, fanning out fruit, tannins and a harmonious acidity. One should not make the mistake of opening it too early, it will gain in elegance and depth with the years. SUPERIORE.DE

"This Ornellaia impresses already in the fragrance with a rather puristic, "luscious" bouquet - again more in the elegant Bordeaux style instead of with "Californian" airs and graces as in the past. At the same time, it remains true to its extremely spicy, ethereal, thoroughly Mediterranean vein, i.e. a typical Ornellaia of the more modern years. The clear fruit varies from red to blueberry, underpinned by a wonderful smoky-tobacco graphite note, with hints of cinnamon and sandalwood behind it. Elegant palate with linear orientation, good depth, rather elegant than concentrated, lots of tobacco spice, still very delicate BSA notes, calm and precise, tightly woven, extremely finely contoured final with firm tannic grip. Impressive finish, totally going for elegance. Bravo!" Weinwisser

"Deep, brilliant crimson. Very lush nose followed by a hedonistic palate that finishes particularly fresh. Ripe but not too ripe fruit - a drier (much less sweet) vintage than usual that should age well. Unusually, there is a residual tannin on the finish. It is certainly possible to drink it now if aerated before serving, but ideally I would keep it for a while. Spicy persistence." Jancis Robinson

"The winery's director, Axel Heinz, described the 2020 as "a classic Ornellaia" and chose the theme "La Proporzione" (proportion) to describe its character. Indeed, the blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot marks a return to a more typical blend after the pendulum swung to 62% Cabernet Sauvignon in 2019 and 51% Merlot in 2018. Fine-grained and beautifully structured, its finely integrated tannins support a concentration of black fruits brightened by red berries. Aromas of black cherry, liquorice, dark chocolate, cedar and damp earth make for a fragrant wine, accompanied by menthol and balsamic notes that permeate the wine and give it plenty of freshness. The finish reveals a stony and salty element, along with chocolaty and woody hints. It is dense and tasty, its ripe fruit combined with freshness and structure cleverly telling the story of this vintage, which ripens earlier. In the mouth it lacks complexity - time will tell - but the variety of flavours gives a hint of what is to come." Decanter

"Inviting aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants, anise, cedar, vanilla and tobacco draw you into this red wine that is smooth and open on the palate. This wine is so well balanced that it is immediately accessible, but also has a little reserve. On the finish, the fruit flavours come to the fore, along with mineral and spicy notes, while the lasting impression is a salty, fiery element." Wine Spectator

"The Ornellaia 2020 is a beautiful, elegant wine. Seamless and wonderfully deep on the palate, the 2020 is super refined from the start. For all its depth, the 2020 retains a great freshness and cut to play off its soft, juicy fruit. Overall, the 2020 seems to be a relatively accessible Ornellaia that drinks well with minimal cellaring. I particularly admire the precision and understated finesse of this wine." Vinous

"An all-encompassing wine that evolves over time, always surprising. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot in a (masterful) blend, blackcurrant jam, eucalyptus, juniper, spicy mouthfeel, mentholated finish, very long." Luca Gardini

"La Proporzione - the proportion - is the honorary title Ornellaia gives to this vintage and perfectly proportioned is also this blend of Merlot with Cabernet (Sauvignon and Franc) and Petit Verdot: Intriguing aromas of stone fruit, spiced up with a delicate odeur of fresh flowers and macchia, also discreet wood; superb construction with a lot of pressure and fullness, the tannin thereby precise and still very young, ends long." Vinum

"This is a beauty, so generous and opulent with completely seamless transitions. The wine's traditional blend is mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with tiny amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, although this warm vintage comes with a pinch less Cabernet Sauvignon. Fruit is selected from 107 hectares of Ornellaia vines, with the winery recently acquiring a further eight hectares next to Guado al Tasso in Castagneto Carducci, with terraces and vines aged between 15 and 28 years. This broad and generous expression has a wonderful quality of fruit and oak that speaks to the best of Italian winemaking." Wine Advocate

"Seductive aromas of pencil and currants with gravel and iodine. Full bodied with bound tannins that are firm and concentrated. Very fresh and energetic with wonderful length and intensity for this vintage. Needs four or five years to develop. Better in 2028 and later." James Suckling

Fragrant and fresh on the nose with beautiful concentration and complexity. Summery aromas of stone fruit, ripe peach, jasmine and a hint of fragrant beeswax. The racy, slender mouthfeel has a certain density and reveals an elegant hint of gravel and chalk and flavours of white almonds on the finish. Everything is already in its place here, but it will gain in complexity with further bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Straw yellow colour with golden reflections. On the nose, it exudes impressively complex aromas, including apricot and acacia blossom, accompanied by spicy notes and roasted hazelnuts. On the palate, the wine captivates with a true panorama of aromas and flavours, spicy but at the same time full-bodied, with a very long aromatic persistence in the final.
Olga Fusari, Oenologist (bis 2023)

"Bright straw yellow with green nuances. Aromas of apricot, grapefruit and redcurrant, with delicate saline notes. Juicy on the palate, shows presence with lots of crisp fruit, fresh, lemony notes, long-lasting and savoury." Falstaff

"Complex aromas of ripe stone fruit and acacia blossom, but also subtle mint and spice notes; extremely harmonious texture, very well supported by the acidity, lots of exotic fruit with exquisite bitter almond notes on the final." Vinum

"This silky white wine has an almost creamy texture and shows flavours of flowers, peach, sage and mint with a hint of grapefruit pulp. Complex, balanced and long, with a savoury component in the lingering aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Ornellaia Bianco 2021 is now a pure Sauvignon Blanc. This wine plays its best cards in terms of texture. It has broad shoulders and enough texture to support the many creamy citrus and delicately tropical flavours. A hint of crushed stone adds elegance." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Ornellaia Bianco is seductive. I sense a little more textural richness than in previous editions, which I see as a positive. White pear, jasmine, sage, mint, white pepper, peach and apricot fill out the layers. Light tropical accents appear with some aeration, adding a tropical flair that is very attractive. This is impeccably made." Vinous

"Perfumed, exotic, stony and honeyed, it is nonetheless a vertical and focused wine whose structure encompasses rich aromas and flavours of mango, peach, white flowers, orange peel, papaya and passion fruit." Decanter

"This is a dense and concentrated white wine, yet agile and easy to chew. Very beautiful flavours. Full-bodied, with a tension and frame that gives this wine real precision and intensity. Taut on the finish. Already beautiful now, but it will age beautifully. The best white wine ever from here?" James Suckling

From the 2020 vintage, Ornellaia Bianco is a single-varietal Sauvignon Bianco from three selected, small vineyards at Tenuta dell'Ornellaia. It ferments on the lees for 10 months, which gives it freshness, precision and a fine citrus flavour. Delicate golden yellow colour. A cornucopia of light-coloured fruit on the nose, with wonderful mint and citrus notes. Complex, lush and multi-layered on the palate. One of Italy's great white wines, in the style of the house. SUPERIORE.DE

"The intense straw-yellow Ornellaia Bianco 2020 unfolds a bouquet of yellow-fleshed fruit, accompanied by aromas of white flowers and vanilla. A harmonious and complex nuance that delights with every sip. On the palate, the wine reveals a pronounced freshness, but at the same time an elegant creaminess that gives the wine an enveloping, pleasant and long-lasting mouthfeel." Olga Fusari, Oenologist

"A full-bodied white wine reminiscent of a Bordeaux Blanc, with flavours of melon, peach, lemongrass, flowers, spices and green tea. Rich but balanced by lively acidity, with a hint of grapefruit peel bitterness. Excellent balance and length, with subtle use of oak." Wine Spectator

"This wine, which used to contain Viognier, is now 100% Sauvignon Blanc. The 2020 Ornellaia Bianco is quite tropical and generous in personality with immediate flavours of papaya, Golden Delicious apple and crushed stone. The wine is beautifully structured and long-lasting." Wine Advocate

"The nose indulgently blends fruit and herbs, like pineapple sorbet drizzled with basil syrup, with umami undertones of Pecorino cheese and toasted almonds keeping things in elegant balance. On the rich palate, pineapple continues and is joined by lemon curd, but the saltiness of the cheese perseveres to cut through the luxuriousness." Wine Enthusiast

"The Ornellaia Bianco 2020 is a bright, fine, dry white wine. Lime, white flowers, mint and white pepper are all beautifully described in this crisp white. I would give it at least a year or two in the bottle, as the acids are quite aggressive today, or a few hours in a decanter, which will help soften the youthful edges." Vinous

"White flowers, jasmine, peach, apricot, clementine and citrus nuances with a minerality of wet stones. Exciting and ample at the same time, a well-controlled weight of almost oily peach and bitter nectarine fruit with a citrus pineapple and lemon kick and underlying notes of honeysuckle give the florality. Clean with balanced acidity that gives a smooth mouthfeel and adds to the complexity of the whole. Dynamic with a hint of sweetness and tension - lively and appealing." Decanter

The extremely successful "Binomio" joint venture between Fattoria La Valentina and Azienda Agricola Inama is entering a new round. On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the La Valentina winery, a new wine was born, which is only produced in the best vintages and in limited small editions.

2017 was a very hot year and in some areas of the Binomio vineyard, the Montepulciano grapes were extremely concentrated. This gave rise to the idea of making a top selection of the grapes for the first time, because under the good shade of the foliage, they showed a particular flawlessness of flavours and promised an even more concise interpretation of the essence of Binomio. With patience and care, this small and exceptional portion of the fascinating grapes was then selected and the foundation stone was laid for the small "Binomio Collezione" series, which is only produced in the best years. With the first vintage 2017, 3,000 bottles are now available in the hand-picked specialised trade.

Deep, shimmering ruby red colour. Intense bouquet with heavy aromas of redcurrants and sour cherries, accompanied by hints of roasted almonds, gentian violets and a delicate spiciness. On the palate, the wine reveals all its complexity and opulence, framed by tightly woven, well-integrated tannins in a perfect balance between warmth and softness. A deep wine that only reveals itself with some aeration and is proof of the outstanding characteristics of the grape variety and terroir. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep, dark ruby red with an opaque centre. On the nose, preserved cherry, ripe plum, dark chocolate, a hint of nougat, grated wild berries, delicate sealing wax. Very dense on the palate with a creamy texture, almost oily, currently still with a lot of tannin, becomes slightly broad-meshed in the final and remains drying." Falstaff

"Dark and brooding, the 2017 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Binomio Collezione opens with hints of cedar and sweet spices complementing the crushed plums. It flows across the palate with silky textures and masses of ripe red and blue fruits, neatly balanced by a hint of citrus towards the end. Violet candy, lavender and mint can be found as the 2017 finishes powerful and fresh." Vinous

"Floral black fruits on the nose, with notes of black liquorice and pressed flowers. Full-bodied, round and silky on the palate, firm but not chewy, with liquorice fruit and grainy, fruity tannins. Balanced and long. Accessible now, but made to last. Best from 2025 onwards." James Suckling

The spectacular "Vendemmia d'Artista" artists' edition has been running since 2006. Every year, renowned artists are invited to design a small series of individual and large bottles of the world-famous Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore and create an artistic world around this fine wine. It is not a matter of course that we are once again able to offer you some examples of the rare 16th edition of the Ornellaia Vendemmia d'Artista 2021 in the 0.75-litre bottle this year. As usual, this special edition is rare and sought-after, as there is only one bottle of this limited collector's item in each 6-bottle wooden crate.

This year's edition bears the name "La Generosità - Generosity". This is the name Ornellaia has given to the 2021 vintage. The artist Marinella Senatore has imaginatively interpreted this character trait and transformed the pride and dedication of the people who vinify this top wine into impressive art. She says: "I have studied Ornellaia long and hard. Here, the elements of nature such as the sea, wind and stars combine with the energy of the people who work here, and completely new connections are created."

From these observations, she created unique collages that adorn 100 double magnum bottles, among other things. The artist interprets the theme of generosity in the form of artistic representations of the hands of those men and women who passionately pursue their vocation day after day. The symbolism of dance as a further element symbolises a lively community and the strong cohesion of the team.

Once again this year, a large part of the impressive special edition will be auctioned off at Sotheby's to find its way into the hands of lucky collectors. The proceeds will go to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation to support the innovative "Mind's Eye" programme. And for a very good cause, as the programme offers people with visual impairments the opportunity to discover and experience contemporary art without barriers.

Lamberto Frescobaldi, co-owner of the Ornellaia winery, summarises the intention of the work as follows: "The character of 2021 reflects the generosity of the terroir. But the artist's interpretation reveals another level of meaning: the generosity of the terroir enables an ecosystem of which we are all a part."

Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore 2021 is a wine of extreme precision. It offers well-proportioned power and depth with profound layers of black fruit, coffee and liquorice. It captivates with its lustre and polished texture, which merges into great richness, concentration and structure. The finish is enveloping with sweet dark fruits and dark spices that linger for a long time. Ornellaia 2021 is a wonderful, if not perfect, example of the impressive potential of this great Tuscan vintage! SUPERIORE.DE

"The Ornellaia 2021 is the expression of a typical Bolgheri vintage, in which there was no lack of sunny periods without rainfall, resulting in rich and concentrated, but at the same time very expressive and multi-faceted wines. On the nose, typical scents of Mediterranean scrub, aromatic herbs, cypress berries and the classic flavours of blackcurrant and dark fruit, accompanied on the palate by a dense tannic texture that envelops it with precision and finesse. The final is persistent and vibrant, leaving a feeling of aromatic freshness and elegance." Olga Fusari, Oenologist (bis 2023)

"Almost black in the glass. The 2021 Ornellaia is one of the best I have tasted in recent years. The precisely contoured nose is very elegant with highly ripe, dark red cherry fruit, balsamic top notes, pencil lead and Mediterranean herbal spice. Full-bodied and full of finesse on the palate, the super fine sandy tannins lay wonderfully over the clear fruit, showing terrific balance and structure. Rarely experienced with such finesse." Weinwisser

"Enchanting aromas of blackberries, lilac, liquorice and mint, also subtle notes of blood orange; superb structure with lots of character, but also great light-footedness, the fine-grained tannin and acidity in harmony, long finish." Vinum

"Bright, rich ruby colour with a slight violet hue. Very impressive and accessible nose, showing notes of dark currants, dark cherries and fresh plums, as well as spicy macchia herbs. Lots of fine-meshed tannin on the palate, which gives the wine length and polish, dark berries and tobacco, lingers for a long time." Falstaff

"More intense, nuanced crimson than most others. Rich, hedonistic nose. Full and perfumed with many elements, including some mintiness, making up the whole. Strikingly long and rewarding. Good stuff. Already appealing and with an appetising finish." Jancis Robinson

"The Ornellaia 2021 Bolgheri Superiore Ornellaia offers an extra layer of richness, generosity and fullness that makes for a very open and voluptuous Tuscan red wine. You can feel the fruit and the weight of the oak, the extract and the alcohol content of 15 %. All these elements combine to great effect. Black cherries, dark fruits, sweet spices and barbecue smoke emerge from this power. The fruity tannins are young, and this edition of Ornellaia proves worthy of drinking in the medium or long term, especially as it mellows with bottle age." Wine Advocate

"Despite the warm growing season, Ornellaia 2021 feels less dense and muscular than previous vintages. It offers pretty floral and wild herb scents alongside ripe red and black fruit flavours. It's intense, fresh and vertical in character, with fine, ripe, round tannins that seem to be a hallmark of the vintage - it's a beautiful, airy iteration of the Bolgheri benchmark that's already drinking well." Decanter

"An intense red, characterised by lively acidity and framed by dense, ripe tannins that bring out its aromas and flavours of blackcurrants, blackberries, violets and toasted oak. Iron and wild herb accents emerge on the finish. Although expressive at this stage, this youthful version will benefit from time in the bottle." Wine Spectator

"Aromas of blackcurrants, iodine, gravel, hints of mint and sage. Blue fruits. Full-bodied with chewy tannins that open up with air. It is racy and very long. Very tannic and energetic with power and focus. Muscular and very taut. This is the best Ornellaia for the cellar in years." James Suckling

"The Ornellaia 2021 captures all the magic of this sensational vintage on the Tuscan coast. The 2021 is rich, lush and expansive, with tremendous polish, it is pure class. Dark fruits, mocha, espresso, liquorice, plum and dried herbs abound. The tannins are present but also beautifully integrated, as is the French oak. The blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot is very well done." Vinous

As a result of extensive soil research, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three micro-vineyards, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. The range of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione now includes, in addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo), all of which are 100% planted with Sangiovese. They differ in structure and taste in close correspondence with their terroir and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

CeniPrimo is a single-varietal Sangiovese from soils shaped by a former river course. It is a 6.4 hectare site planted in 1998 with southwest exposure. This site is in a valley on the Arbia River, and the soils are very complex at this point with alluvium and clay that is low in organic matter and lower in limestone. From our tasting, it seems to be the most nuanced and diverse of the three single vineyard Gran Selezione.

Intense, fresh and bright bouquet of violets and wild spicy notes. In the drink, an elegant acidity and fine mineral slate traces. Cherry, blackberry, plum, white pepper and a little rosemary lead the perfectly structured drop into a never-ending and multi-layered finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"A complex, concentrated red wine with seductive aromas of cherries, blackcurrants, violets, minerals and spices. Dry and powerful, with a firm, mineral finish. It shows good balance and a long-lasting aftertaste, combining the fruity, mineral and spicy elements." Wine Spectator

"Straightforward fruit and floral aromas, then subtle spice too; the tannins powdery, well underpinned by the acidity, the finish on notes of sun-ripened berries. Pleases with its verve." Vinum

"The CeniPrimo, the lowest of Ricasoli's three crus, comes from a site 300 metres above sea level in the Arbia Valley on river soils. As a result, it is darker and earthier compared to the other two crus, grippier and also with an amazing acidity. There is a hint of creaminess in the background, with notes of earth, pepper and wood. It's very tasty and vertical, with balsamic freshness and beautiful purity, but definitely needs more time to show its best side." Decanter

"The Barone Ricasoli 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio CeniPrimo opens with a medium-dark, saturated appearance and a slightly more concentrated feel, with aromas of cherry liqueur, blackberries, spices and sweet earth. Thanks to the lower-lying vineyards and silty riverbed soils, this wine is a little fruitier and richer in texture. However, this wine also offers a touch of lively freshness on the finish, and that makes a big difference in a warm vintage like this. It remains very balanced throughout." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of firm-to-the-bite cherries with citrus peel. Flowers, like red roses, also come through clearly. Medium to full body, with open-grained tannins that cling like cashmere. Powerful, fresh and lively. Give this wine three to five years to develop." James Suckling

The top wine from the winery of the same name presents itself in an exemplary manner and as a kind of reference for many other so-called Super Tuscans in the region. Deep ruby red in colour with light red reflections. Dark fruit, spices, herbs, some leather and a fine tarry note on the nose. The flavours then unfold powerfully and concentrated on the palate, yet it glides velvety with a wonderfully balanced acid-tannin ratio into a rich, well-proportioned and long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful attack with notes of forest fruits and spices; combines character with elegance, the tannins are fine-grained and interact with the acidity, with a polished final and length." Vinum

"On the nose, sour cherries and blackberries roll around in earth and wild herbs, then spread out on the palate over flavours of vanilla, dark chocolate and espresso. Lively acidity and penetrating spiciness emphasise the earthy saltiness that Il Borro expresses in a unique way. Lush but refined." Wine Enthusiast

"The Il Borro 2019 Il Borro shows very good definition of each of its components. The Syrah brings freshness and lift to the bouquet. The Merlot is aged in botte grande to bring out an authentic taste of the variety with earth and soil. The Cabernet Sauvignon gives firmness and structure. Bigger oak casks are used to help mitigate the alcohol content that, in the case of this wine, comes in at 15%." Wine Advocate

"Fresh and floral with aromas of black cherry and lavender, leading to a medium body with well-integrated tannins that spread nicely across the palate. It becomes silky and beautiful. A hint of smoke and spice at the end. Crisp on the finish." James Suckling

Here comes 1st place in James Suckling's TOP wines 2024: this great wine is only released for sale nine years after the harvest. The slow drying of the fully ripe grapes gives this cru its immense power and density as well as its extraordinary character with powerful ripeness, fruit fullness, beautiful concentration and great elegance. On the palate, Bertani's Amarone demonstrates freshness, noble lightness and great dynamism. An exciting wine and for decades probably the most classic Amarone - the archetype, so to speak - of the entire appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"A vivid ruby color with a garnet tinge and super-restrained nose of licorice, oak bark, smoke, wood, cigar box, leather, dark chocolate, crushed violets and prunes. Freshness and subtlety. Full-bodied and elegant on the palate due to ripe, filigree tannins with long acidity and a toasty, savory aftertaste. One of the great Amarones. Corvina and Rondinella. Ready to drink now, but intended for the long haul." James Suckling