5-Grappoli Wines Bibenda

Etna Rosso with a light ruby colour and a fine bouquet of raspberries, herbs, orange peel and flint. Firm, straightforward flavour. Mineral notes in keeping with the terroir. Silky tannins and a fresh finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Light red; fresh, red-fruity, raspberry jam, very inviting; red fruit already at the beginning, lots of tannin, subtly tart, very nice wine, long." Merum

"There's a slight hint of farmyard among the pure cherry fruit and orange peel aromas, while in the mouth it's intense and bright with a saline and balsamic character; vertical and sapid. Chalky tannins and fresh acidity provide structure to this sturdy, ageable red." Decanter

"A beautiful blend of red fruits and spices on the nose, along with a hint of tea. Medium to full-bodied with very fine tannins. Creamy. A beautiful depth of fruit carried effortlessly by the elegant tannin structure. Long lasting finish. Delicious. Best after 2025." James Suckling

"The Graci 2020 Etna Rosso Arcurìa is a very different wine to the Feudo di Mezzo. It has more fruit and a spicy character with blackcurrants, tea leaves, tobacco and perhaps a hint of exotic spices. The tannins are more pronounced here and the concentration of the wine is definitely a notch or two higher in terms of intensity. Contrada Arcurìa is located at an altitude of 650 metres above sea level. Only 5,300 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"Dusty and floral, the Etna Rosso Arcuria 2020 opens slowly with hints of chalk dust and sage that fade into violet pastilles and crushed blackberries. This is pure elegance, silky and refined, with a beautiful inner sweetness and cooling acidity that soothes and invigorates the palate. It finishes savoury and tannic with admirable length, with pretty inner flowers and a hint of bitterness slowly fading. It will take years for the Arcuria to come into its full bloom, but it will be time well spent." Vinous

Pleasantly fruity bouquet with fine cherry notes, clearly structured and powerful on the palate with a beautiful finish of herbs and almonds. SUPERIORE.DE

The most famous Müller-Thurgau in Italy from a single vineyard at over 1,000 metres above sea level: sublimely sparkling straw yellow, very precise, clean aroma, a potpourri of tropical fruits, a little chamomile and a hint of nutmeg. Amazingly full-bodied on the palate with lots of juicy fruit. An elegant, extra-dry Müller Thurgau from the highest Müller Thurgau vineyard in Europe with an impressive complexity and length for this grape variety. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright straw yellow, shiny. Great aroma on the nose, fine spice, rich yellow fruit, nutmeg, orange blossom, some pine needles, blood oranges and hazelnuts on the finish. Juicy on the palate, initially taut and elegantly flavoured, with fine salty notes, then breaks down slightly at the back." Falstaff

"The 2021 Feldmarschall von Fenner opens with a minty freshness, while savoury herbs and flint give way to yellow apples and cardamom. Skilfully balanced, it soothes with its supple textures, ripe orchard fruits and salty mineral tones, mixed with hints of lime and sour melon to show contrast. The 2021 rejuvenates with a pleasing length and crispness. The notes of lime and nectarine linger for a long time. This wine is simply stunning today and has the balance to evolve beautifully." Vinous

"This is a wonderfully flavoursome expression of Müller-Thurgau. It is full-bodied with hints of fennel and aniseed in the aromas and flavours of pear, peach and melon. Lively, tangy, fleshy and long." James Suckling

"Inviting white peach, citrus fruits and honey apples with plenty of mineral freshness, a lacy texture and a fine pearl of racy acidity. Fabulously long and concentrated." Decanter

The Fontalloro is a single-varietal Sangiovese that is matured for up to 20 months in new and two-year-old barriques.brilliant ruby colour with a light garnet rim, mineral, woody-fruity aroma of cherry, cedar, blueberry and hazelnut. With aeration, the flavours become increasingly complex and the terroir influence very clear. Compact and very present on the palate with fine-grained tannins and classic proportions. Very high ageing potential and one of the best Sangiovese in central Tuscany every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a delicately brightening rim. On the nose, initially fresh yeast pastries, then juicy cherries, watermelon and redcurrants, minimal alcoholic aftertaste, precious wood. Taut tannins and beautiful acidity on the palate, savoury, then becomes a little more expansive on the finish, albeit juicy." Falstaff

"The Fontalloro 2020 is a sensual, enveloping wine. Dark red fruits, sweet spices, tobacco, cedar and mint are all beautifully pronounced. Fontalloro is a pure Sangiovese from vineyards located between the Chianti Classico and Colli Senesi appellations. The duality is very evident here." Vinous

"Very refined and complex nose with hints of pine cones, botanicals and dark mushrooms to savoury oranges, minerals, fine musk and plums. Juicy, dry but structured on the palate with stacks of dusty tannins developing on the savoury, full-bodied palate. Long and quite mineral on the finish. Better from 2025." James Suckling

"A vibrant red with fleeting aromas of lavender and wild rosemary mingling with flavours of cherry, orange peel, earth, minerals and tobacco. Despite its youthful vigour, it is elegant, with excellent harmony, refined tannins and a long, complex aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Intriguing entry with notes of ripe stone fruit, red berries, sandalwood, undergrowth and fine spice; with aeration a lot of fullness and also pressure, without missing the charm, the tannins fine-grained, the finish very long and with maturity potential." Vinum

"The 2020 Fontalloro, made from a special selection of Sangiovese, is generous and rich, the wine has a medium-dark colour and is concentrated. The winemaking team has succeeded in giving this vintage a particularly elegant side. The wine offers pronounced notes of cherry and wild plum with delicate spice in the background. As with the other wines in this portfolio, there is a beautiful mineral note that runs like a common thread through all of these new releases." Wine Advocate

"100% Sangiovese from two parcels located between Chianti Classico and Chianti Colli Senesi. A wine that shows hints of black cherry, rhubarb and juniper on the nose, with notes of eucalyptus and wild mint. The sip is taut, with spicy tannins. The finish is deep, the aftertaste fruity and balsamic." Luca Gardini

Etna is one of Italy's most fascinating wine regions and Andrea Franchetti is probably the most fanatical producer in this area. Added to this are eighty-year-old indigenous Nerello Mascalese vines. The single vineyard Contrada Porcaria has a thoroughly masculine personality. Darkly scented with ripe fruit and menthol, the palate is predominantly spice and mineral with many other facets. The course and the final are rich, dense and very convincing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant, medium ruby red. Deeper nose than the Contrada C with fragrant, concentrated raspberries and hints of crushed black pepper and stones. A racy acidity permeates the spicy-sweet raspberry fruit. Very firm but polished tannic framework that finishes in a chewy raspberry finish. Firm structure." Jancis Robinson

"A dusty and inviting blend of dried roses and cherries is contrasted by hints of ash and smoke as the 2019 Contrada Porcaria (P) blossoms in the glass. It is undeniably elegant, with a velvety texture that lays over the medium-bodied wine, delivering mineral red berry and sweet herbal tones that arch across the palate. It is lightly textured with grippy tannins that tug at the cheeks, but the mouthfeel leaves you wanting more as the pomegranate and plum notes slowly fade away. The Porcaria vineyard sits at 650 metres above sea level, with soils that Passopisciaro describes as "a fragile layer of lava that shatters underfoot". Give this beauty another year to come into its own." Vinous

"Aromas of Mediterranean scrub, eucalyptus, smoky flint and wild berries mingle with dark spice. On the full-bodied palate, bright acidity lifts raspberry compote, liquorice, slate and blood orange. Taut, polished tannins give grip while the warmth of the alcohol lingers on the finish." Wine Enthusiast

"A tight-knit red wine that, despite its dense tannic framework, has a lush texture thanks to aromas and flavours of steeped black raspberries and cherries, wild sage, singed orange peel and red liquorice. The wine has good tension, focus and freshness, but the fruit and spice palette and smoky minerality will only fully develop with more time in bottle." Wine Spectator

"The Vini Franchetti 2019 Contrada P shows more concentration and fruit weight compared to some of the other wines in this series of single-vineyard wines. Blackcurrant and dried cherry segue to cola, spice and some lingering balsam herb. The tannins are also tighter here, and this wine has more power and extract all around." Wine Advocate

The Fontalloro is a single-varietal Sangiovese that is matured for up to 20 months in new and two-year-old barriques.brilliant ruby colour with a light garnet rim, mineral, woody-fruity aroma of cherry, cedar, blueberry and hazelnut. With aeration, the flavours become increasingly complex and the terroir influence very clear. Compact and very present on the palate with fine-grained tannins and classic proportions. Very high ageing potential and one of the best Sangiovese in central Tuscany every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Noble shimmering ruby red colour. Fresh nose of crisp blueberries and cherries, with notes of precious wood and hints of lilac. Clear and firm on the palate with tightly woven tannins, powerful and juicy with considerable length on the finish." Falstaff

"Aromas of raspberries, herbs and tobacco open the round dance, with floral components and then a little orange zest; the attack is full of character, but also with a lot of polish and excellent, long-lasting tannins; the finish is fruity and noble. Anyone who appreciates suppleness and independent personality will love this wine." Vinum

"It's smoky, with a core of cherry, blackberry and plum flavours. Menthol, wild herbs and iron add accents, and though it's supple, there's a solid structure of bright acidity and moderate, dusty tannins, with fine balance and length." Wine Spectator

"Bright and fresh with a lovely energy. Flavours of orange peel, chocolate, cherries and cedar follow through to a medium body, firm tannins and crisp acidity with a crisp finish. Will age well but is already delicious now." James Suckling

"The Fontalloro 2021 is great. This is a classic Fontalloro, a wine that combines remarkable density with the wilder personality of Sangiovese - partly from the Colli Senesi. As such, it is a somewhat rustic wine, but it is a wine that will be a good dinner companion. Leather, incense, tobacco and scorched earth complement a wine that shows the darker, wilder side of the variety. With air, pretty floral notes unfold. I would cellar this wine for a few years." Vinous

"The nose offers classic, delicate aromas of cherries, wild strawberries, blood oranges, top soil and sage. On the palate, darker berries and even more cherries contrast with an earthy, bitter bite of citrus, while supple acidity flows past unifying tannins that are precise but with a chalky tenacity." Wine Enthusiast

"The Fontalloro 2021 reveals an elegant bouquet with a streamlined character that offers good intensity but is never excessive. The Sangiovese carries this lean style well, delivering plenty of nuances of wild cherries and wild berries. There are also gentle mineral tones and earthy orris roots. This bottle should develop well with time in the cellar." Wine Advocate

Concerto was born in 1981, a time of dynamic change in Italian viticulture. The previously untapped potential was recognised and experiments were made with new grape varieties and, for the first time, successfully with international grape varieties. Produced from 80% Sangiovese and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, the Rosso Toscana Concerto was one of the pioneers of the later phenomenon of the Supertuscans and was one of the region's elite wines for a long time.

Intense, bright ruby red colour. Rich bouquet of redcurrant, cherry, spices and a delicate hint of vanilla. Endless fruit on the palate, dense and full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a very subtle acid wire in the background. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, intense colour. Sweet, fragrant and with fine fruit, the Concerto smells from the glass and shows a lot of Sangiovese flavour and a captivating sweetness. It does not reach the fullness of the 2020 and the overall flavour remains a little lighter in tone. With high intensity, the Concerto 2021 is then somewhat less full in the mouth with excellent extract sweetness. Dense and taut, polished and long, with a very straightforward structure and tightly woven, fine tannins. Great, penetrating Concerto with lots of juice, the wood shines through a little on the finish." Weinwisser

"Rich, deep dark ruby colour. Presents itself on the nose with notes of tobacco and liquorice, dark, ripe plums, some wild berries. Rich and at the same time polished on the palate, builds beautifully, velvety, well-integrated tannins, has firm pressure, long finish." Falstaff

"The Concerto di Fonterutoli 2021, an assemblage of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon from Mazzei, is full-bodied and full-toned from the ground up. Strong, red fruits, blood orange, cedar and spices combine effortlessly with soft, silky tannins to round off the whole. Today, the Sangiovese is very expressive." Vinous

"It's spicy and vibrant with a blend of red and dark berries, dried citrus peel, chilli pepper and spicy herbs. Also a hint of bark. Full-bodied with polished tannins and a chalky, powdery texture. The juicy acidity comes into its own. Shows depth and concentration. Racy and long. Better from 2026." James Suckling

"The 2021 Concerto di Fonterutoli is a very extracted wine that carries its fruit weight over a long and velvety mouthfeel. The wine delivers dark fruit, cherry liqueur, spice and smoked tobacco. This is a modern Tuscan wine with broad shoulders, powerful structure and rich texture. It needs a few more years of bottle ageing to smooth out the tannins." Wine Advocate

"Despite the hot summer of 2021, the nights were cool, which allowed the healthy grapes to fully ripen and contributed to the finesse of the tannins. The Mazzei family has made a great leap in quality, resulting in a wine with greater purity, transparency and finesse. The aromas are clear, bright and precise, with notes of lively blackcurrant wrapped in gentle spice. The acidity is lively, the flavours are bright and vibrant, and the tannins are fine and beautifully integrated into the wine. This is a stunning wine that is effortless, light and flowing across the palate." Decanter

Granato has been an exceptional Teroldego for years: It convinces in the bouquet with its rich balsamic scent of sour cherries and red currants. Extract-rich and intense, powerful and extremely precise on the palate. A great wine that reflects the long-standing consistency and competence of this winemaker. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 Teroldego Granato is so youthful yet so beautiful, rising from the glass with an infectiously spicy bouquet that is at times autumnal, at times savoury, mingling with dark red fruits. The palate is flooded with a wave of intense raspberries and wild berries that quickly saturate, but with a hint of sour citrus for a nice balance. A pretty inner sweetness lingers as it finishes structured and remarkably long with a refreshing hint of inner rose and wild strawberry that lingers on. It's powerful but also elegant and perfectly balanced for a long evolution." Vinous

"This wine shows deep red and dark berries with peppery notes, dark chocolate, hibiscus and grapefruit peel. Just a hint of cedar and smoked herbs. Full and concentrated, so stable and dense with lively, finely honed tannins and vibrant acidity giving the wine power and highlighting the savoury fruit and minerality. Very long and tense." James Suckling

"Iconic wine, one of the expressive peaks of Teroldego. Fermentation in open oak vats, ageing in acacia and cement casks, great freshness on the nose, redcurrants, touches of wild mint and rhubarb, on the palate it is dense-sweet, with a fruity-balsamic return and a finish on underbrush notes." Luca Gardini

From the expert hand of master distiller Giovi comes this truly unique grappa. Grappasessanta is produced according to the classic discontinuous method, the distillate then undergoes a one-year maturation in small barrels. The result is a powerful, complex and at the same time soft grappa. SUPERIORE.DE

Since Guidalberto has been vinified from its own grapes, most of which also grow in the Sassicaia DOC monopoly position, San Guido's "second wine" has grown beyond itself. Spicy, earthy bouquet with hints of tobacco, clove and lavender, dense and juicy on the palate with fresh red and black berry fruit. The tannins are well balanced and the finish is complex with a majestic elegance that will become even more refined with years of ageing in the bottle. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Guidalberto is made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot and has its own vines, some of which are inside and some outside the Sassicaia DOC. A very subtle wine with ripe, charming fruit and a velvety texture. It is more elegant and refined than before." Weinwisser

"Gently shining ruby red colour. Multi-layered bouquet, opens on ripe wild berries, redcurrant, notes of juniper, cedar and black pepper, a touch of lilac. Silky attack, precise fruit on very well-integrated, fine tannins, elegant and with gentle pressure in the long final." Falstaff

"The 2022 is full of aromas of herbs and sea breeze amid bright, tangy berries. In the mouth, it is savoury and precise, with a juiciness to the concentrated core of plums and black berries and a gracefulness to the tannin and acidity structures that weave through it. Juicy and incredibly flavoursome, with a wonderfully ripe red berry finish, this wine really stands on its own two feet." Decanter

"Lots of mint with sage and fresh rosemary to go with the redcurrants and oranges on the nose, as well as some ripe raspberries. The palate is very refined with creamy and crisp tannins that run the length of the wine. It shows a crisp and energetic personality. It should be given another year or two to develop, but it is already very good for the vintage." James Suckling

"The Guidalberto 2022 gives you a good taste of the same DNA that gives us one of Italy's greatest wines, Sassicaia, but it is offered here in a more immediate style. This warm vintage opens with a medium-dark concentration and very powerful aromas that immediately remind you of blackberries and blackcurrants lying in the sun at the farmers' market. The wine shows a soft and gentle side with a nice level of elegance conveyed by the freshness of the fruit and the slight oak spice that is noticeable here, but with grace." Wine Advocate

"This red wine is elegant, despite its firm structure and dense tannins. The flavours of black cherry, blackcurrant, plum, tobacco, iron and rosemary hold court, with all components balanced. The finish is long, with a salty flavour." Wine Spectator

Deep, dark ruby red colour. Ripe notes of dried small redcurrants and blackberries, plus some smoke and tobacco - this is Sangiovese in its most focussed form. Lush and fleshy on the palate, with a firm body, spicy nuances, multi-layered fruit and a wonderful finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Plenty of sweet spices lie upon the citrus and rich berry fruit. Lots of ripeness here but it is also fresh and flavorful, showing impressive texture, structure and a long, juicy finish." James Suckling

"The 2019 Petresco picks up where the 2018 left off, although it is perhaps a bit more reserved at this stage than its older sibling was. Deceptive in its mid-weight structure, the 2019 possesses notable depth and intensity. Time in the glass brings out shades of red/purplish Sangiovese fruit mixed with suggestions of new leather, spice and menthol." Vinous

The star from Tenuta Sant'Antonio: A rich dark ruby red, its bouquet of wild fruits, black pepper, tobacco and spices is a delight for the nose. Fruity and full-bodied, yet velvety and very sophisticated in its character - an austere, characterful and elegant Amarone, whose terrificfinish is accompanied by noble tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"It has distinct aromas of chocolate wheat and spiced plum crumble. Tart black fruits and balsamic freshness lurk in the mouth with streaks of tangy red fruits and dusty spices, supported by fine, grainy tannins. It's sweet and juicy and shows some chalky tautness on the palate, giving this big wine a desirable finesse." Decanter

"Ruby red with a tendency towards violet. The nose reveals clear notes of sour cherry, cherry, plum, blood orange and undergrowth, followed by floral notes of rose and violet. Gradually, spicy notes unfold. Full, juicy and fruity on the palate, with splendid tannins, finishing delicately bitter on the long finish." Falstaff

"The Tenuta Sant'Antonio Famiglia Castagnedi 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Campo dei Gigli reveals a very savory character with dried fruit, lots of plum and spicy back notes that transition to tarry smoke and barbecue. The wine is full-bodied and slightly evolved due to the hot vintage conditions." Wine Advocate

"Thick and rather syrupy dried black fruits face a wall of black pepper and toasted oak on the nose, which turns to liquorice on the palate. Any subtler, more complex character waits for now for the youthful fruit and oak to clear the main stage. And that can take some time. Nevertheless, this wine is already very pleasant to drink and will give pleasure for many years to come." James Suckling

"The 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Campo dei Gigli is intense, like opening an ash stone to discover a wealth of dried black cherries, cinnamon sticks, incense and dried herbs. The texture is deep, with a balanced inner sweetness highlighted by vibrant acidity, while the depths of tart red fruits slowly saturate the palate with primary concentration. The 2017 finishes structured and dramatically long, making a case for further cellaring." Vinous

Etna is one of Italy's most fascinating wine regions and Andrea Franchetti is probably the most fanatical producer in this area. Added to this are eighty-year-old indigenous Nerello Mascalese vines. The single vineyard Contrada Porcaria has a thoroughly masculine personality. Darkly scented with ripe fruit and menthol, the palate is predominantly spice and mineral with many other facets. The course and the final are rich, dense and very convincing. SUPERIORE.DE

"A juicy, lush attack on the nose of Amarena cherry, plums and pepper. This wine radiates an incredible energy and seems precisely structured. Sour cherry on the palate, with a fine spiciness of mace. Inviting acidity from the still young fruit and a great length. The radiance of the volcano captured in a brilliant wine." Vinum

"The 2020 Contrada Porcaria (P) is dark and inward as crushed stones and camphor dissipate to reveal spiced cherries and a touch of shaved cedar. It feels silky and robust, with bright acidity adding emphasis to the tart red berry fruit as the 2020 shows an abundance of energy. Fine tannins saturate the final under a hint of flowers, while a touch of salt and minerality slowly fades." Vinous

"From a hot and dry vintage, the 2020 Contrada P, with fruit from Contrada Porcaria at 650m, offers a great balance between very fruity flavours contrasted with scorched earth and campfire ash." Wine Advocate

Historically, the vineyards of Castello di Fonterutoli are located in the areas of three neighbouring municipalities of Chianti Classico: Castellina in Chianti, Castelnuovo Berardenga and Radda in Chianti. With the 2017 vintage, the Mazzei family vinified all three large vineyards separately as Chianti Classico Gran Selezione for the first time in order to recognise the diversity of the terroir: Castello di Fonterutoli, Vicoregio 36 and Badiòla.

As a result of 50 years of research, 36 biotypes of the Sangiovese grape were planted on a sunny plateau near Castelnuova Berardenga, from which this extremely interesting and unique wine was created a few years ago. The overall impression is very balanced and straightforward with hints of red cherries, spices, dried blueberries and tobacco. It is the warmest and most balanced of the three Gran Selezione wines. Its intensity, richness of colour and precise fruit immediately captivate Sangiovese lovers. SUPERIORE.DE

"Archetypal for a Chianti Classico, marrying fine fruit with depth and robust, earthy-spicy grip and remaining compact and full-bodied until the long finish." Weinwisser

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Dark berry and spicy on the nose, with rich precious wood, milk chocolate, fine, resinous tones and a hint of smoke and coconut. Juicy on the palate, with compact tannins and a savoury core, the final is grippy and powerful, the wood has integrated well since the last tasting, powerful finish." Falstaff

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vicoregio 36 is a soft, fruity wine that can be drunk now or over the next few years. Crushed flowers, sweet red cherry fruit, candy and sweet floral notes permeate this uncomplicated Gran Selezione. The Vicoregio comes from a relatively cool site in Castelnuovo Berardenga and is the only wine in this range to be aged in oak." Vinous

"Very attractive combination of cherries and lightly toasted oak. A hint of cappuccino. Turns into flowers. Full-bodied with creamy tannins and light-coloured fruit. Polished tannins with a hint of vanilla at the end. Needs time to develop. Try it after 2026." James Suckling

"The Mazzei 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Fonterutoli Vicoregio 36 is made from the fruit of an experimental vineyard planted with 36 Sangiovese biotypes. It is characterised by a very linear and concentrated style. This site is particularly rocky with clay-limestone Alberese soils. The ripe fruit of the warm vintage and the lush oak spice give the wine a full-bodied finish. Finally, beautiful mineral notes lend vigour and elegance to the bouquet." Wine Advocate

"This racy red wine is characterised by its lively acidity, which highlights the flavours of cherry, raspberry and iron. Hints of wild herbs, oak spice and tobacco add detail as the wine develops into a long, complex finish that has excellent balance and energy." Wine Spectator

"Exquisite aromas of small fruits, dried roses, spices and tobacco; intriguing structure with sufficient density, but also a great deal of finesse, the tightly woven tannins and acidity in harmony, ends with a long finish. Impeccable Gran Selezione from 36 different Sangiovese biotypes." Vinum

"Marasche on the nose, touches of clementine zest and fresh sage, with peony lashes. Mouthfeel with iodized tannins, a comeback of plum." Luca Gardini

A textbook Pian delle Vigne: a full bouquet of small red berries, brown spices, mocha and tobacco, before musky cherries and sage follow. Its cool, creamy texture introduces a dense wave of ripe red and black fruits, with salty minerals and fine-grained tannins providing grip. It will show its full beauty in a few years, but with sufficient aeration it is already a pleasure today! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red colour, bright. Fine hints of mint, ripe cherries and cranberries on the nose, fine balsamic tones on the finish. Great juiciness on the palate, clear fruit and well-integrated acidity, opens warm-hearted and full-bodied, fine salty finish." Falstaff

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a dark and brooding bouquet that blends plum sauce with dark chocolate and espresso beans. It combines velvety textures with ripe red and black fruits over a core of juicy acidity, while maintaining a lifted and energetic feel. The 2019 finishes structured and long, but still relatively fresh. Orange-flavoured blackberries and savoury herbs linger. I'm very impressed with the 2019's palate performance and tannin management, but I wish the winery would go for an equally fresh presentation on the nose. Still, fans of the Pian delle Vigne style will love the energy in this wine." Vinous

"Aromas and flavours of iron and red chalk define this muscular red wine, while notes of plum cherry, menthol and tar are added on the chewy and extended finish. Balanced tannins, with a nice length." Vinous

"Sweet black cherries with some blackberries as well as cherry blossom on the nose and palate. Medium to full-bodied with firm tannins and a chewy finish, but it will soften and come together nicely with bottle age." James Suckling

"Prestige, elegance and tradition, a label symbol of the denomination. Olfaction refined, notes of dogwood, eucalyptus and touches of bergamot. Crunchy-dense palate, with briny tannins, returns with balsamic and citrusy notes." Luca Gardini

Exceptionally fine spumante with a delicate, fruity flavour of raspberry, acacia honey and apricot and a lovely yeasty note. Bright, rich straw yellow colour, persistent, fine perlage. Ripe, with a wonderfully integrated wood base, very full, long and intense flavour. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, bright golden yellow colour. Fragrant, warm bouquet of fresh bread, dried peach and apricots, followed by a slightly nutty flavour and delicate hints of Mediterranean herbs. Elegant, delicate perlage in the mouth, yet with plenty of drive and electrifying acidity through to the long, salty finish." Falstaff

"The nose is dominated by sour peaches and white roses. The medium body has pungent bubbles and pure fruit with crisp, long apple acidity. The finish is precise and savoury." 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

Deep, dark Riserva with a powerful berry bouquet and intense spicy notes and hints of damp forest floor. Taut on the palate, crisp fruit, solid tannins, good length. Lots of energy, nice spice and great potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Very intense and inviting nose, flavours of raspberries, cherry jam and hazelnut biscuits. Firm tannins dominate the palate, lots of damson." Falstaff

"On the nose, the sweetness of cherry and vanilla is balanced by the gentle bitterness of orange zest and herbs. On the palate, a rush of chocolate invigorates the fruit element, but balance is maintained by an earthiness that's drawn out by chalky, clingy tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"The Chianti Classico Riserva 2019 is a blend of Sangiovese (90%) with smaller proportions of Merlot and Colorino. It shows a dark, saturated appearance and a heavy aromatic load of black fruits, ripe cherries, plums, spices and sweet floral earth. The wine finishes with medium concentration, herbal notes and the natural freshness of Sangiovese." Wine Advocate

"There's a good balance of fruit and oak here, with red berries and fine oak giving off a hint of vanilla. Medium to full-bodied with well-integrated fruit and oak tannins and a sort of plump feel on the palate. The finish is medium length at the moment but should lengthen with time in the bottle. Try it from mid-2024." James Suckling

The Spuntali vineyard is historically known as the best area of the south-west, sea-facing slope of Montalcino. Spuntali is a historic cru for Brunello di Montalcino: it is its unique terroir, it is also the sunniest and driest of the three slopes of Brunello, and the sea, just 40 kilometres away, already provides a Mediterranean climate here.

The Mediterranean generally plays a decisive role here, moderating the warm summer nights and cold winters. This enables an early reawakening of the plant in spring and an important day/night temperature change in summer. Due to these special climatic conditions, it is the vineyard whose grapes are harvested first in the appellation. Here, the Sangiovese takes advantage of the beneficial effects of the sun, reaches maximum ripeness and produces rather creamy wines with sweet, soft tannins and notes of candied fruit.

Deep ruby-garnet colour. Develops a warm, intense and refined bouquet of ripe fruit with notes of sour cherry, dried figs and candied fruit. On the palate, the sweet and soft tannins accompany the long finish, rich in notes of plums and blackberries. The palate is deeply layered with rich flavours of cherries, blackberries and dark fruits. There is plenty to discover in the background: spices, leather and balsamic herbs. All these elements are skilfully interwoven and make for a very impressive interpretation of the Sangiovese grape. SUPERIORE.DE

"Elegant, dark, bright ruby red colour. Savoury and inviting nose, precise aromas of cherries, graphite and Mediterranean herbs, with subtle hints of black tea on the finish. Beautiful juiciness and polished, present fruit on the palate, accessible, albeit complex, shows tightly woven tannins and plenty of finesse, has benefited from bottle ageing." Falstaff

"Though light and elegant, offering cherry, strawberry and floral flavors, this red also boasts dense tannins for its profile. Finds a nice equilibrium by the finish, despite the powdery tannins coating the gums." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Spuntali is wild, with more flowers than fruit, incense, wet stones and wild herbs. It opens with a pretty inner sweetness and a texture of pure silk that lays across the palate with ease, while tart wild berries nestle under a hint of purple flowers. Although tannic, it is only lightly structured, as the residual acids provide a framework that keeps the mouth watering while the hint of sweet rose slowly fades. The 2018 Vigna Spuntali is unlike any Brunello I've ever tasted, and yet I keep returning to this glass." Vinous

"Tarry red fruit, orange peel, dry earth and hints of new leather and shells. Juicy, medium-bodied on the palate with firm, creamy tannins and a long, spicy finish." James Suckling

"The Vigna Spuntali is located in the warm south-west of Montalcino on galestro and sandy soils. The wine is vinified in concrete tanks and then matures for six months in barriques and 18 months in large Slavonian oak barrels. Intense aromas of black and red cherries lead to a fresh and lively flavour of fleshy, juicy black and red berries and cherries, with strong tannins and a long finish. Weighty yet well balanced." Decanter

Beautifully balanced on the nose with dried roses, blackcurrants, earth and balsamic herbs. The Brunello di Montalcino La Pieve, with its tannins and strong, primary fruity core on the palate, shows a somewhat greater firmness and power than the Annata. This wine is so youthful yet full of balanced components; salty minerals, liquorice and tart blackberries linger incredibly long under a hint of purple flowers. It needs a little more bottle ageing before it begins to shine. With this single-vineyard Brunello from Castelnuovo dell'Abate, La Gerla succeeds in bringing out the purity of Sangiovese in a remarkable way. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense, red berry, super floral bouquet, tobacco, leather. Juicy palate, supple, sweet berries, nice ripeness, super juicy style, grippy but sweet ripe tannin, a typical 2019. " Weinwisser

"Bright, shiny ruby red colour. Fragrant nose of wax, stone pine, cane sugar, then rich dark berry fruit and undergrowth, with a delicate balsamic note, complex and inviting. Harmonious entry and progression on the palate, balanced, with well-integrated tannins and great juiciness, shows beautiful Sangiovese character, good length, with a finish of citrus fruit." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Sublime, concentrated cherry nose with a hint of spicy, complex oak, but in a very subtle way. Lush, tangy cherry fruit with finely milled, firm tannins that support the fruit without ever becoming dominant. Great balance." Jancis Robinson

"With intensity to the cherry, strawberry and raspberry fruit, this red is shaded with elements of tobacco, earth and wild herbs. Dusty tannins and lively acidity provide support, while a mineral component gathers steam on the salty, lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino La Pieve opens with a mentholated freshness that mingles with dusty roses, crushed stones and dried cherries. It shows a silky texture contrasted by cool acidity and minerals, while the tart red fruits slowly saturate. The 2019 leaves edgy tannins on the palate as it takes on a balsamic note and traces of cloves slowly fade. La Pieve is a classic wine, but it also has a powerful structure. Bury your bottles deep." Vinous

"In the black label bottle, the La Gerla 2019 Brunello di Montalcino La Pieve reveals a 360-degree bouquet of generous fruit, dark currant, petrichor, wet slate and a mix of rosemary and grilled herb. This wine presents a classic Brunello bouquet combined with medium fruit weight and very fine, grippy tannins. Production is limited to 6,320 bottles this year." Wine Advocate

"Once again the raw material on the shields for a compact and intense Brunello. On the nose, notes of red blackberries, a hint of cinnamon and Valdostan mint, finishing on notes of wild iris. Juicy and taut sip, salty tannins, closes with a return of menthol notes." Luca Gardini

Since summer 2023, Chianti Classico producers have been allowed to include the eleven additional geographical indications (UGA = unità geografiche aggiuntive) introduced in 2021 on the labels of the top Gran Selezione category. For Chianti Classico winegrowers, it is a logical step to produce wines that reflect the area in which they were produced as authentically as possible. And customers can thus deepen their knowledge of the relationship between the wines and their region of origin - a real added value.

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 the course of a former river. It is a 6.4 hectare plot that was planted in 1998 with a south-west exposure. This site is located in a valley along the Arbia river, and the soils here are very complex with alluvial soil and clay that contains little organic matter and less limestone.

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

"Very multi-faceted flavour with crisp raspberries, small cherries, wild berries and earthy nuances. Cool and firmly defined, grippy style, mineral nuances, savoury final. Needs time." Weinwisser

"Intense, sparkling ruby colour, slightly brightening garnet rim. Very clear nose, aromas of fresh plums and blackberries, some blood orange in the background. Polished on the palate, opens up with lots of fine tannins, juicy, spans a wide range." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione CeniPrimo 2021 is another powerful wine from Ricasoli. Here it is the breadth and textural presence of the wine that stand out the most. Dark red fruits, dried flowers, spices and earthy notes abound. I would be tempted to give this wine a year or two in the bottle." Vinous

"The Barone Ricasoli 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole CeniPrimo shows a soft fruit structure with lots of sweet cherry and raspberry in the foreground. The grapes for this wine come from a vineyard planted in a muddy riverbed. As a result of these warm growing conditions, the CeniPrimo tends to have a fleshier fruit." Wine Advocate

"Medicinal herbs and vanilla weave through the dark red cherry. The ripe, dense, fleshy fruit is coated with plenty of dusty tannins, while zesty, citrusy acidity adds a refreshing, countering lift. It leaves resonant hints of leather, chinotto and earthy forest roots and deserves to cellar." Decanter

"This wine has a lot of energy with a crisp and lively flavour. Undertones of sour cherry, orange peel and cedar. It is medium-bodied, supple and racy. Very lively. Drinkable now, but better in a year or two when it comes together." James Suckling

"A ray of acidity runs through this sparkling red wine, giving it energy and driving its flavours of cherries, strawberries, minerals and spices. Ripe and supple at the same time, it firms up on the long and lively finish. All the elements together add up to great potential." Wine Spectator