Bibenda

Palazzo Lana Extrême Riserva is a masterpiece from a great vintage. The pure Pinot Nero is characterised by a complex bouquet of fresh yeast, pear and lemongrass. Bright fruit on the palate, firm, with lively acidity and wonderfully consistent perlage. SUPERIORE.DE

"A wine of balance and finesse. Bright and fresh aromas of mixed apples, lemon blossom and crushed chalk lift from the glass. Its solid structure and taut palate are complemented by a well-integrated richness, the shows flavors of spiced pear compote in a fresh brioche with hints of roasted nuts and honey. Finishing with a bright pop of fresh acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"There's a leesy edge to the expressive flavors of baked pear and persimmon, roasted hazelnut, honeycomb and dried lemon thyme in this focused sparkler. A spine of deftly honed acidity and an underpinning of minerally salt, oyster shell and smoke notes form a well-defined frame for the rich profile, with accents of ground ginger and white pepper that play on the lasting finish." Wine Spectator

"Telltale Franciacorta with restrained stone fruits, breakfast pastries, cotton candy and lemons. Large yet smooth bubbles with lean body, crisp acidity and great tension. Fiercely fresh and tight in the finish, the slight bitterness adding an extra dimension." James Suckling

"The 2013 Riserva Palazzo Lana Extrême blends enriching notes of raw almond and confectionary spice with stone dust, yellow apples and hints of cardamom. Pure seduction, it is soothingly round with silken bubbles contrasted by a core of ripe orchard fruits and a twang of candied citrus. It finishes long yet remarkably fresh, leaving nuances of lemon curd and minty herbs to resonate above a tactile tinge of saline minerality. This stunning Palazzo Lana Extrême aims to please and has the balance to mature beautifully in the cellar." Vinous

Just 2,500 bottles of this 100% Syrah are bottled, aged (on the skins) for six months in amphorae, then filtered and matured in small French oak barrels.

Brilliant ruby red colour. On the nose, a seductive blend of cherry with hints of chocolate, herbs and a fine liquorice note. Cherry again on the palate, complemented by a kaleidoscope of chocolate, coffee and a subtle juniper note. A fabulous acidity structure and fine-grained tannins guide this precisely composed wine to a furious final. Keir complements the winery's high-class portfolio in a very independent and emphatic way. Magnificent! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, powerful ruby colour with a violet rim. Smells of wild strawberries and candy floss, some blackberry, followed by spicy notes of rosemary and thyme. Plump and juicy fruit on the palate, very precise and clear, thrilling on the finish with very well-placed tannins and firm pressure." Falstaff

"The 2022 edition was a little closed initially, showing dark fruit and blackberry traits nevertheless. The wine is concentrated and texturally rich. The hot vintage is perhaps less focused on vertical aromas and more focused on the broader impact of the mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"A juicy and chocolaty red wine with cloves, black pepper and a hint of terracotta. Medium-bodied with round and crisp fruit and a light hazelnut and clove finish. Just a hint of dark chocolate." James Suckling

A beautiful, very sensual, feminine wine that is only vinified in the best vintages. Exquisitely flavoured with dark fruit, elegant and fine on the palate with plenty of fruit and length. It was named after the nickname once given to the young wild Clerico by his father: Aeroplan Servaj - wild aeroplane. And the labelling is just as wild and creative - there are six different labels! SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium red; caramel-fruity, inviting; juicy attack, fullness, round, dark fruity, lots of good tannin, pleasing." Merum

"Medium ruby red colour. Complex, spicy nose of red fruits and pure red fruits with enveloping tannins on the palate. Great balance and length. Firmly structured, yet elegant and with a certain suppleness." Jancis Robinson

"Aeroplanservaj is a kind of futuristic label for the first Barolo produced in Serralunga by Domenico Clerico. Oscar Arrivabene, the winery's winemaker, explained that 10% of the oak barrels are used for ageing in barriques; this is more of a logistical decision than a stylistic one, as the plot in Serralunga is so small. The wine has hints of smoky woods, dried cherries, cinnamon spice and a heady violet note that permeates the structure. The attack is austere, not rustic, just wild and youthful. The tannins need to be tamed at the moment, but it's a Serralunga full of detail and I'd wager it will age well." Decanter

"Firm, complex and deep, slightly iodised, also fleshy and a little herbal aroma of ripe black rather than red berries with a hint of soy sauce, tomato essence and floral nuances. Firm, tart and juicy fruit, surprisingly fresh despite all its power, a certain acid bite and fine, youthful tannins, slightly smoky notes on the palate, a little cocoa and hints of coffee, peppery notes in the background, a little herbs and salt, good depth, still barely developed, tobacco traces, very good, firm, juicy and tart-spicy, again slightly smoky finish with peppery, juniper-like tones and noticeable alcoholic strength." Wein-plus

"Flavours of cherries and plums with some fresh roses follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fresh and clean finish. Bright and lively. Taut. Firm and structured." James Suckling

"This red wine is rich but densely woven, providing a backdrop for the flavours of cherries, wild strawberries, earth, minerals and wild herbs. Balanced, even graceful, with fine intensity and a lingering aftertaste of fruit, minerals and herbs." Wine Spectator

"Brilliant ruby red with garnet-coloured rim. On the nose, initially fine earthy tones, some cold smoke, after some time Assam tea, ripe raspberries, cranberries, precious wood. Polished, creamy fruit on the palate, extremely energetic and with vibrant acidity, the tannins are powerful and firm, currently still a little young and wide-meshed, will mature well." Falstaff

"The first Serralunga from the historic Monforte winery, bottled for the first time in 2006, comes from a beautiful family story. Notes of cranberry on the nose, nuances of peony, undergrowth and eucalyptus." Luca Gardini

"With its colourful fantasy label, the Domenico Clerico 2019 Barolo Aeroplan Servaj shows dark fruit and a velvety texture with rusty nails and pencil shavings. This vintage is more concentrated and structured overall, and the result is both rich and very beautiful. The fruit comes from vines planted in 1994. The wine is aged mostly in large oak barrels and about 10% in barriques." Wine Advocate

A beautiful, very sensual, feminine wine that is only vinified in the best vintages. Exquisitely flavoured with dark fruit, elegant and fine on the palate with plenty of fruit and length. It was named after the nickname once given to the young wild Clerico by his father: Aeroplan Servaj - wild aeroplane. And the labelling is just as wild and creative - there are six different labels! SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium red; caramel-fruity, inviting; juicy attack, fullness, round, dark fruity, lots of good tannin, pleasing." Merum

"Medium ruby red colour. Complex, spicy nose of red fruits and pure red fruits with enveloping tannins on the palate. Great balance and length. Firmly structured, yet elegant and with a certain suppleness." Jancis Robinson

"Aeroplanservaj is a kind of futuristic label for the first Barolo produced in Serralunga by Domenico Clerico. Oscar Arrivabene, the winery's winemaker, explained that 10% of the oak barrels are used for ageing in barriques; this is more of a logistical decision than a stylistic one, as the plot in Serralunga is so small. The wine has hints of smoky woods, dried cherries, cinnamon spice and a heady violet note that permeates the structure. The attack is austere, not rustic, just wild and youthful. The tannins need to be tamed at the moment, but it's a Serralunga full of detail and I'd wager it will age well." Decanter

"Firm, complex and deep, slightly iodised, also fleshy and a little herbal aroma of ripe black rather than red berries with a hint of soy sauce, tomato essence and floral nuances. Firm, tart and juicy fruit, surprisingly fresh despite all its power, a certain acid bite and fine, youthful tannins, slightly smoky notes on the palate, a little cocoa and hints of coffee, peppery notes in the background, a little herbs and salt, good depth, still barely developed, tobacco traces, very good, firm, juicy and tart-spicy, again slightly smoky finish with peppery, juniper-like tones and noticeable alcoholic strength." Wein-plus

"Flavours of cherries and plums with some fresh roses follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fresh and clean finish. Bright and lively. Taut. Firm and structured." James Suckling

"This red wine is rich but densely woven, providing a backdrop for the flavours of cherries, wild strawberries, earth, minerals and wild herbs. Balanced, even graceful, with fine intensity and a lingering aftertaste of fruit, minerals and herbs." Wine Spectator

"Brilliant ruby red with garnet-coloured rim. On the nose, initially fine earthy tones, some cold smoke, after some time Assam tea, ripe raspberries, cranberries, precious wood. Polished, creamy fruit on the palate, extremely energetic and with vibrant acidity, the tannins are powerful and firm, currently still a little young and wide-meshed, will mature well." Falstaff

"The first Serralunga from the historic Monforte winery, bottled for the first time in 2006, comes from a beautiful family story. Notes of cranberry on the nose, nuances of peony, undergrowth and eucalyptus." Luca Gardini

"With its colourful fantasy label, the Domenico Clerico 2019 Barolo Aeroplan Servaj shows dark fruit and a velvety texture with rusty nails and pencil shavings. This vintage is more concentrated and structured overall, and the result is both rich and very beautiful. The fruit comes from vines planted in 1994. The wine is aged mostly in large oak barrels and about 10% in barriques." Wine Advocate

A beautiful, very sensual, feminine wine that is only vinified in the best vintages. Exquisitely flavoured with dark fruit, elegant and fine on the palate with plenty of fruit and length. It was named after the nickname once given to the young wild Clerico by his father: Aeroplan Servaj - wild aeroplane. And the labelling is just as wild and creative - there are six different labels! SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium red; caramel-fruity, inviting; juicy attack, fullness, round, dark fruity, lots of good tannin, pleasing." Merum

"Medium ruby red colour. Complex, spicy nose of red fruits and pure red fruits with enveloping tannins on the palate. Great balance and length. Firmly structured, yet elegant and with a certain suppleness." Jancis Robinson

"Aeroplanservaj is a kind of futuristic label for the first Barolo produced in Serralunga by Domenico Clerico. Oscar Arrivabene, the winery's winemaker, explained that 10% of the oak barrels are used for ageing in barriques; this is more of a logistical decision than a stylistic one, as the plot in Serralunga is so small. The wine has hints of smoky woods, dried cherries, cinnamon spice and a heady violet note that permeates the structure. The attack is austere, not rustic, just wild and youthful. The tannins need to be tamed at the moment, but it's a Serralunga full of detail and I'd wager it will age well." Decanter

"Firm, complex and deep, slightly iodised, also fleshy and a little herbal aroma of ripe black rather than red berries with a hint of soy sauce, tomato essence and floral nuances. Firm, tart and juicy fruit, surprisingly fresh despite all its power, a certain acid bite and fine, youthful tannins, slightly smoky notes on the palate, a little cocoa and hints of coffee, peppery notes in the background, a little herbs and salt, good depth, still barely developed, tobacco traces, very good, firm, juicy and tart-spicy, again slightly smoky finish with peppery, juniper-like tones and noticeable alcoholic strength." Wein-plus

"Flavours of cherries and plums with some fresh roses follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fresh and clean finish. Bright and lively. Taut. Firm and structured." James Suckling

"This red wine is rich but densely woven, providing a backdrop for the flavours of cherries, wild strawberries, earth, minerals and wild herbs. Balanced, even graceful, with fine intensity and a lingering aftertaste of fruit, minerals and herbs." Wine Spectator

"Brilliant ruby red with garnet-coloured rim. On the nose, initially fine earthy tones, some cold smoke, after some time Assam tea, ripe raspberries, cranberries, precious wood. Polished, creamy fruit on the palate, extremely energetic and with vibrant acidity, the tannins are powerful and firm, currently still a little young and wide-meshed, will mature well." Falstaff

"The first Serralunga from the historic Monforte winery, bottled for the first time in 2006, comes from a beautiful family story. Notes of cranberry on the nose, nuances of peony, undergrowth and eucalyptus." Luca Gardini

"With its colourful fantasy label, the Domenico Clerico 2019 Barolo Aeroplan Servaj shows dark fruit and a velvety texture with rusty nails and pencil shavings. This vintage is more concentrated and structured overall, and the result is both rich and very beautiful. The fruit comes from vines planted in 1994. The wine is aged mostly in large oak barrels and about 10% in barriques." Wine Advocate

A beautiful, very sensual, feminine wine that is only vinified in the best vintages. Exquisitely flavoured with dark fruit, elegant and fine on the palate with plenty of fruit and length. It was named after the nickname once given to the young wild Clerico by his father: Aeroplan Servaj - wild aeroplane. And the labelling is just as wild and creative - there are six different labels! SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium red; caramel-fruity, inviting; juicy attack, fullness, round, dark fruity, lots of good tannin, pleasing." Merum

"Medium ruby red colour. Complex, spicy nose of red fruits and pure red fruits with enveloping tannins on the palate. Great balance and length. Firmly structured, yet elegant and with a certain suppleness." Jancis Robinson

"Aeroplanservaj is a kind of futuristic label for the first Barolo produced in Serralunga by Domenico Clerico. Oscar Arrivabene, the winery's winemaker, explained that 10% of the oak barrels are used for ageing in barriques; this is more of a logistical decision than a stylistic one, as the plot in Serralunga is so small. The wine has hints of smoky woods, dried cherries, cinnamon spice and a heady violet note that permeates the structure. The attack is austere, not rustic, just wild and youthful. The tannins need to be tamed at the moment, but it's a Serralunga full of detail and I'd wager it will age well." Decanter

"Firm, complex and deep, slightly iodised, also fleshy and a little herbal aroma of ripe black rather than red berries with a hint of soy sauce, tomato essence and floral nuances. Firm, tart and juicy fruit, surprisingly fresh despite all its power, a certain acid bite and fine, youthful tannins, slightly smoky notes on the palate, a little cocoa and hints of coffee, peppery notes in the background, a little herbs and salt, good depth, still barely developed, tobacco traces, very good, firm, juicy and tart-spicy, again slightly smoky finish with peppery, juniper-like tones and noticeable alcoholic strength." Wein-plus

"Flavours of cherries and plums with some fresh roses follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fresh and clean finish. Bright and lively. Taut. Firm and structured." James Suckling

"This red wine is rich but densely woven, providing a backdrop for the flavours of cherries, wild strawberries, earth, minerals and wild herbs. Balanced, even graceful, with fine intensity and a lingering aftertaste of fruit, minerals and herbs." Wine Spectator

"Brilliant ruby red with garnet-coloured rim. On the nose, initially fine earthy tones, some cold smoke, after some time Assam tea, ripe raspberries, cranberries, precious wood. Polished, creamy fruit on the palate, extremely energetic and with vibrant acidity, the tannins are powerful and firm, currently still a little young and wide-meshed, will mature well." Falstaff

"The first Serralunga from the historic Monforte winery, bottled for the first time in 2006, comes from a beautiful family story. Notes of cranberry on the nose, nuances of peony, undergrowth and eucalyptus." Luca Gardini

"With its colourful fantasy label, the Domenico Clerico 2019 Barolo Aeroplan Servaj shows dark fruit and a velvety texture with rusty nails and pencil shavings. This vintage is more concentrated and structured overall, and the result is both rich and very beautiful. The fruit comes from vines planted in 1994. The wine is aged mostly in large oak barrels and about 10% in barriques." Wine Advocate

Galatrona is a pure Merlot in a class of its own. Black-red ruby in the glass. Black berries, fine woody spice and some leather on the nose. Very generous fruit flavours and extremely complex on the palate, it glides elegantly into the depths until it is picked up by a finely woven tannin and leads into a long and finesse-rich finish. A wine that has no need to hide behind Masseto & Co. On the contrary, for us it has been Italy's Merlot benchmark for years. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Galatrona from Petrolo is a highly acclaimed Merlot from Tuscany. It is aged for 18 months in large wooden barrels. Viscous, dark colour. The 2021 Galatrona has an aroma of herbs and spices, liquorice and some wood. Full, juicy and melting, it is much more aromatic in the mouth than on the nose. Intense tannins and a very racy acidity create a full structure of medium depth." Weinwisser

"Although seamless and lusciously saturated with aromas and flavours of blackcurrant, blackberry, violet, iron, tobacco and spice, this red is also solidly built, with polished tannins. Yet it's more about finesse and elegance than power, with a lively profile and a super-long finish." Wine Spectator

"Bright purple in the glass, gorgeous aromas of black cherry and blackcurrant with floral notes - this 100% Merlot smells wonderfully fragrant and inviting. On the palate it is supple, full-bodied and really seductive, sensual with silky but grippy tannins, beautifully ripe blackcurrant and cherry fruit and crisp acidity that is not too sharp or obvious but enlivens the palate and adds a kick and wonderful freshness to the overall expression. Beautifully presented, harmonious, balanced and absolutely enjoyable from the first to the last sip. A great wine, intense yet energetic, full of nuances of flavour and texture. A wine not to be sneezed at, although it still has plenty of potential for further ageing." Decanter

"The nose shows a wide world of spicy aromas, from red chalk and metal to wood and earth, with cranberries, redcurrants and dark berries as a sweet contrast. The palate reveals a lively flavour with the warmth of earth and freshly ripened fruit, accompanied by tart tannins that promise a long finish. An absolutely acrobatic feat when it comes to Merlot." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2021 Val d'Arno di Sopra Galatrona shows extremely focused aromas, but very generous ones all the while, with soft mint, cherry and stracciatella over a full-bodied texture with soft layers of spice and cedarwood. The wine boasts an elegantly chalky quality to the tannins, but the mouthfeel is so generous, everything irons out beautifully over the palate." Wine Advocate

"The Galatrona 2021 is a good successor to the 2020. In most vintages, the Galatrona is very noticeable right from the start. This is not at all the case with the 2021. This wine will need a few more years to show its best side. Black cherry, plum, mocha, leather, liquorice and incense give the 2021 enormous complexity. More than anything, I admire the sense of vertical, explosive energy that catapults the 2021 into the stratosphere. This is a great wine in every way." Vinous

"The flavours here are very pronounced with dried flowers such as lavender and violets. Also some sage. Black berries and black olive skin. Full-bodied yet straightforward and energetic with very fine tannins and a fantastic length. Fresh and lively on the finish. Best after 2026." James Suckling

"Brilliant dark ruby red colour. Noble, spicy nose of blackcurrants, fine earthy notes, a hint of dried rose petal, cigar box. Sweet and melting on the palate, interwoven with savoury, juicy tannins, elegant on the palate, comes back long and juicy on the final, with fine spicy notes, still a little young." Falstaff

Ruby red, with a fine cherry scent, in which there are also hints of nuts and wild berries, vanilla, cinnamon, sage and tobacco. Concentrated, rich flavour with harmonious tannins and a long, velvety final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, elegant ruby red. Restrained but balanced nose, appears multilayered although filigree. On the palate very juicy, dense, with clear fruit and tightly meshed enveloping tannin, shows elegant pressure, builds up in many layers, great length and finesse." Falstaff

"Deep crimson ruby. A lifted, perfumed raspberry nose with beautiful concentration, a peppery tingle and perfectly integrated oak. Vibrant, crushed red-berry fruit on the palate with long, finely chiselled tannins. Closes up a little on the finish, so expect much more to come, but right now it is already irresistible. Great balance and very elegant." Jancis Robinson

"This historic wine was Sicily's first single-vineyard bottling, from a five-hectare vineyard planted in 1959 then extended by 1.5 hectares in 1965. During its long history, Rosso del Conte has adopted various maturation mediums, including chestnut, Slavonian oak and, today, French oak. The 2016 - the current release - was fermented in stainless steel tanks before spending 18 months in small new French oak barriques. Perricone's spiciness immediately comes through in both aroma and flavour, bolstered by Nero d'Avola's rich, sticky and plummy fruits, accompanied by streaks of tangy red berries, black cherry and tobacco." Decanter

"This is a really pretty Sicilian red with dried-cherry, smoke, walnut and mushroom aromas and flavors. The sour-cherry character kicks in at the finish." James Suckling

"The 2016 Rosso del Conte lifts up with an intense and heady bouquet of sweet herbs and tobacco, which deepens as notes of exotic spice, medicinal cherry and hints of menthol form in the glass. It’s silky in texture, delivering a stunning mix of tart wild berries, salty minerals and sage that creates a pleasantly savory expression, as tannins slowly saturate toward the close. This tapers off structured and dry, nearly masking notes of blackberry and cacao that echo on through the finale. A towering and powerful vintage for Rosso del Conte that will require cellaring to show its best." Vinous

"The Tasca Conti d'Almerita 2016 Sicilia Contea di Sclafani Rosso del Conte Tenuta Regaleali is an historic estate blend of Nero d'Avola and Perricone, and it is the latest release of a wine that forever changed the enological future of Sicily by pegging it to a quality-driven production philosophy. The wine is darkly saturated and boasts pretty dark garnet concentration. Both grapes impart a lasting Sicilian imprint on the bouquet with those aromas of toasted fennel, pistachio and black olive that are always associated with this school of winemaking. The wine sits tight and long on the palate, thanks to its generous (but not overdone) full-bodied style." Wine Advocate

As every year, the secret star of the house is the Dominator in the Dal-Forno style. Dark and dense, it reveals an intense bouquet with jammy aromas of red and dark fruit, alongside spices and wood, tobacco and chocolate. At the same time, the youthful, stormy flavour is an overwhelming demonstration of power. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, dark ruby red colour. Expressive and fragrant nose of dried rose petal, raspberries, cooked oranges, blackberries, precious wood, dark chocolate, fine mint tones on the finish. On the palate with a polished entry, savoury, with great juiciness and clear fruit, coated with noble wood tannin, powerful, elegant, long." Falstaff

"The 2016 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta is intense, with a captivating bouquet that combines cedar shavings, savoury herbs and balsamic spices with rum-soaked cherries, sweet lavender and dark chocolate. The palate is lapped by a silky texture that offers an abundance of tart red and black fruits and a hint of espresso. Crisp mineral tones and zesty acidity provide a dramatic lift. The 2016 finishes long and colourful, with a pleasantly bitter hint of cocoa as grippy tannins linger. The 2016 is a muscular dancer that still writhes youthfully." Vinous

"The Dal Forno Romano 2016 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta is a wine of characteristically dark intensity and rich extraction. If there is one thing this winery knows how to do, it is to produce great wines with high intensity that find a balance and are complex at the same time. Dal Forno's production is always an artful expression, as these are wines that cannot be made in any other hands. This is due to the unique characteristics of the Lodoletta vineyard with its clayey alluvial soils and the special technology used during fermentation and vinification. This classic vintage shows black fruits, olives, dark tar, mahogany and sweet barbecue spices. The wine has a soft and rich texture with firm tannins, but finishes relatively dry with an alcohol content of 14%." Wine Advocate

"Dense garnet color, full of polished aromas of balsamic, cedar wood, earthy minerality, licorice, leather, restrained bramble fruit and coffee grounds. Dry, full-bodied and velvety on the palate, with lifted acidity and an austere finish. Long, slightly chocolatey aftertaste." James Suckling

"Compared to the 2017 Valpolicella, it is darker and richer in flavour. It has a nutty, reductive character with hints of mint and fenugreek. In the mouth, it is fleshy and powerful, less vertical than the 2017. The ripe, concentrated red and black berries have a slightly fleshy touch, enhanced by floral notes of iris and violet as well as crushed rock and exotic spices. A lush black cherry emerges towards the end, but this wine still feels quite tight and closed; the best is yet to come." Decanter

The loose, sandy soils of Cannubi always ensure a special concentration of flavour, and this is particularly evident in this classic vintage. A clean bouquet of small red berries, violets and dried rose petals. A fine mineral note, a pinch of salt and plenty of fruit and a clearly contoured tannin structure on the multi-layered palate. A beautifully straightforward wine, powerful and elegant. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Barolo Cannubi has notes of cherry brandy, cedar, dried leaves, mint and leather. There's a good bit of complexity here too, but these are the aromas and flavours I would expect from a slightly older wine. Sweet floral and spicy notes linger." Vinous

"This wine takes time to develop in the glass and will benefit from time in the cellar, but it is always worth tasting a wine in its youth to understand it. This Barolo's aromas meander out of the glass, swaying between crushed raspberry and macerated cherry, then amaro-like herbs, rosewood, cedar and baking spices. Firm and sturdy on the palate with tannins that mean business, the black cherry fruit sits at the core with wild thyme, licorice and leather holding court. Ensure to have a heart dish with this wine." Wine Enthusiast

"The Michele Chiarlo 2019 Barolo Cannubi is a full-bodied Nebbiolo with medium body and good structure. The bouquet exhibits a dusty, mineral tone that fades into crushed roses, cassis, blood oranges and violets. The Cannubi is always a classic wine, but in this well-balanced vintage it is particularly so." Wine Advocate

"A vineyard in the historic heart of Italy's oldest cru, rehabilitated with great agronomic skill. Notes of dogwood on the nose, then liquorice, a hint of humus and a slightly smoky finish. Spicy tannins on the palate, crisp and again with notes of fruit and undergrowth." Luca Gardini

Only a few thousand bottles of this private collection exist. Impressive, dynamic and radiant. Aromas of dark berries, cloves, menthol, tar, liquorice, herbs and grilled meat, the wood tones very restrained. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Isole e Olena 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Collezione Privata boasts luscious dark concentration with black fruit, grilled herb, crushed stone and sweet crème de cassis. Those bold flavors are followed by a 15% alcohol content that is gracefully integrated here. This is another long-term proposition for your cellar." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Collezione Privata is another stellar wine in this range from Isole e Olena and Paolo De Marchi. Still pretty tightly wound, the 2018 is going to need at least a few years to fully unwind. Dark blue/purplish fruit, lavender, spice, mocha and espresso are some of the many aromas and flavors that start to open with a bit of aeration. The Isole Cabernet has a brilliant track record of aging. I expect the 2018 will one day take its place among the very finest editions." Vinous

"Lots of blackcurrants and currant bush with some graphite and black ink on the nose. Full-bodied with a chewy and polished tannin backbone and lots of blue fruit and stones in the finish. Sandalwood and violets, too. Great structure at the end. Give this time to soften. Try after 2025, but will age for a long time." James Suckling

The extremely complex Barbera d'Asti La Crena comes from vines up to 90 years old in the heart of the Nizza Monferrato region and smells of ripe red fruits, hay and pastries. The full-bodied, warm taste lingers long with plenty of dark fruit, well-proportioned acidity and fine cocoa tones. SUPERIORE.DE

"Barbera from Asti is noticeably different from Barbera from Alba. You will recognize Asti for the brighter aromas, the tart fruit flavors and the freshness. The Vietti 2020 Barbera d'Asti La Crena makes this point with lifted aromas of sour cherry, unripe plum and pomegranate seed. The wine remains juicy and very fruit-forward, but the high tones are given more prominence here." Wine Advocate

"Notes of candied dark berries, chocolate, roasted spices and burnt orange peel. Full-bodied and intense with a toasted, chocolaty character. The juicy fruit is supported by a bed of broad but soft tannins. Long finish." James Suckling

"The Barbera d'Asti La Crena 2020 is soft and lush from the start. In this vintage, the La Crena is particularly forward and fruit-driven. The 2020 needs at least a couple of years to fully develop the classic aromas and flavours of La Crena. Hints of gravel, crushed rock and dried herbs hint at what is to come. La Crena usually blossoms with time in the bottle. I wouldn't be surprised if that were the case here too." Vinous

Mazzei's top wine Siepi is not only an outstanding Tuscan wine every year, but also a 6-hectare vineyard in the middle of dense oak forests with an ideal altitude and a unique climate. The sunshine is optimal throughout the day and a constant breeze from the west prevents excessive heat and creates a mild, Mediterranean climate. The oak forests also provide an ideal protective barrier against extreme weather conditions. Rocky soils of marl, limestone and clay from the Pliocene period ensure a special balance of elements in this geological complex.

Siepi's greatest strength every year is its pronounced sense of integration and harmony, and this excellent 2021 vintage is no exception. The bouquet is fresh and lively with lots of wild cherry, spices, wild rose, lilac and lavender. On the palate, it delights with soft fruit and delicate spice and shows an increasingly fluid personality in the glass, gradually revealing a beautiful sequence of background flavours. The 2021 edition is already very elegant, even polished, but Siepi connoisseurs know that it will need at least another five years of careful bottle ageing before this monumental red begins to show its true greatness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Massive, viscous colour. The Siepi 2021 has a youthful aroma of fine, fresh wood, offensive and brash, with fleshy intensity and limited depth. Its actual flavour has not yet really come through. It is rich and melting, round and lush, sweet and wood-accentuated in the mouth. It is less dense in its core flavours and lives more from its melting, lively flow, which asserts itself clearly and straightforwardly." Weinwisser

"A formidable wine with an appealing bouquet of black cherry and vanilla flavours; powerful in the mouth with a lot of density and fullness, but also very nice, tightly woven tannins and invigorating acidity, with an incredibly long finish." Vinum

"Rich, deep dark ruby violet colour. Compact and dense nose, showing notes of redcurrant, blackberry, ripe cherry, fresh herbal notes in the background. Lots of polished, very well-integrated tannins on the palate, smooth and long finish, juicy and fine melting." Falstaff

"The nose is savory, warm and tangy, with aromas of hot tar, balsamic glaze, espresso, dried figs and blackberries. On the palate, black cherries and dark chocolate enhance that rich blackberry note, while undertones of bitter citrus pith provide balance. Tannins are polished, but grippy, especially as heat creeps up on the finish. This remains a benchmark for its elegance, but also for the sheer pleasure it delivers." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2021 Siepi opens with sweet fruit flavours of cooked cherry, blackberry jam, cinnamon and nutmeg. This full-bodied wine is supple and very smooth in the mouthfeel, and its flavour profile is rich and all-encompassing. This wine is balanced and seamless, and the 2021 vintage is certainly one of the best editions of Siepi we've seen to date." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Siepi is impressive. Blue/purple fruit, lavender, spice, menthol and mocha are beautifully balanced. This lush, juicy blend of Sangiovese and Merlot is, as so often, a real charmer. The 2021 is exceptionally elegant and polished, certainly one of the best editions of recent times. Nevertheless, I believe that the Siepi would benefit from longer ageing in wood or in glass, as it is coming to market too early for a wine of its size and potential." Vinous

"Intense blackcurrant on the nose, baked and ripe, so expressive and inviting with little hints of liquorice and tar. Supple, generous, juicy and bright, this 50/50 Sangiovese Merlot is so well crafted and harmonious - rich, broad and full in the mouth, it runs with life and energy and such underlying vigour. You can feel the intensity and sculpting that is evident here. This wine is no wallflower, but it's so neat and beautifully presented. I love the tannins, massive but controlled and a perfect counterpart to the fresh and ripe red and black fruits with black pepper, tar, tobacco and bitter orange as well as soft floral notes. The brightness is a great match for the depth and complexity delivered by a nuanced glass of wine that has so much to say. I love the tannins and the sense of direction and confidence. It's still in its brooding, flashy, youthful phase with plenty of warmth and spice, but it's a beauty." Decanter

"An opulent yet exciting young red wine with the character of blackberries, violets and black olive skin. Full-bodied. But with so much energy and focus. Lasts for minutes. Best opened after 2028." James Suckling

Since the 2011 vintage, the Riserva Marchese Antinori has been made entirely from grapes from Tenuta Tignanello. As a result, the production volume has decreased and a further leap in quality has been made. Sparkling ruby in colour, with a bouquet of dark wild cherries, graphite, violets and spices. Flowing and round on the palate, very juicy, the French oak adds volume and fullness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark purple in the glass. Dried red fruits, floral notes such as jasmine blossom and rose petals, also black smoked tea, with air also black cherry. Present on the palate with red fruit, again tea leaves, a hint of bitter almond. Tannins present but well woven, acidity that supports the body and gives it strength. Has bite and a lot of class." Vinum

"Dark, bright ruby red colour, lightening rim. Appealing nose of fine precious wood, cold smoke, ripe cherry fruit and ripe wild berries on the finish. Great compactness on the palate, acidity and fruit are in their place, powerful, balanced, accessible." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Riserva Marchese Antinori 2021 is developing into a gem of a wine, even if it is still a little closed at the moment. Dark fruits, spices, leather and tobacco are layered in a Riserva that exudes tension, energy and sheer power." Vinous

"It is a Sangiovese kissed with small proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The wine is accessible and open, spiritually this wine is a Chianti Classico. By this I mean that the elegant minerality of these soils and the sunny flavours of the surroundings are the defining characteristics. You can taste wild flowers, iris, tart fruit and plums. The pronounced mineral character of the wine with dusty white rock gives it lasting complexity and depth." Wine Advocate

"This ripe style is fresh and harmonious, with fruit of plums, cherries and boysenberries, with accents of earth, iron and eucalyptus. Smooth in texture, with a beautifully integrated structure and a long, complex aftertaste." Wine Spectator

As every year, the secret star of the house gives the Dominator in Dal-Forno style. Dark and dense, it reveals an intense bouquet with marmalade-like aromas of red and dark fruits, alongside which spices and wood, tobacco and chocolate echo. At the same time, the youthful, stormy taste is an overwhelming demonstration of power. SUPERIORE.DE

"A compact, focused red, this presents pretty violet, medicinal herb and anise notes on the nose as it slowly expands -- flavors that are more subdued at first on the palate. This is supported by dense, plushly textured tannins, flavors of mulled cherry, dark chocolate and amaro, loamy earth and smoke that are slowly revealed, gaining momentum and lingering on the long finish. Give this some air or time in the glass to allow it to shine brightest." Wine Spectator

"Pungent nose of violets, Amarena cherries, dried figs and slightly charred oak. With air, some toffee notes and pressed flowers emerge. Not so much full-bodied as full-bodied, with silky, fine and polished tannins. Still very young and powerful at the moment. Shows exceptional quality. To be tasted from 2024." James Suckling

"The 2017 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta reminds me of all the desserts, spices and sweets you experience at Christmas. A range of medicinal cherries, plum sauce, ginger biscuits, cloves, cinnamon and dried roses are captivating. The wine has enormous depth, but at the same time it has fantastic freshness. The brilliant acidity gives it an energy rarely found in Valpolicella, enlivening the crisp red fruits and pretty flowers within. The 2017 finishes dramatically long and perfumed, with sour blackberries, currants and a bitter hint of cocoa. It far exceeds expectations for a Valpolicella, with the power and flavours of an Amarone, but with a vibrancy that allows it to hold its own at the dinner table." Vinous

Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta enchants the senses with a burst of spicy citrus fruits, cherries and incense that leaps from the glass. With each swirl, further depth unfolds with complementary notes of dried roses, cocoa and cloves. The wine is elegant and silky smooth with a harmonious blend of ripe red and blue fruits, a savoury core and gorgeous florals that build towards the finish. Hard red candy and a hint of violet pastille linger long while the mouth craves more. This wine is full of energy, it is already delicious now, but it needs a few more years to fully develop. SUPERIORE.DE

"Very dark ruby red with garnet-red reflections. Very intense and multi-layered nose of ripe blackberries and blueberries, candied oranges, dark chocolate, violets and a hint of lemon balm aromas. Very rich on the palate with a fine interplay between fruit and spice, very powerful and yet with elegance, ending on balsamic notes in the very long final." Falstaff

"The wet 2018 vintage has conferred this Valpolicella Superiore – a blend of 60% Corvina, 15% Croatina, 10% Corvinone, 10% Oseleta and 5% Rondinella – with an accessible and fragrant character compared to its more typical firmly shut down youth. Intense scents of potpourri, iris, crushed violet, fresh blueberries, herbs and a hint of black tea lead to a cocoa-dusted palate of succulent and ferrous red fruits, balanced by good acidity and with that beautiful fragrance wafting through." Decanter

"A gorgeous nose of rosemary, leather, cocoa powder and milled pepper is a fragrant thread winding through this rich red. Dense, fine-grained tannins support flavors of baked black cherry and blackberry paste, loamy earth, graphite and Earl Grey tea leaf. Long and plush, with the detailed profile echoing on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Unfolding in a way that captures the attention and imagination at once, this Veneto classic is a wine lover's must. Opening with aromas of blackberry jam, plum preserves, anise, clove and espresso, it might overwhelm at first but give it a second. The palate is rich and layered with flavors that deserve some time to develop. Black cherries, tobacco, vanilla and spice all swirl on the palate into an elegant and refined finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Restrained dark bramble fruit and vibrant spiciness, with notes of cold coffee, earth and bay leaves. The attack is dense and velvety, with thick, ripe tannins that are a bit sandy. Ripe and full-bodied with crisp acidity and good length focused on graphite. Power and grace, with a restrained chocolate aftertaste." James Suckling

Barolo Cerequio is darker and richer than the Cannubi, but it too shows plenty of elegance in its dark cherries, plums, spices, cocoa and roasted coffee beans. Aromatics, fruit and structure are very well balanced in this delicious medium to full-bodied Barolo. As is so often the case with this bottling, the voice of Cerequio comes into its own. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Polished oak and mineral red fruits. Fantastic, juicy, generous yet cool palate with red fruits. Elegant and with a perfect dose of firm tannins. A wine worthy of this cru." Jancis Robinson

"Flavours of dried strawberries, meat and rose stems follow through to a medium body, with firm and slightly chewy tannins and a medium finish. Straightforward and racy. Better after 2027." James Suckling

"The Michele Chiarlo 2019 Barolo Cerequio is a bold and elegantly concentrated expression with good weight and persistence. This added richness is the secret of this vintage, and this wine carries that weight with ease and grace. Flavours of dark fruits, plums and spices give the wine a lift on the palate. This bottle should age in the cellar for a few more years." Wine Advocate

"Cerequio is an iconic cru and does not disappoint. Immediately aromas of warmed cherries, mint, eucalyptus and mixed spices breeze in and out of the wine while savory and earth notes try their best to be noticed. Tannins are so well-crafted, they provide a strong foundation but feel light as a feather while fruit, herbs and earth flavors create a triumvirate that would make ancient Rome blush." Wine Enthusiast

"From the refined microclimate of Cerequio, 300 metres above sea level, south/south-east exposure, soil of blue marl and medium calcareous sandstone. Notes of strawberry tree, then rhubarb and floral nuances of gerbera. Salty, acidic tannins on the palate, firm and persistent on the finish, with a fruity, floral aftertaste." Luca Gardini

Every year, La Crena is one of the best and most refined Barbera wines that Piedmont produces. The vines in the Vigna del Nove parcel date back to the 1930s. This vintage will also need many years to develop its full expressiveness, but that's the way it is and we love this crazy development potential so much. La Crena is creamy and rich in the glass, dense, very concentrated with an abundance of layers of fruit that only develop fully with further years of ageing and make for an energetic, exciting wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense violet colour with ruby reflections and a brightening rim. Ripe fruit of blueberries and blackberries on the nose, some thyme, underlaid with cinnamon and dark chocolate. Powerful and balanced on the palate with a good acid structure and harmonious tannins, ending with a long final of fruit and spice." Falstaff

"The certified organic Vietti 2021 Barbera d'Asti La Crena shows a very good sense of balance with sweet and savory sides that transcend the bouquet. It starts off with redcurrant, a lightly floral note, rose hip and Amarena cherry. In fact, that sour cherry note continues to the palate, giving this wine a bright, red fruit quality that works with the darker side the Barbera grape." Wine Advocate

"Opulent bouquet with dark fruits, softened by a stylish oak. Smooth and juicy, fine texture, balanced by a strong acidity that adds some spice and flair to the finish. Vincenzo Arnese: Candied aromas of sour cherry and wild strawberry, very expressive. Powerful on the palate with robust tannins that will smooth out over time, but still very rich and pleasant." Decanter

"The Barbera d'Asti La Crena 2021 is exceptional. Bright, reddish fruit, chalk, mint, white pepper and rose petals are beautifully emphasised. Vietti has recently placed more emphasis on freshness in his Barberas, and this is particularly evident in La Crena - a wine that used to be very dark and heavy, but is now far from it. Clean, mineral notes prolong the lively finish. Give this wine a few years to develop the full range of its flavours. What a wine!" Vinous

La Poja from the vineyard of the same name is a great terroir wine in which Allegrini does not dry the grapes. Made from the indigenous Corvina grape variety, this red wine opens with inviting aromas of ripe black-skinned berries, cedar wood and spices. The elegantly structured, full-bodied palate offers spiced blackberries, liquorice and black pepper alongside fine-grained tannins. Dynamic, precise and very elegant in all its components, it offers maximum enjoyment and promises a terrific development. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, rich ruby colour. Opens with notes of fresh red cherries, some blackcurrant, but is also somewhat closed. Lots of velvety, well-integrated tannins, plus some milk chocolate with redcurrant, pithy, spans a wide arc, savoury." Falstaff

"The 2018 La Poja opens slowly in the glass as notes of crushed ashen stone and savory herbs give way to crushed cherries and blueberries. This is a decidedly delicate and finessed style. Brisk acidity enlivens its tart wild berry fruits as plum and dark chocolate notes evolve toward the close. The 2018 leaves a coating of fine tannins to linger, finishing with admirable length yet structured. Always a standout, La Poja is a varietal Corvina made entirely from fresh (not dried) grapes." Vinous

"Attractive aromas of dark raspberry jam, dried strawberries and figs with hints of dark chocolate, flowers and orange rind. Medium-to full-bodied with very silky tannins and lovely dryness to the mid-palate. Impressive concentration and length, showing a very long, persistent finish with juicy black cherries and bitter chocolate at the end. Nothing sweetish here." James Suckling

"Aromas of black cherry and plum combine with sandalwood, clove, allspice and savory herbs to woo you into the glass. Elegant, refined, structured and full in body, this wine is pure class. The dark-hued fruit flavors are integrated with the savory elements of the wine, where each plays a key role. The star of the show is on the finish where a distinct minerality reminiscent of chalk stands firm with a lift of acidity around it." Wine Enthusiast

"This 2018 La Poja is super-bright and herbal, with cool, sapid black and red berries accompanied by balsam, violet and lavender overtones. Precise and vertical yet silky-soft and succulent, it perfectly balances high acidity with creamy intensity, and needs more time to show its best." Decanter

The top red Riserva from the Bolzano winery has been the undisputed Lagrein Taber for years, with a fine bouquet of wild berry fruit, herbal flavours and spicy notes. Taber is a dense, full-bodied wine with a pleasant acidity and silky tannins, finishing with notes of candied fruit. A top wine from over 80-year-old vines on the Taberhof farm near Gries and a contender for the "Tre Bicchieri" of the Gambero Rosso almost every year. The best Lagrein Riserva in South Tyrol? Find out for yourself! SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep dark purple colour. On the nose, rich heart cherry, blackberry juice, dried violets, with fragrant black bread notes and some precious wood. Very juicy on the palate, tightly woven, fruity, stretches over the tongue with great and fresh notes, savoury, complex and drinky at the same time, exciting and vibrant." Falstaff

"The 2021 Lagrein Riserva Taber opens to plummy and very ripe aromas of blackberry confit, pitted prunes and a savory tone of suede or new leather. Lagrein usually has a pronounced creamy side, and you feel that here, especially in terms of the wine's thick texture and soft tannins. This 2021 vintage is thickly extracted and dense." Wine Advocate

"A dark and ripe red that impresses with aromas of liquorice, chocolate, cassis and mulberries. Full-bodied and fleshy, with chewy but soft tannins and generous, spicy oak that complements the ripe fruit. An intense Lagrein." James Suckling

"The classic, almost impenetrable, deep blackberry red colour that is so typical of this grape variety. Blackberry and sloe fruit dominate the nose and palate, with notes of dark chocolate and roasted spices. Full and round with ripe tannins, the wine is approaching an early peak but should keep well over the next five to seven years." Decanter