Brunello 2020 & Riserva 2019

Before Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini acquired the Altesino estate, she bought Caparzo in 1998. The estate comprises 28 hectares dedicated to Brunello, and this estate bottling combines vineyards from four different areas with different sites and soils.

Dusty black cherries, crushed rocks and dried flowers form a classically inviting bouquet when Brunello di Montalcino 2020 opens in the glass. It has a soft texture with racy acidity driving the ripe red fruits on the palate, while chalky minerals and sweet spices mingle towards the finish. Finishes powerful and long with fine tannins while retaining a lovely freshness. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Caparzo 2020 Brunello di Montalcino offers plenty of fresh fruit with cherry and redcurrant to the fore. This vintage manages to offer us a very elegant and slender style. The flavours increase in volume over time, adding notes of blue flowers, roses and toasted coriander seeds. It finishes with a lean consistency, silky tannins and medium length." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino emerges from the glass with a tantalising blend of crushed plums and wild berries, accented by lavender and floral notes of undergrowth. The wine displays a silky texture and airy feel, with tart red berry fruit accompanied by vibrant acidity, while a cascade of flowers swirl inside the wine. The 2020 leaves a layer of sweet tannins and a blackberry tone as it finishes with wonderful length and concentration." Vinous

"A bright red colour with firm, integrated tannins that provide length and concentration. It has a medium body with citrus and berry character and excellent length. I like it now, but give it two or three years to show its full potential." James Suckling

The 2020 edition of Col d'Orcia's Brunello di Montalcino wows with its brilliant ruby red colour in the glass and beguiles the nose with a cornucopia of crushed black cherries with hints of brown spice and sage - finesse complemented by notes of white smoke, cedar and dried roses. On the palate, it is seductive and supple; sweet red fruits are contrasted by a fresh and lively acidity and savoury spice, and its finely knit tannins rise slowly towards the end. The finish is long, structured and very balanced with a lingering aftertaste of tart wild berries, a hint of red liquorice and pretty flowers. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Spicy, brooding and a little rich on the nose with mineral notes. Lush but elegant cherry fruit with just the right dose of marvellous acidity and sandy tannins throughout. It can be approached, but ideally needs more age." Jancis Robinson

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2020 opens slowly with a blend of black cherry and minty herbal scents underscored by a hint of blood orange. It displays a silky texture and airy feel, with tart wild berry flavours and mineral tones underscored by rosy flowers. The 2020 still offers edgy tannins balanced by a hint of zesty acidity." Vinous

"A fresh and refined red with plum and orange flavours and fine tannins. It is medium-bodied, lively and concentrated. It is a little tight at the end, suggesting that it will open up in two or three years. A rather traditional Brunello." James Suckling

"Among the larger wineries in Montalcino, Col d'Orcia is also one of the region's most consistent values - especially given its solid ageing potential in most vintages. The 2020 is no exception. On the nose, it impresses with its lush richness, characterised by red cherries and strawberries. A subliminal flintiness and a mixture of sweet garden and exotic herbs unfold on the nose. A surprisingly powerful structure of dry, sandy tannins slows down its generosity, while leather and orange lurk in the stony core." Decanter

"The Col d'Orcia 2020 Brunello di Montalcino from organic farming offers a classic Sangiovese bouquet with a warm, spicy intensity. It shows sweet flavours of raspberry cake and cooked cherry. There is a subtle element of smoked spice in the background. The tannins are open and the wine offers immediate drinking pleasure. It should be exciting to follow the further development of this wine." Wine Advocate

When we discovered this winery by chance at the beginning of the 2000s, we were immediately impressed by the modesty and purism of the Biliorsi winemaking family. This is still the case today, they remain true to themselves and their philosophy and in good years, they produce just 10,000 bottles of a "slightly different" Brunello in the cellar.

Deep dark ruby red, with a bouquet of small black berries, cedar wood, forest floor and a fine nutty roasted flavour. The palate is multi-layered and powerful, with earthy, rustic nuances and a complex blend of dark fruit, precious woods, a fine plum note and some chocolate. Very intense, impulsive and long and not at all for lovers of polished, standardised wines. SUPERIORE.DE

"Complex and smoky wine. On the nose there is a dominance of graphite and toasted notes. Red cherries, raspberries and pomegranates are layered with floral nuances and leather. Firm tannins with supple fruit, medium body and a refreshing finish." James Suckling

"The organic Fornacina 2020 Brunello di Montalcino shows tart fruit flavors with dried redcurrant, Tuscan cigar and grilled herb. This pretty mix of aromas comes together with elegance and complexity. The bouquet offers pretty intensity, but the palate ultimately closes on a more powerful note with ample oak spice, freshness and firms tannins." Wine Advocate

Dark and seductive with a blend of crushed plums, brown spices, cedar and a hint of cocoa. Its textures are like pure silk bordering on velvet, with a gentle blend of ripe cherries and redcurrants, underlined by salty minerals, while notes of citrus contrast towards the end. A web of fine tannin runs through the final, creating a gentle textural pull that balances balsamic herbs and a hint of mocha as blue and violet-coloured flowers slowly fade away. SUPERIORE.DE

"This Brunello seduces with strawberries, tarragon and nutmeg. It's medium-bodied and tangy, flowing breezily over a cheerful candied pomegranate blossom. The just-ripe tannins give it a talc-like texture, and the lively acidity enlivens the finish." Decanter

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino shows its savoury side, with cigar smoke and cured leather leading onto dark fruits and baked blackberries. There's a hint of earthy minerality that adds focus and focus to the wine's medium-bodied finish." Wine Advocate

"A floral style in this tense Brunello, along with cherry jam in a positive, delicate way. Medium to full-bodied and firm with chalky tannins but ripe and refreshing acidity. Juicy overall, with a hint of blood orange in the aftertaste." James Suckling

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is particularly dark and rich in the glass, displaying a blend of plum sauce and grilled herbs underscored by a hint of mint and cedar shavings. It displays a texture of pure silk, appearing cool and supple with a core of tart raspberry fruit enlivened by fresh acidity. The 2020 maintains fantastic balance and poise, finishing classically structured and long, but still quite fresh. It may not have the power of bigger vintages, but impresses all the more with its graceful and yielding nature." Vinous

Generous Brunello made from grapes from different vineyards in various sub-zones in Montalcino with the classic aura of its vintage. The aromatically intense bouquet opens with a scent of violets and then develops flavours of wild berries, vanilla, tobacco and chocolate. The flavour is characterised by a good balance between full, juicy body, soft tannins and well-integrated alcohol. SUPERIORE.DE

"An immediately engaging nose offers preserved red cherry, plum, cinnamon and carob. Hints of Mediterranean forest weave through the wine. The palate shows a sunny, luscious ripeness, but is well integrated by the sandy tannins on the finish." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2020 seduces the taster with a marvellous bouquet of fresh strawberries and plums, underlined by sweet herbs and a hint of exotic spices. The wine is soft, round and quite airy in flavour, with vibrant pure red berry fruit underlined by a core of lively acidity. The energy remains high throughout, leaving a hint of steely minerality and sweet tannins that frame the experience nicely." Vinous

"Very pretty and floral with raspberries and black cherries on the nose, as well as violet undertones. Medium-bodied with chewy tannins that are nevertheless integrated and polished. Long, intense finish. Very well made for the vintage." James Suckling

"The Altesino 2020 Brunello di Montalcino opens with earthy tones and shows the character of the house, which is easy to recognise. This elegant wine offers a polished and smooth mouthfeel with finely balanced tannins. The oak is also skilfully used to reveal a light spiciness that is deeply integrated into a silky mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

The vineyard on the western side of the Montalcino hills is so secluded that you can enjoy the starry sky to the full without being disturbed. It is therefore not surprising that this supple, very classic Brunello bears the name "Sky of Ulysses". As is well known, Odysseus had the ability to navigate the seas without a compass and by simply orientating himself by the stars.

Cielo d'Ulisse 2020 is a cheerful and rich wine. The bouquet combines cloves with black cherries, sage and mocha to create an autumnal feel. It has a silky texture with fleshy red and black fruits balanced by savoury exotic spices and vibrant acidity. You can feel the grippy tannins increasing, yet there is so much primary intensity here that they hardly get in the way. The long finish is well-structured, juicy and thoroughly delicious with subtle notes of cherry pit and sweet herbs that linger. SUPERIORE.DE

"The fruit of a vineyard in the south-west of Montalcino: Accentuated bouquet with notes of red berries, leather, dried roses; harmonious texture with finely chiselled tannins, but also plenty of salty minerality and polish, finishes long and complex." Vinum

"The wine smells of concentrated black fruits, tobacco, roasted spices and fragrant caraway seeds. It has a warm, Mediterranean personality with sweet berry flavours on the finish. The tannins are open and velvety." Wine Advocate

"Dried black cherries combine with brown spices, ground coffee and a hint of cocoa as the dark and brooding Cielo d'Ulisse emerges from the glass. It feels silky, with lively acidity and cool wild berries that slowly saturate and are balanced by a hint of sour citrus towards the end. Pickling and long, the 2020 finishes classically structured with fine tannins and hints of sour cherry and liquorice." Vinous

Mastrojanni's 2020 vintage has a juicy, fleshy feel that adds to the overall intensity of the wine. In the glass, rich fruit, baking spices and a hint of rum cake. The wine is dark and velvety in appearance, the mouthfeel is balanced, smooth and lingering. It is quickly accessible with its full-bodied appeal and you can enjoy this wine over the next few years without having to wait long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Vivid black cherries are complemented by minty herbs, cedar shavings and hints of stone dust as the 2020 Brunello di Montalcino evolves in the glass. It floods the palate with juicy textures and ripe wild berry fruits as an air of lavender and sweet spice amass toward the close. The 2020 tapers off with spicy tension, leaving a tinge of sour citrus and a tart cranberry concentration, all framed by well-rounded tannins." Vinous

"The Mastrojanni 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is a little shy initially. A few more years, even months, of bottle age should get it to shine. The bouquet is detailed and precise with small forest fruits, dried rose, earth and light spice. It pieces together well over a bright, medium-weight mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"Restrained yet intense wine. The nose is fresh with red cherries and pomegranates, integrated violets and a rose-water touch, as well as a vibrant, schist undertone. Full-bodied and graceful, with super elegant tannins, juicy acidity and a long, tense finish." James Suckling

Gentle balsamic notes with rosemary and lavender scents on the nose. When it opens in the glass, you can get a clear picture of the dark fruit at its centre and the delicate particles of chalk dust that frame the bouquet. The fruit for this wine comes from a five-hectare plot with alkaline soils that are rich in numerous mineral components. The complexity of the soils is reflected in the attractive bouquet, and this outstanding Riserva vintage offers a rich structure, velvety tannins and persistent intensity. SUPERIORE.DE

"This wine is more characterised by blue fruits and shows blueberry pie, hints of violets and spice. Medium to full-bodied with a structure of grainy tannins and a good acid backbone. The finish is firm, the tannins slowly dissolve and become light as a feather. It needs a few years to mellow." James Suckling

"The Fornacina 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a decidedly powerful wine with aromas of candied cherries and orange peel peppered with exotic spices and cloves. The wine's tannins are fine-meshed, dense and rich. Like the Annata Brunello, the Riserva is made from the estate's five hectares of Brunello vines, but this particular selection results in a small production run of 2,666 bottles." Wine Advocate

Caparzo's La Casa vineyard, located in an enviable position on the hill of Montosoli, has been vinified separately since 1977 and is one of the first single-vineyard bottlings in Montalcino. Like the normal Brunello, La Casa has a surprising underlying acidity that gives the wine brightness and focus, and the northern exposure of the parcel has certainly played a role in this.

La Casa 2020 is a terrificwine with a deep ruby red colour and a bouquet of small red berries, cedar wood and spicy, fragrant flowers that opens up for minutes. Precise, taut and finely layered on the palate, with silky textures and a palate concert of savoury black cherries, spices, leather, tobacco and tar. Dense yet elegant as it progresses, the fine-grained tannins round off its perfect beauty. Very intense and with wonderful ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"As a cru from the Montosoli vineyard, this classic enchants with a complex yet multi-layered aroma of small fruits, violets and balsamic notes; polished in the mouth, it has precise acidity and fine-grained tannins, an intensely fresh fruit finish with a long finish." Vinum

"The 2020 shows itself in its warmer register with aromas of ripe blackcurrant and violets punctuated by juniper and flint. The palate is rich and supple, with a repetition of blackberries and a hint of chocolate in the background. The concentration in the mid-palate is good and overall it is medium-bodied, and its suede-like tannins provide a structured finish." Decanter

"From a single vineyard, recognisable by the old Tuscan farmhouse in the middle of the vines, this is a more concentrated and fleshy expression of Sangiovese. The Brunello di Montalcino Vigna La Casa 2020 opens with aromas of dark fruit, sweet earth and toasted oak. The finish is not too powerful, which is what gives this wine its elegant mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna La Casa is dark and imposing, with earth tones, crushed rock and savoury spice before its notes of wild berry fruit with flint. It is silky smooth, almost creamy in flavour, with an abundance of mineral cherry and strawberry tones and a hint of exotic spice towards the finish. The 2020 tapers off wonderfully perfumed and long, mixing violets and lavender with nuances of sour citrus over a bed of fine-grained tannins. The balance here is out of this world." Vinous

"This wine is really beautiful, with cherry, peach and orange peel character. It is medium-bodied with very fine tannins and a long, long finish. Creamy and very polished. It lingers for minutes. A graceful and complex Brunello 2020." James Suckling

Sandro Chia's remarkable 2020 vintage is taut, forward and downright bold in the glass. On the palate, it impresses with a lot of natural richness and beautiful opulence of fruit, complemented by varietal elements of wild cherry, blue flowers and soft earth. Secondary flavours of tobacco, cedar and cinnamon then quickly surprise, adding complexity and personality to the wine, which is built up in many deep layers. It has wonderful potential for further ageing in the bottle, but it is already an absolute delight and the quality of the fruit and its length make it irresistible. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is vividly fresh and focused, with a cascade of dried strawberries, minty herbs and shaved cedar forming its seductive bouquet. It is a paragon of purity, with silky textures and a graceful feel. It presents ripe red berry fruit accompanied by a tactile minerality. A gentle pull of fine tannins defines the finish. Notes of sour citrus fruits mingle with tart blackberries and liquorice." Vinous

"The epitome of elegance that is impossible to resist now, it has a light, gentle quality without lacking intrigue or nuance. It benefits from its lovely freshness, and its gentle tannins are seamlessly integrated, merging with and shaping a core of delicate wild berries. Hints of orange peel and ginseng permeate the wine, and the finish is characterised by a spicy note." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2020 clearly stands out from its competitors, as it is characterised by its seamless mouthfeel, bright fruit concentration and balanced freshness. It is aged for 24 months in oak and the grapes are harvested from a site with cool clay soils. The finish is soft and polished. If you want to buy an Annata Brunello from the accessible 2020 vintage, I would recommend this wine." Wine Advocate

The fruit for this wine comes from four unique vineyards at different altitudes, all located in different parts of the appellation. Le Ragnaies Brunello 2020 is a tour de force of Sangiovese that traverses the entire continuum of Sangiovese. It begins auspiciously with wild cherry, followed by pressed blue flowers, spices and floral earth. In addition to these typical tones, there are also cherry, blackcurrant and other classic Sangiovese flavours, followed by notes of dried mint and Mediterranean herbs in the impressive final. The lasting impression of this very special Brunello is its brilliance and purity, which delight us every year, especially with the wines from Le Ragnaie. SUPERIORE.DE

"This wine is a blend of vineyards in the south-east of Montalcino and in the north, as well as from the high-altitude vineyards of the estate in the centre of the region, and is a panoramic rendition of the Le Ragnaie vintage. It is influenced by the estate's preference for an early harvest, emphasising freshness and a medium-weight frame. Pomegranate is nuanced by rose, tobacco and forest floor. It is light on its feet with an elegant, straightforward backbone and has just the right amount of flesh on its bones." Decanter

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is incredibly fresh, combining wild strawberry and sweet herbal tones with stone dust and a hint of wilted violets. It is a model of purity, soft and round, yet focused with ripe wild berry flavours that soak up saline minerals towards the end. The finish is long and colourful but still fresh, leaving a salty tang and edgy tannins to frame the experience." Vinous

"Le Ragnaie's style is classic and emphasises transparency and freshness. His Brunello di Montalcino 2020 is a blend of fruit from different parcels. The majority of the blend comes from the vineyards in the immediate vicinity of the winery at high altitudes. What stands out is the focus and energy of the bouquet, with delicate berry and floral notes and even a hint of fresh mint. It has a polished texture." Wine Advocate

Andrea Cortonesi's Brunello di Montalcino 2020 shows its best side right from the start; it is a Brunello of profound beauty, intensity and complexity. The nose is characterised by a generous dose of primary fruit, primarily cherry and blackberry. This is complemented by wonderfully balanced secondary flavours from the oak, reminiscent of spices, cinnamon and dark smoke. On the palate, it explodes from the starting line and delivers a steady pace throughout. Subtle notes of spice and barbecue smoke add further facets to the impressive finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"It starts with an abundance of lavender, cinnamon and chocolate and develops into a palate of macerated cherry and blackberry coulis. The tannins layer up but are pliable. The warming alcohol also rises. The finish is infused with Mediterranean herbs." Decanter

"A compact and fresh Brunello 2020 with the character of red cherries, plums and peaches. Medium body, fine tannins and a tangy finish. It should be given two or three years to open up and soften, but it is already crisp and fresh. Simply delicious." James Suckling

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2020 is enchanting. Youthfully shy, it shows a minty freshness and a wild herbal thrust that gives way to bright cherry berry fruit accompanied by a hint of worn leather. This wine is energetic and lively, yet elegant, with crunchy wild berries and a cascade of sweet spices underscored by zesty acidity. The 2020 is tannic and powerful, but still fresh, with a finish of tart cranberry and sour citrus that shrivels the cheeks and leaves the palate wanting more. This is a wild vintage of Uccelliera's Brunello di Montalcino. It is structured for the long haul and is already a pleasure to drink." Vinous

The Cotarella family's Le Macioche Brunello 2020 shows balance and character, opening with bright cherry fruit, menthol, balsamic herbs, minerals and soft earthy tones. On the palate, the wine unfolds with lightness, silky and refined, with a pure presentation of ripe red berries accompanied by violet-coloured flowers and a hint of leather. Although grippy and structured, it remains energetic and fresh on the final, leaving a hint of violets and lavender. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2020 comes from 25-year-old vines, trained in Guyot. It shows an initial mineral note of crushed aspirin from Galestro soils, which sets the tone for elegant fruit and lightly toasted spices. This vintage offers a medium to full-bodied texture with soft tannins and lingering dark cherry flavours." Wine Advocate

"Rich and intense, the 2020 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a burst of crushed rocks, grilled herbs, brown spices and floral underbrush. It is velvety and seamless, with soft textures and ripe red berry fruits that gain tension towards the finish, while notes of sour citrus and a hint of dark chocolate add excitement. The 2020 is pleasantly full-bodied and long, leaving edgy tannins and a certain primary concentration without sacrificing freshness. This is one of the more structured and inward Brunellos of the vintage, with the balance to evolve beautifully." Vinous

"It has a nice firmness yet exudes juicy plum fruit, along with undertones of chocolate and orange. Medium body, creamy texture and delicious finish. Needs another two or three years to develop. Drinkable after 2027, but already lush and lively now." James Suckling

"The Sesta di Sopra 2020 Brunello di Montalcino offers a fresh fruit profile, with cherry and plum taking centre stage. There is a large fruit component here and an equally large oak component. It matures in 30-hectolitre Slavonian oak barrels. The wine has warm fruit and oak tannins that give the wine a bold and edgy profile. Around 4,000 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is profound, tantalising the senses with a blend of black cherries, wild berries and savoury herbs before evolving with hints of Tuscan dust and dried flowers. It is vibrant, bright and tangy, with brilliant acidity and a wave of bright red berry fruit that pours over the palate, leaving a hint of minerality towards the finish. A hint of liquorice mingles with blood orange and exotic spices as the 2020 finishes long and powerful, yet remarkably fresh." Vinous

"Fresh style with lively red cherries and violets as well as liquorice, tar and some blood orange. Graceful, full-bodied palate with velvety tannins and integrated, refreshing acidity. Very good fruit concentration. Elegance and grace. Already ready to drink and with potential for further ageing." James Suckling

Caparzos Riserva 2019 is a big, powerful wine that needs at least a few years to mature. Dark and brooding, this Riserva shows the more masculine side of Sangiovese. Black cherry, plum, leather, spices and tobacco lie on a firm beam of acidity and tannin. This red has the explosive energy and finesse of the dream vintage 2019 and it will take some time to mature until all the facets of this highly personal wine come together - but as always with top wines: patience is rewarded! SUPERIORE.DE

"Still youthfully restrained, the nose flirts with cedar, leather and heather, then the palate changes gear with its overtly powerful drive of substantial yet sophisticated chalky tannins and brisk acidity. By comparison, subtle flavours of wet stone and polished red cherry seem polite and tame for the time being. This will need time to develop into its full expression." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva opens with a mentholated freshness, blending crushed rocks and mint with hints of tobacco, flowery underbrush and dried black cherries. Silken and serene, this displays notable weight and concentration while maintaining freshness. Waves of texturally ripe wild berry fruits. and fine-grained tannins cake the senses. The 2019 finishes with dramatic length and structure, leaving a tinge of licorice to linger on." Vinous

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva makes a terrific first impression thanks to the intensity of its dark fruit aromas and its well-integrated spice. This is a full-bodied wine with deep layers of richness and velvety tannins. There is a hint of concentrated fruit sourness (and sweetness too, from the grape skins) that will subside as this takes on more age in the cellar." Wine Advocate

"Restrained, vibrant and fruity riserva with red cherries and raspberries, potpourri and even incense. Medium- to full-bodied with leafy flavor, velvety and ripe tannins yet chewy acidity and a chalky finish. Good blood-orange aftertaste. Better in two or three years but already so delicious." James Suckling

Anyone looking for the truth in Sangiovese will find it here: Laura Brunelli's Montalcino has been a stunning wine full of vitality, life and energy for years. It displays an almost outrageous degree of clarity and openness. It unfolds brightly and radiantly with lasting purity, elegance and length. This Brunello shows extreme precision and focus, both on the nose and in the mouthfeel. Wild berries, blue flowers and liquorice come together in perfection, and it is impossible to surpass this quality at this price. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just mid ruby. Cardamom and morocco-leather hints and iodine, minerally notes on the nose. Compact, youthful cherry-fruit palate with delicious chewy tannins taking the lead on the aromatic fruit finish. Great potential." Jancis Robinson

"Due to the high temperatures and dry conditions, Laura Brunelli says that quantities were even lower than the estate's already modest average yields. For this reason, she decided to forgo a Riserva in 2020, using the best of the production for this bottling. It exemplifies the beautiful floral character of the vintage, as scents of lavender and plum blossom leap from the glass. Exotic spice, cinchona and bitter orange contribute complexity on the palate, which reveals the summer’s warmth with seductive ripeness and yielding structure. It finishes with a gentle tug of talc-like tannins and some welcome tension." Decanter

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino entices with a seductive bouquet of crushed cherries and strawberries elevated by hints of mint, cedar and saddle leather. This is a more graceful and elegant style, with medium-bodied textures and pure wild berry fruit notes that ride a wave of brisk acidity. The 2020 echoes with nuances of licorice and blue and purple inner florals while leaving a subtle coating of fine tannins that frame the experience quite nicely." Vinous

"Balsamic and complex profile to this wine. The nose exudes dried flowers, licorice, raspberries and redcurrants. Very crisp and juicy, with full body and bony, chalky tannins due to its youth. Yet, it’s sweet and balanced on the finish. This needs a bit of time for better integration, yet it’s a gourmet wine with very good substance for the long haul." James Suckling

"The Gianni Brunelli Le Chiuse di Sotto 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is balanced, finely textured and shows smooth consistency over the palate. There is a lot of life in this vibrant Brunello. Red and purple fruits segue to sweet earth and iris root. I especially love the mouthfeel achieved here. It's that combination of richness and extreme silkiness that sets it apart." Wine Advocate

The grapes for Le Ripi's top Brunello come from a 4-hectare vineyard near Castelnuovo dell'Abate on the eastern side of Montalcino, not far from the Lupi e Sirene vineyard.

In the glass, blackcurrants, cherries, smoky minerals, incense and savoury herbs create a beguiling spectacle. Velvety on the palate with an abundance of polished, violet-coloured fruit that moves across the palate with admirable density, leaving behind minerals and a saturation of fine tannins. Amore e Magia is youthful, monolithic and finishes structured with hints of tart berries, plum and tobacco in the background. This wine is not for Sangiovese purists, but there is plenty of crisp fruit, sour cherry and cranberry in this powerful, vibrant Brunello. SUPERIORE.DE

"From a vineyard at 300 metres above sea level: a multi-layered potpourri of aromas of stone fruit, berries, blood oranges and blossoms; compact structure, robust tannins, combines substance and freshness. Convinces with its noble construction." Vinum

"Lustrous mid ruby with orange tinges. Amarena-cherry note with cinnamon and eucalyptus hints. Elegant and, at the same time, concentrated palate. Cherry and raspberry palate with a layer of finely ground tannins matching the elegant, aromatic fruit. Great lightness of touch." Jancis Robinson

"The 2020 Amore e Magia comes from the Castelnuovo dell'Abate area with unique white-clay soils. I can't think of anywhere else in the appellation with the same soil profile as this. The ground looks like powdery cement. The personality of this wine veers toward sunshine and openness. This wine's unique signature leans toward cherry liqueur, Recioto or raspberry rollup. The wine is rich in phenolics (you taste the texture of the grape skins), and the spicy tannins feel resolved but firm." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino Amore e Magia opens with an intense blend of blood oranges, ground cloves, cinnamon sticks and crushed stone embellishing black cherries. Silken and sapid, this displays notable weight offset by zesty acidity as vibrantly ripe red and blue fruits swirl throughout. Edgy tannins tug at the cheeks as the 2020 finishes dramatically long and spicy with notes of violet pastille and a sensation of liquid stone. Nicely done." Vinous

Before Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini acquired the Altesino estate, she bought Caparzo in 1998. The estate comprises 28 hectares dedicated to Brunello, and this estate bottling combines vineyards from four different areas with different sites and soils.

Dusty black cherries, crushed rocks and dried flowers form a classically inviting bouquet when Brunello di Montalcino 2020 opens in the glass. It has a soft texture with racy acidity driving the ripe red fruits on the palate, while chalky minerals and sweet spices mingle towards the finish. Finishes powerful and long with fine tannins while retaining a lovely freshness. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Caparzo 2020 Brunello di Montalcino offers plenty of fresh fruit with cherry and redcurrant to the fore. This vintage manages to offer us a very elegant and slender style. The flavours increase in volume over time, adding notes of blue flowers, roses and toasted coriander seeds. It finishes with a lean consistency, silky tannins and medium length." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino emerges from the glass with a tantalising blend of crushed plums and wild berries, accented by lavender and floral notes of undergrowth. The wine displays a silky texture and airy feel, with tart red berry fruit accompanied by vibrant acidity, while a cascade of flowers swirl inside the wine. The 2020 leaves a layer of sweet tannins and a blackberry tone as it finishes with wonderful length and concentration." Vinous

"A bright red colour with firm, integrated tannins that provide length and concentration. It has a medium body with citrus and berry character and excellent length. I like it now, but give it two or three years to show its full potential." James Suckling

Talentis Riserva is a barrel selection that is aged for 36 months in a combination of 25 and 20 hectolitre oak barrels and a small amount in tonneaux. Pian di Conte 2019 is a classic, stately wine with lots of dark fruits, dried blackberries, spices, tobacco and mentholated herbs. The palate is polished and elegant with sweet plums, cherries and blackberries on the attack. These sweet fruit nuances are followed by spicy cedar wood and campfire flavours, as well as fine tannins and an almost endless depth. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Talenti 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Pian di Conte has a dark garnet red colour and is characterised by high concentration and a spicy fruit profile with cooked plums and dried tobacco. Sangiovese always has an earthy side with some pressed flowers, and you get those flavours here. It finishes with fine-meshed tannins that give it more accessibility overall." Wine Advocate

"The Riserva takes its name from the hamlet of Pian di Conte, where the winery is located, near Sant'Angelo in Colle. It is made from the oldest vineyards on the estate - three plots surrounding the wine cellar - and is another barrel selection from these vineyards. The wine is very expressive, with aromas of mint, tarragon and aniseed, reminiscent of the dusty, unpaved roads of the region. Subtle woody spices and cedar wood blend harmoniously. On the palate, it is juicy and tangy, with concentrated wild berries. Yet it is relatively light, perhaps due to the lively acidity and refined, seamless tannins." Decanter

"A restrained and floral wine with elegant, defined fruit. It shows cherries, raspberries and a lively, earthy minerality as well as cinnamon and rhubarb in the depths. On the palate, it is full-bodied and shines with brightness and clarity of flavour, fresh with crisp acidity and velvety tannins. Spicy. Drinkable now, but with great potential for the long haul." James Suckling

"The Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Pian di Conte 2019 is intense, with a burst of split pine, cedar shavings, dried flowers and mentholated herbs forming its smoky bouquet. The palate is enveloped by a silky texture and ripe wild berries that take on a beautiful depth and flinty mineral concentration on the finish. Sweet tannins frame the experience, while the 2019 contrasts with a spicy hint of violet pastilles and tart cranberries on the finish. The 2019 still needs some cellaring time to develop, but it is a wonderful interpretation of the Pian di Conte." Vinous

Sweet red berries, flowers, mint, spices and aniseed are uniquely interwoven in this generous wine. The wine gains volume and depth in the glass as the flavours build to an unexpected crescendo. This is an exceptionally well-balanced and finesse-rich Brunello full of character, freshness and originality. The tannins remain firm, but there is enough density and complexity to the fruit that opening a bottle, even at a young age, gives no cause for regret. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is another very elegant expression of a sunny vintage that successfully focuses on a bright, fruit-driven drinking style. The Fuligni 2020 Brunello di Montalcino shows aromas of dark fruits, spruce cones, wild flowers and light spices. It gently envelops the palate with an elegant, medium-weight texture." Wine Advocate

"Seductive and sensual, this beauty exudes pressed dark flowers and all-encompassing Asian spices. Chestnuts and bitter roots counterbalance the sweet, glossy fruit that spreads across the palate. Long, chalky tannins wrap around the core of red cherry, which becomes increasingly dense, and a steely acidity cleanses the mouth." Decanter

"Smoky woods, dried flowers and earthy notes, then cherries and red berries. Liquorice roots are also present. The multi-layered fruit profile leads to a medium-bodied palate with additional roasted flavours. The firm, velvety tannins reveal a slightly bitter note on the finish, which is balanced out by the fruit and acidity. A powerful wine with plenty of character. Try it from 2026 onwards." James Suckling

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2020 is rich and voluptuous in the glass. It smells of autumnal spices, crushed raspberries, shaved cedar and dusty rose. It also impresses with a core of ripe red berry fruit that is deeply saturating and has a pleasing inner sweetness balanced by a savoury core of minerality. The 2020 leaves a high primary concentration on the palate with tart cranberry and liquorice notes and grippy tannins, while retaining a remarkable freshness. The 2020 feels spacious and has a skilful balance." Vinous

Le Macioche Riserva 2019 has the same slender and bright appearance as the Annata and the fine aromas of wild berries and cassis associated with Sangiovese. Racy and supple, it sweeps across the palate with a silky texture and shows tart wild berries and sour citrus fruit, all accompanied by lively acidity. The finish is long, with an earthy aftertaste. A very successful Riserva from a wonderful year, which has been interpreted very convincingly in this wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Compact and restrained, almost austere. Waxy character on the nose with crushed violets, luscious black cherries, a hint of cinnamon and the freshness of the forest floor. Smooth attack on the palate with full body and crisp acidity in combination with firm and velvety tannins, spicy and fruity finish, juicy and structured. Not quite ready to drink yet, but with plenty of potential for the long future. Try it from 2026 onwards." James Suckling

"The Le Macioche 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva reaches a beautiful new level of richness and concentration. The bouquet is full of dark fruit, cooked cherry and sweet tobacco. The tannins are silky, almost glossy in texture, and the wine is supported by a generous structure that gives this wine a duality between "drink now" and "wait for later". Only 2,990 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"Dried violets, crushed blackberries, sage and a hint of white smoke introduce the Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2019. It holds your attention throughout. Silky, almost velvety to the touch, with elegant waves of ripe red and black fruits that gain spice towards the end with a saturation of exotic spices. A wall of grippy tannins presses firmly on the finish, leaving a pleasantly bitter balsamic hint and nuances of blood orange, while the residual acidity leaves the mouth wanting more. The 2019 is a thoroughly classic wine that can only develop its full charm in the cellars. But there's a lot going on under the bonnet, and I expect great things in the next decade or two." Vinous

The Riserva Lupi e Sirene (Wolves and Mermaids) label is reminiscent of the good old days when Podere le Ripi was so remote that the howling of the wolves was the only sound you could hear at night.

Lupi e Sirene from the top 2019 vintage exudes a tantalising blend of exotic spices, crushed violets, medicinal black cherries and sweet mint. Its texture is silky and rich, beautifully balanced by the depth of ripe red and blue berries, as well as an enriching hint of almond paste. A certain decadence is complemented by saline minerals and bright acidity as the fine-grained tannins slowly assert themselves. The long, dramatic final is structured and packed with dark primary fruits, savoury herbs and a hint of mocha. Given a little more time to sort, this is one of the showpiece wines of the vintage! SUPERIORE.DE

"Just mid ruby. Savoury, meaty nose over concentrated, perfumed raspberry. Supple and fluid, minerally raspberry fruit with bags of fine gravelly tannins. Very long, perfumed and dramatic." Jancis Robinson

"Wickedly fresh, the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Lupi e Sirene bursts from the glass with shavings of blood orange, balsamic spice and minty herbs before settling on rum-soaked cherries. It's soothingly round and pliant with masses of ripe strawberry and blueberry notes, all guided by a core of brilliant acidity. Crunchy mineral tones emerge through the finish as the 2019 ends with a pleasantly tart sensation, leaving edgy tannins to resonate without detracting from its energetic persona." Vinous

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Lupi e Sirene is the standout bottle in this eclectic portfolio. This wine draws its fruit from a second site in Castelnuovo dell'Abate with reddish-brown magnesium-rich alkaline soils. These give a strong imprint to the wine that comes off as rusty nail or iron ore. Those mineral tones are folded into bright cherry, blackcurrant and candied espresso bean. In 2018, winemaker Sebastiano Nasello started experimenting with partial whole cluster. The tannins are more astringent in this case, and the wine should be given long runway to age. It delivers impressive focus and lift." Wine Advocate

Altesinos Montosoli displays the famous characteristics of this particular site, which are always characterised by a pronounced mineral intensity, with hints of crushed granite and lead pencil layers. The five-hectare vineyard has a higher concentration of Galestro clay-slate rock, and the altitude contributes to the freshness of the wine.

Aromas of undergrowth, ripe berries and exotic spices mingle with a hint of leather. The palate is firmly structured and straightforward, showing ripe Marasca cherries, cranberries, liquorice and tobacco, while tightly wound, fine-grained tannins form the backbone. The fresh acidity provides balance. It still needs a few years to develop fully. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Montosoli bottling from Altesino comes exclusively from the top of the hill, a steep, north-west facing parcel on slatey Galestro soil. Although it is by no means austere, it is cloaked in dark tones. Blackberry forest fruits, tobacco, nutmeg, truffle and balsamic herbs slowly reveal themselves. The palate is concentrated and vertical, while the firm, gravelly tannins take over with a satisfying bite, flowing seamlessly into the long, savoury finish. An inner juiciness is the big thing here." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Montosoli 2020 is haunting dark, blending dried violets and roses with hints of lavender and rum-soaked blackberries. The Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Montosoli is an elegant, silky and supple wine with mineral flavours of red berries underscored by fragrant aromas of blue and purple flowers. The 2020 tapers off with fantastic length and classic structure, with a hint of liquorice and a touch of residual acidity to maintain freshness. The 2020 treads lightly but leaves a big impact." Vinous

"The Altesino 2020 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Montosoli has a rich and syrupy side that emphasises the brightness of the fruit in this vintage. This core of dark fruit is framed by mineral notes of black slate and crushed river rock. On the palate, there is a beautiful mineral chalkiness that combines with the firm tannic structure of this full-bodied wine. The effect is elegant and clearly delineated." Wine Advocate

"A juicy and slightly tart young red wine with blackberry, cherry and bark flavours both on the nose and on the palate. It is medium to full-bodied with initially chewy tannins that soften towards the end but still leave the mouth tingling in a very animating way." James Suckling

Altesinos Riserva is fermented in steel tanks and matures for three years in Slavonian oak barrels. The top 2019 vintage has produced generous wines that are multi-layered and rich, but also tight at their core. This wine exemplifies this, bringing plenty of tart Sangiovese fruit and freshness. Also shows an impressive richness of flavours with dried cherries, liquorice, pressed violets, balsamic herbs and dusty limestone. The palate is beautifully polished and slightly fleshy, spreading out beautifully as it progresses, compact and harmonious, salty on the impressive final, as we really only notice with Casanova di Neri. SUPERIORE.DE

"This Riserva favours the estate’s most southerly vineyards in 2019, with the majority of lots coming from the Pianezzine site near Sant’Angelo in Colle. It is a rousing interplay of dark earthy nuance – wet forest floor, leather and mushroom – with sweet, luscious fruits. Here, wild strawberry and dark plum provide the backdrop. The tannins are silky and polished yet build with intensity and grip in this full-bodied offering. It culminates with a suggestion of iron before shutting down. Cellaring is advised." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is dark and brooding, with hints of black tea leaves, crushed rocks and smoke before giving way to the scent of dried black cherry. It balances silken textures with a pure mix of ripe red and black fruits as cooling acidity maintains a lovely balance. Aromas of citrus-laced blackberries mix with sage and nuances of licorice. This finishes long and potent yet still quite fresh." Vinous

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva shows more density and overall fruit weight. The wine also reveals thick textural heft and, ultimately, more dark fruit sweetness. It gives us a much bigger and richer interpretation of Sangiovese." Wine Advocate

"A very classic and telltale Montalcino. The subtle nose shows smoky woodland and forest-floor aromas allied to dried cherries and raspberries, dried roses and earthy minerality. The full-bodied palate has velvety tannins, a chalky finish, refreshing acidity and a tight, eminently floral finish. Drinkable now but best from 2028 or 2029." James Suckling