cult wines

Barolo Prapò comes from Serralunga d'Alba and is, as expected, the most powerful and structured of the various single-vineyard wines from this ambitious estate. At the same time, it is also the most closed at the beginning and, with its introverted nature, is made for a long ageing period. This site is one of the last where the grapes ripen, giving them plenty of time to develop slowly and carefully each year.

Bright, medium ruby-garnet colour. A potpourri of floral and spicy notes on the nose, plus some peach and strawberry. Very firm on the palate with initially sinewy Serralunga tannins and notes of iron, savoury, menthol, liquorice, lavender, preserved dark cherries and dried blackberries. With further aeration, an inspiring round and full mouthfeel emerges with such precise Nebbiolo stylistics that it is a joy to drink. Patience is required for this exceptional Barolo, which is guaranteed to be rewarded after a few more years of ageing in the bottle! SUPERIORE.DE

"Broad and dense, with plenty of power driving the cherry, raspberry, iron, stone and underbrush flavors. A bit closed at this stage, with the wall of stiff tannins leaving a strong grip on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The nose of this Prapò is very graceful - violets, cinnamon, almost sage and blood orange - and expresses all the elegance of Cerretta, to which this MGA is very similar. Refreshing and velvety, almost supple, it is a precise Barolo full of elegance despite a certain warmth in the dusty, intense finish." Decanter

"Soft and velvety, but very fine texture with a medium to full body. Open and juicy with strawberry and cherry character, as well as potpourri and sandalwood. Also roses. Best after 2026, but already very attractive and flattering on the palate." James Suckling

"Cru di Serralunga", a refined refinement that produces a very crisp fruit. Wild plum on the nose, then sage, toasted notes and floral nuances, gerbera. Spicy on the palate, with fruity hints and notes of medicinal herbs. Closes with spicy notes." Luca Gardini

"The Barolo Prapò 2019 is probably the finest Prapò I have ever tasted from Ceretto. Dark cherry, plum, lavender, rose petals, menthol, liquorice and spice are amplified in this broad, explosive Barolo. An enormous kick of Serralunga acidity and tannin emphasises the finish." Vinous

"Intense ruby colour with a slight garnet rim. Hints of black tea, some truffle, then lots of raspberry. Full-bodied and dense on the palate, shows plenty of present tannin, is very well integrated, flavours of plums and raspberries, fine melting in the final." Falstaff

"With aromas of dark cherries, preserved raspberries, cloves and dried roses, this wine floats from the glass with grace and class. The palate is firm and well-structured, with solid tannins and an energetic acidity that lifts the notes of mixed wild berries, tobacco and tea, finishing with a chalky minerality." Wine Enthusiast

"The organic Ceretto 2019 Barolo Prapò, whose fruit comes from Serralunga d'Alba, is a natural addition to a portfolio of wines representing some of the best cru sites in the appellation. This wine shows the particular power and fruit concentration for which this site is known, and also a lovely hint of sweetness with dried cherries and raspberries softening the mineral tones and ferrous flavours. This wine manages the balancing act between power and elegance - no easy feat." Wine Advocate

Named after the quartz speckles in the volcanic porphyry rock of Terlan, the most famous Sauvignon Bianco in Italy lives up to its name. Sparkling yellow-green in colour. Filigree, delicately scented with grapefruit, peach, honey and green papaya. Quartz is taut and precise, with a fleshy, creamy texture, great depth and a wonderful mineral-salty finish. Must have and must taste! SUPERIORE.DE

"Our Sauvignon selection, which has been given a truly characteristic name, is as filigree as the fine quartz crystals in Terlan's volcanic porphyry rock. The quartz is characterised by its fine texture and depth as well as a salty finish, which have now earned this fine white wine an international reputation." Rudi Kofler, Kellermeister Terlan

"Subtle grassy herbal notes lead to an expressive palate with lemon curd, guava and focussed mineral characters; refreshing and long." Decanter

"The flavours of melon, kiwi, Meyer lemon and notes of chive blossom and toast are very harmonious. A tantalising white that is skilfully knitted with razor-sharp acidity and salty minerality. It is long and creamy on the palate, with spice, mineral and herb accents on the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Sauvignon Blanc Quarz is very seductive, with a rich blend of savoury herbs and grapefruit zest underscored by a cooling hint of white smoke. It is bold and smooth with a medium body and a pretty inner sweetness that borders on decadent but is balanced by an energising core of zesty acidity. Candied lemon and lime resonate, while hints of salty minerality and chalk dust provide a perfect contrast. Like most Quartz vintages, this wine will age well over the medium term. Nevertheless, there is no harm in enjoying it now in this wonderful primary state." Vinous

"The Sauvignon Quartz is a very exact and precise expression, with tropical tones, crushed stone, tomato leaves and green papaya. There is a hint of sweetness, like candied pineapple or mango ice cream. I have always felt a special connection with this wine. There's a hint of pulverised quartz stone on the finish." Wine Advocate

"A sophisticated Sauvignon with a complex and aromatic nose that offers notes of glazed citrus and stone fruit with honeysuckle and melon rind. The palate is full and structured with a lively acidity. Creamy with the texture of ripe nectarine and an exciting mineral finish." James Suckling

"Cantina Terlano's usual fascinating journey into the potential of Sauvignon Blanc. On the nose, cedar wood, lychee, a hint of nectarine, then a menthol note and cedar thyme. Dense, crisp and exciting on the palate, with a fruity, citrusy finish and a long aftertaste." Luca Gardini

"Bright, sparkling straw yellow colour. Very intense nose, rich aromas of dark redcurrants and elderflower, with a hint of tomato green, exciting. Also shows great flavour on the palate, lots of sage, salty, beautiful melting on the final, lingers for a very long time." Falstaff

Tenuta Tignanello is located in the heart of Chianti Classico on the gentle hills between the valleys of the Greve and Pesa rivers and comprises 319 hectares of land, of which around 130 are planted with vines. The estate's vineyards include two jewels: Tignanello and Solaia, which are located on the same hill, on calcareous and schistose marl soils of marine origin from the Pliocene, and which benefit from warm days and fresh nights during the growing season. Two wines are produced from these vineyards, which many years ago had the potential to become the starting point of the Italian wine renaissance. Nothing has changed to this day.

Deep ruby red colour. Complex bouquet of ripe fruit such as cherry, strawberry and blackberry, with delicate hints of violet, mallow and rose in the background, followed by roasted coffee and some cocoa. Vibrant, full-bodied and very complex on the palate with primary fruit, elegantly integrated wood spice, pepper and liquorice. Tignanello 2020 is resonant, dense, breathtaking, almost regal. The balance and freshness of the vintage will ensure a promising further maturation and development towards even more finesse and elegance, which will certainly make this vintage one of the best in the long line-up of Tignanello vintages. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby colour with a delicate garnet rim. Very clear and precise on the nose, with a flavour of ripe, plump cherries and blackberries, plus delicate notes of chestnuts and blood oranges. Firm, savoury tannins characterise the palate, lots of juicy fruit, builds full-bodied." Falstaff

"A concentrated red wine with aromas of black cherries, blackberries, iron, tobacco and vanilla, framed by sweet spices and roasted flavours. It finishes with mouth-flattering tannins, but is quite balanced overall. Seductive and stylish." Wine Spectator

"The Tignanello 2020 shows a beautiful bouquet with an open-minded and accessible personality. Right away you can recognise dark cherries, dried raspberries, spices, toasted almonds and citrusy blood oranges. This vintage is very nice and will not require a long wait. The tannins are sweet and silky." Wine Advocate

"Delightfully approachable on the nose right away, with warm mocha notes and cool graphite aromas against bing and black cherries, and a palate that's equally outrageously delicious and easy to love even in its unbridled youth, with more cherries, blackberries, raspberries and chocolate inside a framework of tannins made to measure and acid built like an invisible force field." Wine Enthusiast

"The Tignanello 2020 is so original, so intensely fruity that it almost tastes like a barrel sample. A burst of red Sangiovese fruit opens first, followed by notes of blood orange, cinnamon, spices, dried flowers and mocha that develop later. With time in the glass, the impressive dimensions come to light. In 2020, the Tignanello is wonderfully supple and racy, with fine tannins lying beneath a core of bright, plastic fruit. The balance here is simply superb. I can't wait to taste the 2020 again as it ages." Vinous

"The ancestor of the Supertuscans in timeless form: Multi-faceted bouquet with aromas of black cherries, black pepper, orange zest and herbs; despite its youth, it has a cosy texture, tightly woven tannins, the acidity provides ageing potential, complex finish that tempts you to have another glass." Vinum

"Violets and lavender with dark fruits and a hint of dark chocolate. Sophisticated nose. Medium-bodied with a fine tannin structure that gives it finesse and beauty. It is very long and lingers for minutes. Precision. Drinkable now, but better in three or four years." James Suckling

"One of the first Italian brands with international appeal and at the same time a great terroir wine. Refined bouquet with notes of blueberry jam, undergrowth and black peppercorns, with a citrus-like finish. Salty on the palate, very persistent, fruity and spicy on the finish." Luca Gardini

Deep dark, almost impenetrable red colour. A whole range of ripe wild berries on the nose, delicately accompanied by nuances of tobacco, leather, cedar and lavender. The palate is also full of fruit, powerful, yet silky and elegant. Traces of dark chocolate in the endlessly long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Explosive and rich on the nose and in the mouth with ripe blue fruits, macchia spice, sweet tobacco, pepper and lots of balsamic. Already open, but still with strong tannins." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, compact ruby violet colour. Opens with intense notes of black pepper and galangal, then plums and blueberries. Full-bodied and dense on the palate, showing lots of present, dark fruit, grippy, still somewhat rough tannins, savoury and wild." Falstaff

"The 2020 Syrah Per Sempre is a sensual, beguiling beauty. Silky tannins and lifted aromatics lend tons of charm and immediacy. All the elements are impeccably balanced here. The 2020 is not a huge expression of the variety, but in exchange, it drinks very well today. Readers will find a Syrah built on finesse. Blue-toned fruit, graphite, leather, lavender and spice linger on the brilliant finish." Vinous

"This new vintage is simply great because it combines a sunny growing season with a grape variety like Syrah that thrives in these conditions. The Tua Rita 2020 Syrah Per Sempre offers juicy, full-bodied fruit with plenty of blackberry, plum, sweet spice and campfire ash. Stefano Frascolla deliberately avoids any eucalyptus or camphor-like flavours. Instead, he favours a strong primary fruit. This is achieved through the ripeness of the fruit, the care of the vineyards and the use of oak wood. Syrah has a short harvest window, so timing is important. The vineyards are planted on marl soils with slate rock, which are typical of the mineral-rich hills around Suvereto." Wine Advocate

"Seductive aromas of violets, blackberries, blueberries, flowers and sandalwood. Sophisticated. Full-bodied with super-fine tannins and good length. Stylish and grand. Very balanced. A hint of sweet tobacco and berries on the finish. You can drink it now, but it will age for decades to come." James Suckling

Batàr is undoubtedly reminiscent of Burgundy, but with unmistakable Tuscan authenticity. Vintage after vintage, Querciabella's forward-thinking winemaking has moved beyond the hedonistic idea of growing foreign, albeit noble, white grapes in a stronghold of red wines to focus on expressing a particular sense of place. The Batàr's inherent vitality and classic minerality clearly come from the high altitude vineyards of Ruffoli and the Galestro soils typical of the best Chianti Classico sites.

Batàr's legendary ability to defy age and improve over time requires a careful combination of hand-picked Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco grapes, timely micro-vinification and patient ageing in barrel. The long time on the lees in high-quality French barriques allows the individual lots to develop their best expression. Only when the optimal maturation is complete is the final assemblage put together through extensive sampling. Further maturation in the bottle before release seals the multi-layered texture that is the proverbial mouthfeel of Batàr.

Exudes elegant aromas of jasmine, peach and sweet tropical fruits and a lively minerality. Batàr secures its many admirers with great finesse and opulent diversity and has undoubtedly been one of Italy's best white wines for decades! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, light golden yellow. Very appealing and exciting note, first of flint, then mango, pineapple and some sage. Juicy in the attack and course, fine tropical fruit, shows good tension, creamy and long in the finish." Falstaff

"The 2019 Batàr, 50% Chardonnay/50% Pinot Blanc, offers up an exotic mélange of tangerine peel, pineapple, spice and passionfruit. The move towards a more refined style here has paid off big-time." Vinous

"Sliced apples, peaches, peach blossom, cedar and smoked almonds on the nose. It’s medium-to full-bodied with a creamy texture. Layered and delicious with subtle spice notes and ripe stone fruit, balanced by bright acidity." James Suckling

The grapes for Terlan's Ikonen wine come from vineyards at an altitude of 300 to 550 metres with volcanic porphyry rock. Powerful, attractively exotic bouquet with bright gooseberries, mango and pink grapefruit, backed by a captivating mineral flavour. There is also lemongrass and herbal, ethereal notes. On the palate, it is juicy and full-bodied, but not overloaded, instead deeply spicy, smoky, with a mineral-salty structure, followed by green-herbal notes in the focussed, mineral final. Every year, Quarz is one of the best Italian Sauvignon Blancs in its full splendour. As always, Cantina Terlano shows a skilful winemaker's hand in guiding the natural flavours of the grape, but also in delivering a very elegant interpretation. SUPERIORE.DE

"The name Quarz is derived from the quartz speckles in the porphyry. A powerful, smoky bouquet with fine Sauvignon Blanc fruit, blackcurrant, elderberry and hints of herbs and minerals. In the mouth, it is initially taut and tightly woven, but then also melting with a fine texture and marvellous accompanying mineral spice." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, light straw yellow with a greenish tinge. Finely characterised nose, opens with notes of gooseberries and fragrant elderflower, with spicy sage components in the background. Present, very well-developed fruit on the palate, extremely juicy with notes of white peach and lemon balm, very long, subtle salty notes on the final." Falstaff

"This lively, mineral white wine is long and graceful, with a hint of salinity that adds a delicious savoury note to the concentrated spectrum of nectarine, pink grapefruit granita, gooseberry, chive blossom and white pepper." Wine Spectator

"The 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Quarz is youthful and shy, opening with an airy bouquet that mixes crushed rock with dried flowers, a hint of petrol and nectarines. On the palate, it is a pure pleasure, soft and round, with juicy acidity and ripe citrus fruit mingling with salty, mineral notes. The 2022 finishes with excellent length and tension, leaving a hint of tart citrus notes. The 2022 is intense and made for the cellar." Vinous

"Aromas of fresh grass, lime and stone are followed by a medium body with bright acidity and a creamy texture. Intense, with plenty of length and flavour. Taut and polished." James Suckling

Luigi Moio is one of the most famous professors of viticulture and oenology in Italy and the Cru Vigna Quintodecimo is indisputably one of the most exciting and complex Taurasi Riserva in Campania. This wine possesses a unique and seductive class, a richness and elegance that outshines the entire volcanic appellation. The initially restrained bouquet only gradually opens up in layers, releasing new impressions every minute. Violets, ripe blackberries, blueberry skins, plums and white smoke unfold like a surprise bag and are reflected in the energetic mouthfeel together with finely woven tannins and a fresh interplay of fruit and acidity. The texture is impressively silky and emphasises the tremendous elegance and harmony of this exceptional Aglianico, which will reach its most exciting phase in 10-15 years at the earliest. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Taurasi Riserva Vigna Quintodecimo is wonderfully perfumed and spicy, as wild blueberries and lavender give way to incense and clove. This is silky-smooth and elegant. A wave of mineral-tinged wild berry fruits washes across the palate, leaving a web of fine-grained tannins in its wake. The 2019 leaves the palate stained in primary concentration, tapering off dramatically long and structured yet still remarkably fresh. Luigi Moio calls this his Bordeaux without Cabernet or Merlot. It's a remarkably refined rendition of Vigna Quintodecimo." Vinous

Alteni di Brassica - its name "alteni", the stone walls that border the vineyards, and "brassica", a yellow spring flower of the region, in no way suggest a wallflower existence. Rather, they are synonymous with the region's first Sauvignon Blanc, which Angelo Gaja has been growing since 1983. Orchard fruits, lime, mint, white flowers and white pepper lend this taut, nervy Sauvignon plenty of character and complexity. All elements are very well balanced. This is a great example of the Gaja style today. A highly elegant wine that impresses with its aromatic bouquet, fine fruit, great depth and beautiful length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Beautiful aromas of sliced pears and minerals with hints of stones and peaches. Medium to full body with a creamy texture and attractive tension and mouthfeel. Just a hint of youthful spiciness." James Suckling

Only vinified in the best vintages, it surprises with a bright garnet red. Bouquet of blackberry, violets and small sweet wild berries, on the palate cherry-like and then not at all arbitrary with a gripping acidity and a fine-grained tannin. A great, intellectual Brunello for the advanced connoisseur who likes it enigmatic and extraordinary. SUPERIORE.DE

"Finely chiselled bouquet of red berries, violets and Mediterranean maquis; linear attack, the tannins fine-grained and youthful, in perfect harmony with the acidity, very complex and powerfully pulling finish." Vinum

"The Poggio di Sotto is regularly the most Burgundian Brunello. Even its comparatively classic lighter colour reveals that (massive) extraction is not the focus here. The Burgundian-like aroma profile ranges from red fruits, red and dark cherries to floral-spicy notes. Violets, rosewood and exotic spices skilfully round off the elegant bouquet. On the palate, it is dense and full-bodied, yet elegant, juicy and finesse-rich, even if the somewhat more powerful vintage with grippy tannin and ripe fruit expression can be felt here. In the very multilayered final, the dark red and blue fruits with the fine spice come to the fore once again." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby-garnet with a slightly brightening rim. Initially shows fine spicy notes, after cardamom and cloves, dark fruit notes, after blackberries and dark cherries. Spreads out on the palate with fine substance, opens with grippy tannin in many layers, long finish, juicy." Falstaff

"Totally timeless scent, balsamic, subtle cranberry and cassis, cinnamon bark, tobacco, plum cake, long pepper, iodine and meat; very firm but now already very coherent, resting in itself, has a long life ahead of it." Meiningers Sommelier

"Bright flavors of strawberry, cherry and currant are at the core of this elegant red, which is balanced and long, with a fresh aftertaste evoking fruit and mineral hints. Firm, yet refined tannins should give this structure to evolve over the next decade and more." Wine Spectator

"Cherries and orange peel with cedar and pine undertones. It’s full yet fresh and lightly chewy with some citrus at the end. Shows tension and firmness for the vintage with a pretty form and purity. From organically grown grapes. Better after 2022." James Suckling

"Poggio di Sotto made 50% less wine in 2017 and will not release a Riserva. Maceration times were shorter than usual – just 25 to 30 days for the Brunello. It also spent three rather than four years in wood to avoid over-concentration. Aromas of steeped red berry infused with dried thyme and scorched orange peel make a heady first impression. The palate is mouth-filling and shows lovely purity of cherry and raspberry at the core. Concentrated in acidity with finely powdered, finessed tannins, this reveals just a hint of astringency on the orange liqueur and amaro finish." Decanter

"A captivating mix of ripe plums, strawberries, cloves, violet pastille, balsam herbs and white smoke emanates from the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino. This is undeniably elegant in feel, showing a weight unexpected from a young Poggio di Sotto, yet working in perfect harmony, with tart cherries and wild berries drenching the palate in primary concentration, as saline-minerals and brisk acids add energy and verve. There’s simply so much going on here that each return to the glass reveals something new. The tannins are sweet and rounded, and while structured, this remains fully satiating and fresh, as hints of lavender and black currant slowly fade. It’s totally atypical of a young Poggio di Sotto, yet also a wonderfully unique expression of the vintage, one that should mature evenly in spite of the drastic climatic conditions. What’s more, winemaker Luca Marrone chose to shorten the aging in wood by an entire year. The 2017 is a wine that’s not to be missed." Vinous

"Once again raw material of great crunchiness for an immovable of this typology. Nose of blackberry, with touches of dried thyme, then rhubarb and floral-balsamic finish. The mouthfeel has density and crunchiness, iodized tannins, nice length, with a fruity ending." Luca Gardini

"Made with certified-organic fruit, the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is an impossibly graceful wine from a challenging vintage. This bottle defies the odds-and the dry heat of the growing season-to reveal soft layers of cherry, cassis and more vibrant fruit. It glides clear over the palate with silky momentum, and you only notice the tannins at the very end. Even those should soften and integrate as this collectible wine continues it bottle evolution." Wine Advocate

Intense ruby red with garnet reflections. Rich and complex bouquet, with numerous hints of black fruits and underlying notes of vanilla, oak, some tar, liquorice and cocoa. Full, powerful, full of character, but at the same time elegant and sensual taste with a delicately sweet aftertaste, harmonious and very delicate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense ruby red. The nose is very broad and shows structure and complexity. Notes of ripe red fruits, liquorice, vanilla and toasted wood, also hints of leather and cocoa powder. Juicy on the palate, elegantly full-bodied, harmonious and persistent finish." Falstaff

"The 2019 Barbera d’Asti Ai Suma is laced with blackberry jam, crème de cassis, sweet spice, licorice, lavender and plenty of sweet French oak. Silky and supple, with terrific balance, this decidedly extroverted Asti Barbera delivers the goods, and then some." Vinous

Tenuta Tignanello is located in the heart of Chianti Classico on the gentle hills between the valleys of the Greve and Pesa rivers and comprises 319 hectares of land, of which around 130 are planted with vines. The estate's vineyards include two jewels: Tignanello and Solaia, which are located on the same hill, on calcareous and schistose marl soils of marine origin from the Pliocene, and which benefit from warm days and fresh nights during the growing season. Two wines are produced from these vineyards, which many years ago had the potential to become the starting point of the Italian wine renaissance. Nothing has changed to this day.

Tignanello is more classic than ever in the excellent year 2021. The tried-and-tested blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc comes to the fore with impressive clarity and attention to detail. The fruitiness of the wine is perfectly controlled and polished, there is no exaggeration, no excesses and no loose ends. The result is precise and sophisticated, especially considering the handling of the tannins (aged for up to 17 months in new and used Hungarian and French oak) and the quality of the elegant mouthfeel. With time in the glass, all the elements come together to form a perfect unity and balance. Simply put: a great wine! SUPERIORE.DE

"The currants and spices are very pretty, with some hazelnut undertones. Medium to full-bodied with juicy tannins and a flavourful finish. Very structured for a Tignanello, with medium-bodied tannins and a flavourful finish. Very polished and curated, with a skilful winemaker's hand coming through." James Suckling

"Infused with pure cherry, strawberry, graphite and tobacco aromas and flavours, this red is beautifully supported by a backbone of vibrant acidity and taut, refined tannins. It's all framed by vanilla and toasted oak in the best sense, revealing harmony, with a long, orange-coloured finish and, yes, even drinkability at this stage. Best give it a few more years in the bottle." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Tignanello is just as impressive in the bottle as it is in the barrel and shortly after bottling. Silky and polished, with exceptional finesse, the 2021 has what it takes to become a modern benchmark for Tignanello and Italian wine in general. Bright dark red fruit, blood orange, spice, cedar and sweet pipe tobacco rise from the glass, framed by a subtle hint of French oak that gives the wine race. In some vintages, the individual elements are clearly recognisable. In the 2021, it is the total harmony of the wine that leaves the strongest and deepest impression. Outstanding." Vinous

"This legendary Italian wine, which was first produced in 1971, is now celebrating its 50th birthday. Happy birthday, Tignanello! The Marchesi Antinori 2021 Tignanello (made from 79% Sangiovese, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Cabernet Franc) makes everyone's heart beat faster. The wine shows a thoroughly pretty flavour profile with aromas of tart fruit, redcurrants, tea leaves, roses, crushed white pepper, liquorice, nutmeg, cloves and chopped mint. It opens slowly to reveal more richness and exuberance over time, becoming downright lush and intoxicating a short time later. However, the through-line remains the bright freshness and minerality of the Sangiovese. Compared to the 2018 vintage (which I also liked very much), this vintage has more fruit weight and volume overall." Wine Advocate

Roagna's Barbaresco Pajè already has a great need to communicate in its youth and shows itself open-minded and with multi-layered aromas, full-bodied and in harmonious balance. An extraordinary pleasure for the next 20 years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red. Pajè discharges in unerring salvos of raspberries and sour cherries as well as laurels and walnut shells, its shimmering ethereal top note reminiscent of asphalted roads on the high summer horizon. Mild spices like cloves, black pepper and dried cherries are a recurring thematic theme like the theme tune of a monumental soundtrack. Mercilessly dry on the palate with beguiling extract sweetness. Grown on vines over 80 years old, the fruit and spice notes of the nose are accurately reflected on the palate and are firmly coated like Kevlar by ripe, tightly woven tannins. Complex and multi-layered, it flows across the palate with a silky feel, almost floating, and its fruity, ethereal finish seems almost weightless with an extra-long finish. Large glasses and time are the weapons of choice." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"The 2017 Barbaresco Pajè offers a compelling blend of sweet red fruits, cinnamon, blood orange, leather, cedar and tobacco. The 2017 impresses with its medium weight structure, which unfolds well with a little time in the glass and shows its natural breadth and creaminess. There's a good amount of immediacy and overall appeal here too." Vinous

"A tightly wound, sleek red marked by floral, cherry, menthol and mineral aromas and flavors. Reveals ripeness midpalate and builds to a lingering, detailed finish. Shows plenty of energy and complexity." Wine Spectator

"Showing a transparent or almost naked fruit quality, the 2017 Roagna Barbaresco Pajè is a beautiful and graceful wine that retains an exceptional sense of lightness and elegance despite everything we have heard about this hot and dry vintage. The finish of the Pajè is exceptional, with chiselled aromas of wild berries, iris root, liquorice and a subtle hint of white pepper. The mouthfeel is characterised by extremely fine tannins." Wine Advocate

"Bright ruby red with bright orange reflections. In the nose wild mushrooms, black and even some white truffle, plus rosehip tea, red currant and blackberry. Freshly ground pepper and crushed juniper provide spice and plenty of ethereal aromas. Clear, bright and precise on the palate. The fruit comes out much more clearly now. Totally juicy and fortunately flanked again and again by the acid structure. Invigorating, animating to drink and slender. The fruit now appears small-berried and positively acidic on the palate. The initially earthy aromas only have a subordinate effect in the finish. The show clearly belongs to sour cherry, lovage and blackberry. Iodiney, almost salty and with a fleshy character, it makes you want more. This is pure umami." Marian Henß (Sommelier)

"The 2017 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is silky and polished from the start. Nevertheless, there is a lot of depth behind the elegant façade. Juicy red fruits, spices, tobacco, cedar, leather and dried flowers combine in a sensual, lush Barolo that captures the essence of Rocche." Vinous

"A juicy red wine with aromas and flavours of soaked cherries, raspberries and plums. It gains depth with accents of flowers, earth and wild herbs as it transitions into a long, delicious finish. Skilfully balanced and persistent on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Roagna has its modern winery, with most of the structure underground, at the foot of the Castiglione Falletto village at the center of the appellation. Made with fruit grown around the corner, the 2017 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione (with 2,680 bottles released) offers a sharp and linear presentation with crisp berry fruit, crushed stone, rose and licorice root. This is one of the most expressive vineyard sites in the appellation, I find. The wine ferments in oak over two months with submerged cap and then ages for five long years in a combination of oak cask and cement." Wine Advocate

The fruit for this exceptional Brunello, produced only in the very best years, comes from a five-hectare vineyard in the northern part of the appellation and there are then just 1,500 bottles of it. Very fluid and graceful bouquet, incredibly deep and complex, with sweet extract, great richness and finest wood, almost impenetrable. Full-bodied and fine at the same time on the palate, with freshness, great structure and a precise focus on dark fruits, pressed rose petals, graphite, smoked spices and hints of savoury smoked meat. Eternally long and fine-mineral finish with a slightly salty note. The essence of Sangiovese with the best possible harmony of elegance and complexity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny, rich ruby. Opens with notes of smoke, then lots of dark fruit, wild raspberries and blackberries, some liquorice in the background. Full and substantial in the attack and course, presents itself with powerful tannins, powerful depth, firm pressure in the final, can still be stored for a long time." Falstaff

"Paying homage to founder Pacenti Siro, PS is sourced from a 1.5-hectare plot which he planted in the early 1970s. Suitably restrained, it takes its time to open. Initial roasted, grilled notes speak to ageing in 100% new French oak barriques, but there is plenty more as it unfolds: sage, fennel and fragrant florals poke through. The palate is polished, sophisticated and buoyed by racy Sangiovese acidity. The tannins are chalky, almost clayey, as they cling to the palate, and it finishes with a stony, mineral-like sensation. Give this a few years for the tannins and oak to mellow and merge." Decanter

"There's beauty here, no doubt, but the stylistic preference for 100% new oak on Sangiovese is forever controversial and debatable. The wine's appearance is almost impenetrable, and the bouquet is well-integrated with black fruit, spice and balsam notes." Wine Advocate

"The purity of fruit here is so stunning with blackberry, black-cherry, black-truffle and floral aromas, as well as orange peel. It's full-bodied and very compact with ultra fine tannins that are copious and balanced. It goes on for such a long time. The purity and precision is something else, not to mention the length and depth. So delicious now and a joy to taste." James Suckling

Roagna's Barbaresco Pajè already has a great need to communicate in its youth and shows itself to be open-minded and with multi-layered flavours, full-bodied and harmoniously balanced. An extraordinary pleasure for the next 20 years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red in colour. Pajè unleashes itself in unerring volleys of raspberries and sour cherries as well as laurels and walnut shells, its shimmering, ethereal top note reminiscent of tarmac roads on the midsummer horizon. Mild spices such as cloves, black pepper and dried cherries are a recurring theme, like the title melody of a monumental soundtrack. Mercilessly dry on the palate with a beguiling extract sweetness. Grown on vines over 80 years old, the fruit and spice notes on the nose are accurately reflected on the palate and are encased in ripe, tightly woven tannins like Kevlar. Complex and multi-layered, it flows over the palate with a silky feel, almost floating, and its fruity, ethereal finish is almost weightless with an extra-long aftertaste. Large glasses and time are the weapons of choice." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"Sparkling, medium-dense ruby-garnet colour. Finely characterised nose with notes of dried rose petals, strawberry and wild raspberry, some plum. Fills the palate full, finely sweet fruit with great melting, opens with present, savoury tannin, full-bodied and with firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"The Barbaresco Pajè 2018 is a brooding, introverted wine. Mineral and spicy notes dominate, while the fruit remains in the background. The Pajè has developed wonderfully since my first tasting a few months ago. The flavours in particular are very expressive. Like all the 2018s here, the Pajè is a Barbaresco of unobtrusive complexity. It will be interesting to see whether the lively tannins give way a little." Vinous

"Fresh, lively and straightforward in profile, even racy, this red wine shows flavours of strawberries, cherries, hibiscus, iron and cut hay, with a lively structure, fine harmony and a long, fruity and mineral finish." Wine Spectator

Deep, full red with a fine sheen. The La Morra edition from Vietti's famous Barolo family convinces with an impressive aroma of red berries, cherries, wild herbs, mint, minerals and rose petals, rounded off with a hint of blood orange. The palate is opulent, full, with fine sweetness and structure, and the multi-layered, long final is accompanied by downright aristocratic tannin. A typical Vietti cru with a lot of class. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Exciting and complex in the nose, shows notes of cardamom, some leather, then lots of plum and raspberry. Taut and gripping tannin on the palate dominates the course, fine raspberry fruit, unfortunately a bit brittle on the final." Falstaff

"The 2017 Barolo Brunate is a powerful, brooding wine. Huge dark fruit, leather, spice, menthol and dried herbs all build in a potent Barolo that is enshrouded by tannins. The 2017 is going to need quite a bit of time in the cellar. Today, it is very much a brooding powerhouse. Dark wild cherry, licorice, tar, menthol and spice take shape in the glass, but the 2017 is clearly an infant, and an unruly one at that." Vinous

"A release of 4,981 bottles, the Vietti 2017 Barolo Brunate is beautifully rich and fleshed out, with balanced fruit weight and inner structure. The bouquet reveals tart cherry and cassis, but the Brunate also shows a more delicate side, with crushed flowers, dried violet and polished stone. The power of this cru creeps up on the palate, where you feel the tightness of its fiber and tannins. Following that delicate aromatic preface, this Barolo ultimately delivers a strong, cellar-worthy performance." Wine Advocate

"A ripe, fleshy style, offering plum, cherry, leather, menthol and iron aromas and flavors. Hints of rose and strawberry peek through as this builds to the long finish. There are formidable tannins too, yet they remain civilized and should allow this to develop nicely over time." Wine Spectator

"Beautiful, sweet fruit and perfumes on the nose with fresh flowers, such as roses. Full-bodied with fine, dusty tannins and a long, persistent finish. Very caressing. Builds on the palate at the end." James Suckling

Marilisa and Franco Allegrini dedicated this single-varietal Cabernet Franc from their own vineyards on Via Bolgherese to their eldest brother Walter, who passed away in 2003. The 2015 vintage marked the beginning of an even more radical focus on the terroir and the quality of the grapes. Since then, a third fewer bottles have been filled each year, resulting in a Bolgheri Superiore from the estate's own grapes from the Bolgheri core zone that is hard to beat in terms of elegance and character. Compact and elegant Cabernet Franc with a fine tobacco note, ripe blackcurrant flavours, some pepper and eucalyptus, plus slightly earthy tones. Dense fruit and polished tannins on the palate, clear, rich final. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Poggio al Tesoro 2019 Bolgheri Superiore Dedicato A Walter has oak-accented flavours of popcorn and caramel on toasted nuts, dried fruit, baked plums and baking chocolate. There's a lot going on in the mouthfeel and on the palate. These oak-accented tones are very pleasing given the richness and texture that this wine handles so well." Wine Advocate

"Lavender and toasty oak aromas lead off, with flavors of black currant, blackberry, iron and leafy bell pepper. This red is lithe and complex, driven by vibrant acidity, with fine harmony, varietal expression and length." Wine Spectator

"The Bolgheri Superiore Dedicato a Walter 2019 is great. Here, the extracted style works well to bring out the essence of the Cabernet Franc. Dark fruit, leather, smoke, chocolate, tobacco and cloves give the 2019 an impressive depth. Although it is very intense, the 2019 is by no means over the top. It offers great depth and intensity, with all elements very well balanced." Vinous

"The nose is a light lunch on a rocky beach, where the dusty stones contrast with the spiciness of bresaola and the richness of the sweet chilli jam. The jam spreads across the palate, but the meatiness isn't lost either, before a crackle of black pepper introduces a lingering finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Cabernet Franc in purezza, which impressively demonstrates how well the terroir is suited to this grape variety: Intriguing cherry-bitter chocolate bouquet, tinged with spicy notes; the attack is powerful, the fine-grained tannins and acidity in balance, elegant finish with plenty of fruit and noble character." Vinum

"Beautiful fruit and freshness with a brightness and energy that lifts the wine. It is medium to full-bodied with a bright and juicy palate. Blackcurrant and yellow pepper with some orange blossom. It is bright and fluid in an intriguing way. It's drinkable, but it will only get better with time." James Suckling

Deep dark, almost impenetrable red colour. A whole range of ripe wild berries on the nose, delicately accompanied by nuances of tobacco, leather, cedar and lavender. The palate is also full of fruit, powerful, yet silky and elegant. Traces of dark chocolate in the endlessly long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Noble, fragrant nose of juicy wild berries and fine precious wood, plus bread clover, milk chocolate, fine citrus fruit and light spice on the finish. On the palate, it has a noble mellowness and clear, radiant fruit, with compact, juicy tannins and great juiciness, lively, full of energy, still young, will mature magnificently." Falstaff

"The 2021 Syrah Per Sempre is a potent, tightly wound wine. Its freshness and structure are admirable, but readers should expect a wine that will require cellaring. The 2021 is far from the more bombastic early editions of Per Sempre. Savory, floral and mineral notes abound, while primary fruit lies more in the background. Oak impact has also been diminished substantially." Vinous

"The flavours of red fruits with nutmeg and cinnamon come through clearly, as well as notes of light cedar wood. It is full-bodied with a tight and concentrated palate and very, very polished tannins. They feel slightly powdery, with good tension before the long and lively finish. Better after 2027." James Suckling

"The Tua Rita 2021 Syrah Per Sempre is a beautiful wine that has tremendous richness and softness without being heavy. There are soft fruit tones that are offset by cinnamon and sweet spice. The wine is opulent, but at the same time offers an exciting tension." Wine Advocate

The Carricante grapes for this extremely rare Etna Bianco come from phylloxera-resistant (pre-phylloxera) vines from a single vineyard on the eastern slope of Etna at an altitude of 800 metres. Only a single oak barrel is filled each year, resulting in less than 2,000 bottles per vintage.

Rich golden yellow with amber-coloured accents. Complex and well-structured aroma of herbs, yellow fruit and flint. Indescribable depth on the palate with a salty note, fresh fruit and mineral persistence. The final is firm and precise, the tension is perfectly balanced and the long-lasting impression is unique! SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep straw yellow with copper-coloured reflections. Serious, concentrated but restrained bouquet with hints of exotic spices, dried apricots and cedar wood as well as a faint hint of brioche. Initially straightforward and dense, it then opens up on the palate. Viscous lemon and grapefruit with a very subtle tannin structure. The finish is characterised by citrus fruits that provide a thrill. Complex, long and needs further bottle ageing." Jancis Robinson

"Ripe, slightly honeyed dried citrus, grilled pineapple and spice on the nose, following though to a medium palate with a tight bead of dry spice and fruit. Compact, slightly challenging finish for now." James Suckling

"Made from grapes from 100 to 120 year old vines, this deep golden wine has enticing aromas of lychee, Spanish broom and wet stone. Round and enveloping, the elegant palate also shows depth and concentrated flavours of creamy pear, ripe yellow peach and tangy salinity alongside bright acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"Here is a wine that will keep Carricante lovers on their toes. The Pietradolce 2018 Sant'Andrea opens with a saturated golden colour and offers completely unexpected aromas of candied almonds, apricots, honey, saffron, pastry cream and so on. The complexity of the wine reveals additional layers of roasted herbs and crushed stone. Prolonged maceration on the skins is the particular style of vinification that gives Sant'Andrea its unique identity. There is a hint of dusty tannin on the finish. This wine is bottled in an edition of 1,800 bottles." Wine Advocate

"The frosted brass sheen of this profound white wine, along with tantalising aromas of sun-warmed peach skin, saffron and oyster shells, draw you into the glass where a rich palette of flavours awaits. Notes of dried apricots, white cherries, orange pits, almond shells, cloves and honeycomb are underpinned by a fine, chalky texture and pronounced acidity with a hint of Mediterranean scrub." Wine Spectator

"It's very floral and fragrant, with a structured, waxy palate that has addictive notes of grapefruit, apricot skin, baked apple, exotic spices and even a grappa/grape skin component. It's really fresh, yet rich and complex and will be rewarding for cellaring." Decanter

The pure Pinot Nero Franciacorta Annamaria Clementi Rosé is bright pink in colour with delicate amber tones. It beguiles the senses with a subtle bouquet of dried strawberries and zesty citrus fruits, contrasted by the richness of raw almonds and sweet white smoke. It is silky and supple, with a slowly rising structure, yet still manages to surprise with notes of apple and savoury spices, which are then enlivened by a juicy acidity. There is a lingering inner sweetness that mingles with an aftertaste of concentrated red forest berries that lingers for over a minute. One of Italy's greatest sparkling wines! SUPERIORE.DE

"A luminous shade of pink with an orange hue, the 2015 Extra Brut Rosé Annamaria Clementi Riserva is just as seductive to look at as it is to taste. A whiff of cedar shavings and dried strawberries give way to hints of brown spice and crushed almonds forming its dusty and perfumed bouquet. It impresses further with an elegant wave of super-fine bubbles that envelop the palate with mineral intensity. A tinge of tart orchard fruit adds further tension toward the close. It's rich, potent and wonderfully fresh, finishing long with an air of hazelnut custard that lingers on and on." Vinous

"Strong copper colour. Restrained nose with strawberries and leaves and a well-integrated roasted note. Medium-bodied and very fresh. On the palate, it is precise and tightly meshed, with the finest bubbles, crisp acidity and an amazing finish of redcurrants." James Suckling

Barolo Rocche di Castiglione comes from a parcel just above the Cascina Pira of Roagna. It offers a captivating blend of supple fruit, soaring flavours and structure. The 2019 is silky and sensual through and through, as wines from this vineyard tend to be. It is transparent, beguiling and mesmerising from the very first sip. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with light, orange-coloured reflections. Forest mushrooms, black and even a little white truffle on the nose, plus rosehip tea, redcurrant and blackberry. Freshly ground pepper and crushed juniper provide spice and plenty of ethereal flavours. Clear, bright and precise on the palate. The fruit is now much more prominent. Totally juicy and fortunately always flanked by the acidity structure. Invigorating, drinkable and lean. The fruit now appears small-berry and positively acidic on the palate. The earthy flavours at the beginning are only of secondary importance in the finish. The show clearly belongs to sour cherry, lovage and blackberry. Iodised, almost salty and with a fleshy character, it leaves you wanting more. This is pure umami." Marian Henß (Sommelier)

"The 2019 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is all sensuality. Silky, aromatic and super-expressive, the 2019 Rocche is all class. Crushed flowers, spice, leather and crushed red berry fruit all grace this wonderfully nuanced, sublime Barolo. All the elements are so well-balanced. Silky tannins pull it all together on the finish, and this builds beautifully over time." Vinous

Roagna's Barbaresco Pajè already has a great need to communicate in its youth and shows itself to be open-minded and with multi-layered flavours, full-bodied and harmoniously balanced. An extraordinary pleasure for the next 20 years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red in colour. Pajè unleashes itself in unerring volleys of raspberries and sour cherries as well as laurels and walnut shells, its shimmering, ethereal top note reminiscent of tarmac roads on the midsummer horizon. Mild spices such as cloves, black pepper and dried cherries are a recurring theme, like the title melody of a monumental soundtrack. Mercilessly dry on the palate with a beguiling extract sweetness. Grown on vines over 80 years old, the fruit and spice notes on the nose are accurately reflected on the palate and are encased in ripe, tightly woven tannins like Kevlar. Complex and multi-layered, it flows over the palate with a silky feel, almost floating, and its fruity, ethereal finish is almost weightless with an extra-long finish. Large glasses and time are the weapons of choice." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"The 2019 Barbaresco Pajè is a step up from the first Barbarescos in this range. Its depth is apparent even from the color. Deeply pitched spice notes meld into a core of dark-toned fruit. Leather, incense, licorice and scorched earth follow, adding layers of dimension. This fabulous edition of the Pajè is notable for its textural resonance and overall presence." Vinous