cult wines

Villa dei Misteri - a wine with historical roots and forward-looking flavours: this Pompeiano Rosso is vinified from the limited Piedirosso grapes that now grow in the ruins of the Pompeii archaeological site. Generous, bright and fruity aromas of raspberries, spices and a hint of pepper. Concentrated and persistent flavour with fine tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is our flagship wine, a Barolo recognised the world over, which we have always nourished and cared for with greatest respect. Nothing will change. This is why I will dedicate this special wine to my grandchildren Alessia and Stefano. From now on, it will carry their names." Luciano Sandrone on his intention to rename his world-famous Barolo Cannubi Boschis "Aleste" with the 2013 vintage. This Barolo is a masterpiece from Luciano Sandrone in every respect. Not only a historic product but also the only cru of the house from the renowned Cannubi area in Barolo. Rich ruby colour, balsamic bouquet, ripe and sweet. Great suppleness on the palate, lots of fruit, dense tannins, very persistent final with Burgundian elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant ruby colour with a fine garnet shimmer. Opens with notes of plums, rose petals and pickled peach. Polished on the palate, shows layers of tannin, juicy strawberry fruit, flows calmly, very elegant and long." Falstaff

"This wine captivates with aromas of oil-infused rose petals and Maresca cherries overlaid with notes of incense that rise from the glass. The palate is intense, dark and rich, offering a mouth-filling experience of dark plums and an abundance of mixed sweet spices accompanied by dried bay leaves and black tea. The wine finishes with elegant tannins and a powerful acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"This red wine shows broad flavours of cherry, plum, tar, eucalyptus and sweet spices, with an accent of liquorice. It walks a fine line between power and elegance, with a well-integrated structure, refined tannins and a racy, resonant finish." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Aleste 2020 is a noble, elegant wine that is easy to drink right from the start. Black cherry, plum, mocha, liquorice and dark spices resonate beautifully. Soft and juicy, with silky tannins, the 2020 Aleste is an absolute charmer." Vinous

"The 2020 Barolo Aleste is multi-layered with sweet earth and drunken cherry. It shows seamless integration and a crescendo of intensity that starts with ripe fruit and moves into oak elements, liquorice, spice and balanced acidity. This wine has a beautiful mouthfeel, with length and complexity. The Aleste is made from the fruit of Cannubi Boschis in the commune of Barolo. This is the full programme." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of cherries and hibiscus with hints of tar and dried flowers such as roses. Full-bodied and complex, with lots of juicy and rich fruit that shows the warmth of the vintage but is framed by creamy and chewy tannins that give it shape and intensity. A very serious and structured 2020." James Suckling

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The name Tre Terre refers to the origin of the grapes for the Quintarelli family's new masterpiece: they come from the municipalities of Negrar, Marano and Sant'Ambrogio. Its style, with its more pronounced tannins, spiciness and tangy acidity, differs greatly from the winery's classic Amarone range. Red cherries and herbs come to the fore, and overall it has an astonishing minerality and objectivity for Amarone, which makes it more recognisable as an aristocratic Barolo than a more powerful Amarone. Very idiosyncratic in its interpretation, but with its rough edges as always in a class of its own! SUPERIORE.DE

"You said Quintarelli and you said Valpolicella, an Amarone with four quarters of nobility that has traced the history of the type from the vineyard of the same name. Nose of cherries in alcohol, notes of liquorice and mint. Spicy-salty tannins on the palate, very persistent." Luca Gardini

The high density of the vines, planted in a south-facing amphitheatre, ensured perfect ripening in 2021. Costa Russi is full-bodied and fleshy and has a deep red colour. Beautiful scents of peony and lilies, followed by exquisite blackberry fruit combined with raspberry coulis and a hint of pepper. The fruit is slightly darker than the other Barbaresco wines from Gaja with a hint of spice and pungency. Excellent expression, vibrancy, freshness and charm. The tannins are deceptively soft and generous, this wine is wonderful now but will be even better in a decade. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, powerful ruby garnet colour. Very precise and clear nose of ripe dark wild raspberries, juicy, fresh plums, some black truffles. Radiant on the palate, shows lots of compact red fruit, then opens up with pithy tannins in many layers, savoury final." Falstaff

"Expressive and elegant, this red wine displays aromas and flavours of cherries, strawberries, roses and minerals. At this youthful stage, it is skilfully balanced, with refined tannins and lively acidity that lingers with a complex blend of fruit and mineral elements and a hint of eucalyptus." Wine Spectator

"This wine is very aromatic, with nutmeg, white pepper, matchsticks, flint, blackberries, brambles and iodine. Medium-bodied with supple and elastic tannins that give it shape and race. Spicy on the finish. Shows excellent potential. Give this wine three to four years to open up." James Suckling

Cepparello is one of the great varietal Sangiovese classics from central Tuscany. Brilliant ruby red colour. Clean, flawless aroma of red fruits, enlivened by fine pepper accents and delicate mineral nuances. Elegance radiates from the relaxed, enveloping flavour, which delivers a perfectly measured acidity framework to a well-integrated tannin to finish long and full of finesse. SUPERIORE.DE

"Starts with a lot of esprit on warm-scented berry and flower flavours; complex attack, the acidity and the fine-grained tannins in perfect balance, salty-mineral nuances, the final opulent and yet full of elegance. Should be left for a few more years." Vinum

"Sparkling ruby colour of medium density. Finely characterised nose, with notes of raspberry and dark cherries, plus some eucalyptus. Juicy from the beginning to the end, shows plump cherry fruit, some blackberry, present tannin in many fine layers, pomegranate on the final." Falstaff

"Despite its medium-weight structure, the Cepparello 2021 is a restrained, tight-knit wine. Today, the 2021 still seems quite nervous and lean, even for a young Cepparello. It will be interesting to see how it develops with a little more time in the bottle. I really like the energy of this wine." Vinous

"Plum, cherry and pomegranate fruit are framed by toasted oak and mineral flavours in this lively and juicy red wine that offers plenty of energy, with elements of tar and oak on the lingering finish. It shows good balance, with the dense tannins leaving room for the fruit at the end. Needs time." Wine Spectator

"The Isole e Olena 2021 Cepparello, one of Tuscany's flagship wines, immediately offers ripe fruit flavours that are firm, even crisp, which bodes well for the future development of this classic vintage. The wine is packed with tart fruit flavours, followed by balanced acidity. Compared to previous vintages, which are more extracted and dense, this vintage is delightfully bright and transparent. I appreciate the age-worthy path Cepparello is taking." Wine Advocate

"In this vintage, the Cepparello shows very restrained notes of red cherries, dried violets and plenty of stony minerality. There is a fleshy and spicy character in the depths. Overall very precise and integrated. The palate is dominated by velvety tannins that have a chalky, even dusty texture, with a full body, amazing concentration and very refreshing acidity. The finish is bright and focused on cherry stones. A good wine for longer ageing. Possibly one of the best Cepparello ever." James Suckling

Deep, rich ruby red colour. Intoxicating nose with clearly perceptible herbal spice, wonderfully layered with hints of mint and young leather. Lively, vibrant dark red cherry flavours paired with fine, original grape sweetness on the palate, always with a precision and structure that is rarely found in a glass. Its purity, vibrancy and deeply impressive personality are revealed with every sip. Rarely has a Sangiovese made us so devout. It has everything that makes a perfect wine! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Sangiovese stuns the senses with an exotic bouquet that keeps the glass in constant motion as sandalwood and crushed stones complicate rhubarb and violet blossom flavours, all engulfing a core of brilliant strawberry fruit. The wine is racy and supple, with a silky yet vibrant texture and vibrant acidity that emphasises the ripe wild berry fruit. The 2018 finishes with dramatic length and is full of energy. An orange glow balances the angular tannins, and purple flowers fade slowly over a lingering note of red candy. I've never experienced such a racy rendition of Soldera, and yet this wine is full of character and expertly balanced. Don't miss it." Vinous

"Soldera fans will be very pleased with this latest release, which, despite the uneven growing season (with a wet and cool spring and a hot summer), shows tremendous Sangiovese character and lustre. The legendary Gianfranco Soldera died of a heart attack on the morning of 16 February 2019 while driving along the bucolic, vineyard-lined road near his winery. This means that this is the last vintage to be managed directly by Soldera, a man who was very active in the vineyards and winery until the very end. As a farewell gift, he presents us with a finely nuanced wine with flavours of cassis, wild berries, rosemary, pencil shavings and blood orange. This is a beautiful wine that pays tribute not only to Gianfranco Soldera, but also to his non-interventionist vision of Italian wine that has influenced so many younger winemakers." Wine Advocate

Greppo Riserva from the absolute top year 1997 - newly corked, as Biondi Santi does every 20 years also on behalf of customers - smells of flowers, licorice, red berries and spices. Elegance and perfection at the palate, long, supple, juicy up to the endless final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Optimal vintage, rain in spring, June and July dry and warm, refreshing downpours again and again in August; harvestin early September. Rich, sparkling ruby garnet. Shows nice ripe cherry fruit on the nose, some plum, plus blackberry, the warmth of the vintage is also evident in the riper flavors. Firm and sturdy on the palate, gripping, dense tannin, lots of ripe fruit, surprisingly broad for Biondi Santi." Falstaff

"The celebrated 1997 vintage was, generally speaking, overestimated in Tuscany and most of the wines are today more evolved than expected. It was considered one of the best vintages of the 20th century for two key reasons: it was the warmest harvest of the cool 1990s, and there were some excellent wines from the coolest spots for Sangiovese. Biondi Santi's steep hill of Il Greppo and its BBS11 clone loves warm vintages and certainly they have pushed the reputation of the year. The quality of this Riserva is immediately clear: the outstanding freshness of the attack is still there, and the palate shines for the savoury red berries melded with hints of wild fowl, liquorice stick and Earl grey, increasing its citrus elegance. It displays the perfect balance of structural elements, still tense with velvety tannins. The sweet cherry kernel flavours sit on a broader than usual palate, with not quite firm acidity." Decanter

"A ripe expression, showing broad shoulders, this is still monolithic and dense at 15 years. Cherry, plum and stony aromas and flavors are supported by fresh acidity and dusty tannins. The tight finish contains a mineral element. Opens up with time in the glass, but could use another 5 to 10 years of aging." Wine Spectator

"The Biondi-Santi 1997 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva was never previously reviewed; therefore, I am very excited to add an official record of this stunning wine to our database. This vintage delivers structure and age-worthy intensity that should carry it forward successfully for more years ahead. However, if you decide to pop the cork now, rest assured that this excellent Brunello has now entered its prime drinking window. The bouquet is polished and fine, with wild fruit aromas that segue to balsam herb and licorice. The finish is long and extremely polished. This is a real beauty." Wine Advocate

Of all his wines, the flagship Tenuta di Trinoro offers the deepest insight into Andrea Franchetti's viticulture. Andrea changes the proprietary blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot from limestone and clay soils every year depending on the quality and quantity of the harvest. The grapes are always the best of the vintage. Franchetti's own style is recognisable in each of his wines and with each vintage. The 2020 vintage was the first to be given an additional year of bottle ageing before being released for sale.

This dark, full and concentrated red wine already shows a good deal of its potential on the nose and the ripe, fruit-driven appeal that has characterised it for years and helped it achieve world fame. On the palate, the flavours range from deep, dark fruit to spices, mahogany and grilled herbs. The texture is tapered, well-proportioned and ethereal. The fruity verve and the opulent concert of flavours are guided by highly elegant tannins into an almost endless finish. Monumental, but not a monster. Powerful, but not a muscleman - everything is in the right place here. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Tenuta di Trinoro 2020 is sensual and racy, but also not as opulent as it could be. That's not necessarily a bad thing. Sweet floral, spicy and savoury top notes meld with a core of dark fruit. Overall, the 2020 comes across as a smaller, slightly leaner Tenuta that will probably drink well early on as the flavours are still developing. Pretty floral and spicy notes lift the finish nicely. This is a classy Tenuta." Vinous

"Balsamic, ripe and fresh, with a beautiful abundance of black berries and black cherries, with notes of cream, cocoa, wood, spices and cola. It is very structured and already complex, showing a slightly fresher character than the 2019, with a delicious juiciness on the mid-palate and crisp acidity. It has the potential to become a great Trinoro in the future." Decanter

"On the nose, rich, sweet aromas of cherries and figs draw balance from sharper undertones of graphite, fennel, orange peel and clove. A smear of marmalade across the palate underscores the fruitiness, which stays bright and juicy through the finish, but a dark chocolate undertone provides gravitas." Wine Enthusiast

"So fragrant of violets and lavender with some blackcurrant. Medium to full-bodied with lustre and finesse. Racy and fine. Finesse with verve. Very elegant and straightforward with a racy texture. Very long and slightly angular." James Suckling

"The initial shyness develops into youthful bravado after a little aeration; the nose is dominated by Cabernet Franc with its berry and plum aromas, undergrowth, notes of fresh flowers and spices; then the attack is powerful, the tannins are extremely velvety and fine-grained, the finish is long and full of elegance despite all the power. Needs to mature." Vinum

"The 2020 vintage is certainly more open, but offers a very special view of Cabernet Franc in particular. The lush softness of the black cherry of the Merlot is magically combined with the dark intensity and tannic power of the Cabernet Franc. The ripeness of the fruit is impeccable, there are neither green tones nor overripe nuances. Everything is balanced." Wine Advocate

"Dark ruby red with violet. Initially fine stony notes on the nose, precious wood, incense, then dark berry fruit, cassis, fine mint on the finish. Densely woven on the palate, creamy, oily, with notes of ripe raspberries, comes in many layers, savoury, great juiciness, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"One of the mythological products of national viticulture, a Bordeaux with a predominance of Cabernet Franc, then Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and a small percentage of Petit Verdot. Redcurrant on the nose, a hint of laurel and liquorice powder, salty and acidic tannins, incredible persistence." Luca Gardini

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"The aromas of licorice, minerals, light tar and dark berries such as raspberry are so attractive. It’s medium-bodied with a tight and integrated palate of fine tannins that are seamless and unseen. It’s long and lively. It needs two to four years to open up. Try after 2027." James Suckling

The grapes for the deep Le Vigne come from Baudana in Serralunga d'Alba (for power), Villero in Castiglione Falletto (for precision), Vignane in Barolo (for purity of aromas) and Merli in Novello (for richness of fruit). It opens wide with aromas of fresh red fruits and a delicate spicy note. Very intense on the palate, remarkably elegant, fine-grained tannins, exceedingly clear, structured and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Still a bit closed, but with a distinct mineral, spicy undertone and just a hint of oak. Very youthful fruit driven by plenty of lively acidity and lots of enveloping tannins, but the balance is perfectly struck." Jancis Robinson

"This is a densely built red wine with aromas and flavours of flowers, cherries, iron, earth and scrub. It is powerful, with the austerity characteristic of the vintage and a strong grip on the finish. The tannins give it a compact feel on the finish, but it lingers with a core of pure fruit." Wine Spectator

"This wine begins shy but turns it out quickly with aromas of warmed cherries, fresh wildflowers, anise, clove and black tea. The balanced palate reveals a core of fruit with savory and earthy elements in support, all resting on a foundation of polished tannins and vibrant acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"Very aromatic with hibiscus, crab apple, orange blossom and ripe strawberries on the nose. Full-bodied, very layered and powerful, yet it remains very finely structured with an intense finish. A little more structured than before." James Suckling

"The 2019 Barolo Le Vigne is a pure and total seduction. Cherry, sweet pipe tobacco, mint, cedar, dried herbs and orange peel grace a Le Vigne built on a medium-bodied structure and energy. A sense of youthful classicism and austerity that is so beguiling. harvestshould be patient, though. The 2019 won't be ready to drink anytime soon, but it has enough fruit to make me think it will be great with time." Vinous

"The 2019 Barolo Le Vigne is a historic blend of fruit from Baudana in Serralunga d'Alba, Villero in Castiglione Falletto, Vignane in Barolo and Merli in Novello. The backbone of this wine is Baudana, and Merli gives it freshness. The wine still needs some time in the bottle, but already it shows generosity and boldness with dark fruits, spices and crushed minerals." Wine Advocate

"An impeccable Barolo that takes up the custom of blending from different areas: Serralunga d'Alba, Castiglione Falletto, Barolo and Novello vineyards, raspberry on the nose, hints of chinotto and eucalyptus, liquorice root on the finish. In the mouth density and tension, salty-spicy tannins, balsamic finish." Luca Gardini

"Bright, noble ruby red with a discreetly lightening rim. In the nose initially noble earthy notes of truffle, then candied cherry, a hint of sealing wax, anchovies, rosemary, reverberating on graphite. On the palate with compact tannin, very punchy, comes along in many layers, endlessly long, salty and juicy." Falstaff

The single-varietal Duemani is for us one of the best representatives of the West Tuscan coastal region. The bouquet of exceptional clarity of dark plum, coffee and wild roses. Rich and with perfectly integrated wood notes on the palate, its structure and elegance are particularly fascinating. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby-violet. Very intense and clear nose, full of ripe wild raspberries, blackberries, in the background some pickled beetroot, discreet earthy notes, also tobacco. Very juicy on the palate, ripe berry fruit, opens with fine-meshed tannin, great drinking flow, tobacco on the final." Falstaff

"The 2018 Duemani, 100% Cabernet Franc, is polished, classy and sensual. It is one of the most polished wines I have ever tasted here. Fine tannins frame a core of red fruit, rose petal, lavender, spice and blood orange. The 2018 is perhaps not as varietally expressive as in some editions, but it more than makes up for that with its grace. There is a feeling of youthful austerity that emerges with time in the glass." Vinous

"An organic and biodynamic wine, the 2018 Cabernet Franc Duemani presents a thick and nearly impenetrable wall of dark fruit, pressed blackberry, spice, smoky tar and tobacco. This wine shows impeccable aromatic integration with the high notes and the baritone notes delivered in beautiful synchronization. This wine outpaced my initial expectations following my first tasting of this vintage from barrel. The tannins are integrated and there is a sweet, fruity note on the full-bodied close." Wine Advocate

"This has an aromatic array of ripe red and black cherries, blackcurrants, blueberries, cloves, cedar, fresh herbs and licorice. It’s full-bodied, incredibly smooth and polished with layers of ripe fruit and chocolate, yet with lifting freshness. Fine, silky tannins and a long finish. Lingering chocolate and spices. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification." James Suckling

Suisassi is rich and expressive. The bouquet convinces with aromas of sage, rosemary, wild flowers, liquorice, violets and plums. The palate is very full and round with memories of berries, chocolate and nuts. Elegant and intellectual. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, dark ruby-violet. Very expressive and appealing nose, full of ripe blueberries and blackberries, ripe plums, very clear fruit, also rich spice in the background. Juicy and rich on the palate, shows lots of incisive berry fruit, grippy, tightly meshed tannin, very long finish." Falstaff

"One of the icons of the Tuscan coast, this wine is a pioneer in organic and biodynamic farming, especially in this neck of the woods. The Duemani 2018 Syrah Suisassi is beautifully generous and full-bodied. The wine delivers uninterrupted waves of black and purple fruit, all followed up by spice, baker's chocolate and softly cured tobacco. As is the case with Luca D'Attoma's Cabernet Franc Duemani that I also tasted as an unfinished wine, I am pleased to say that these final results more than delivered on my expectations. This is mostly thanks to the wine's balance and power." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Suisassi (Syrah) is another exceptional wine in this range. Dark and racy, the 2018 offers up copious blue/blackish fruit, lavender, menthol and chocolate. There's real depth and density here, but not the heaviness of the past. Once again, Luca D'Attoma and Elena Celli crafted a unique and totally distinctive wine. Superb." Vinous

"Ripe black cherries, wild blackberries, blackcurrants, nutmeg, licorice, mahogany, musk and some dried thyme on the nose. It’s full-bodied and polished with intense blue and black-fruit flavors, wonderfully balanced with wood, spice and smoky notes. Velvety, integrated tannins. Such focus and precision. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Already stunning and hard to resist now, but better in a couple of years." James Suckling

This coveted Riserva is only vinified in top vintages and comes from the highest vineyards of the winery. On the nose, the essence of dark cherries, blackberries, flowers, violets, liquorice and spices, which are then carried away on the palate by firm, structured tannins. The Brunello Riserva 2016 impresses with its remarkable fruit and a big, explosive finish. It presents itself fresh and surprisingly lively, yet very focused and balanced. A great wine that is already a real joy to drink. SUPERIORE.DE

"Andrea Cortonesi crafts distinctly umami Brunello from various parcels at diverse altitudes and exposures in the warm reaches of Castelnuovo dell’Abate. After trying the sensuous 2015 Riserva at the estate in September 2021, I was excited to taste the 2016 release. It too is voluptuously shaped yet shored up by sturdy, muscular tannins. Pronounced clove and nutmeg meet prune, dried raspberry and tar. And there is a saline beef broth undertow. While it offers plenty to unpack over the years, I actually prefer to drink Uccelliera’s wines when they are still full of vim and vigour." Decanter

"This is really polished and refined, yet remains polished and beautiful, with cherries and berries, as well as light hazelnut and walnut undertones. Compact and silky. Drink after 2024, but already so attractive." James Suckling

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a terrific wine: bold, well-defined, powerful and balanced. There are many good things to relate, but the high alcohol content (measured at 15.5%) is the only distraction. This is a trend in the Riserva category in the 2016 vintage. The bouquet shows black cherry, cassis, earth, leather and dried roses. The palate offers soft fruit flavors supported by firm oak tannins." Wine Advocate

"Rich and deeply alluring, the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva wafts up to display crushed ashen stone mixed with hints of ginger, dusty florals and black cherry preserves. This is velvety-smooth and pliant in feel, lifted by cooling herbal and mineral tones, as an opulent wave of ripe red and black fruits washes across the palate, leaving a staining of minerals and spice in its wake. It’s long and structured, in need of further time to come fully into focus, yet somehow the 2016 Riserva remains completely fresh, tapering off to inner earth tones and hints of blueberry. Time will reveal further depths. This is an utterly classic Uccelliera Brunello in the making." Vinous

"Offers forthcoming aromas and flavors of blackberry, black currant, licorice, tobacco and vanilla backed by vivid acidity and dusty tannins, with a long, saline finish. Showing enough fruit and structure to absorb the oakiness over time, this is balanced overall and poised for a promising future." Wine Spectator

Rare, exceptional Merlot from the west of Tuscany: deep ruby red with violet reflections. The bouquet is multi-layered with hints of wild berries and blackberries, ripe cherries, but also liquorice and tobacco notes. Very structured and lively on the palate. The silky tannins emphasise the delicate minerality right through to the almost endless finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Fine black cherry on the nose, with fine yeasty tones, black bread, blackcurrants, precious wood, cold smoke. Great texture on the palate, full on the tongue, with spicy fruit and rich tannins, fiery, with some wood overhang, still very young, needs patience." Falstaff

"Exuding black currant, blackberry, plum and iron flavors, this sleek version is also powerful, with beefy tannins, yet it's the vivid acidity that drives the long, toasty oak–infused aftertaste in the end." Wine Spectator

"The Tua Rita 2021 Redigaffi is a wine with dense character and dark extraction. This 100% Merlot offers tension and extreme balance with very generous flavours of dark cherries, plums, dried blackberries, spices and tobacco. Its texture is spectacularly soft and velvety, its body is full-bodied. Redigaffi is often monolithic and monotonous when young, and it needs more time in the bottle to develop." Wine Advocate

"Wow. The flavours are really something else with red fruits, black olives, spices like cardamom and nutmeg and hints of tar and meat. It's full-bodied yet controlled and focused with fine, subtle tannins that roll across the palate and create beautiful movement. Powerful yet silky and endless. A great young Merlot and one of the best for a few years." James Suckling

Rare, exceptional Merlot from the west of Tuscany: deep ruby red with violet reflections. The bouquet is multi-layered with hints of wild berries and blackberries, ripe cherries, but also liquorice and tobacco notes. Very structured and lively on the palate. The silky tannins emphasise the delicate minerality right through to the almost endless finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Inviting, sparkling ruby-purple colour. Rich, appealing nose, rich in blueberries and blackberries, cassis, some dark bread crust, oregano behind it. Full-bodied and compact at the attack and on the palate, rich blueberry and blackberry flavours, grippy, hearty tannins, young but very well integrated, spans a wide range." Falstaff

"Aromas of crushed fruit and white pepper with dried lavender and hints of violets and sage flowers. Stony undertones, too. Medium- to full-bodied, tight and focused, with reserve and beauty. And then it grows on the palate with polished and focused tannins that take it to another level. Exudes freshness and length, despite the hot growing season. A sophisticated red and with a long future ahead." James Suckling

Roagna's Barbaresco Pajè Vecchie Viti opens with a bright garnet-red colour and a deep, shiny glow. The fruit of old vines manages to reach the impossible point between power and elegance. The wine shows a delicate and bright bouquet, but also a compact fruit and a long finish. You can feel this extra fullness on the finish. The production is around 2,500 bottles. SUPERIORE.DE

"Transparent ruby red colour. Vines over 80 years old provide the material for this exceptional Barbaresco with a cathedral-like appearance on the nose: the ethereal-balsamic superstructure with notes of sandalwood and incense, juniper and rosemary is complemented by fruity litanies of cherries, raspberry jam and blood oranges and adorned with floral overtones of violets, mallow and hollyhocks along with a pinch of white pepper. On the palate, the wine is precisely pared, elegantly understated and charming. The fine, long, taut acidity gives it an aristocratic polish, while the ripe, tightly woven tannins envelop it in the finest thread. Delicate and transparent, the delicate fruit illuminates the entire palate.

Conversations fall silent, glasses clink, laughter. His approachable manner seems jovial, yet he is demanding and emphatic with an epochal echo. Everyone gladly obeys." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"Sparkling, brightening ruby-garnet colour. Wonderful nose with rich notes of wild raspberry, plum and rose petals, plus some beeswax. Lots of substantial tannin on the palate, opens up in many layers, spans a wide arc, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"The Barbaresco Pajè Vecchie Viti 2018 is characterised by a striking inner sweetness. The Vecchie Viti is powerful and deep, but not in an obvious way. It has more inner sweetness and also more structure than the pure Pajè, but also less obvious depth, as strange as that may sound. Above all, I admire its freshness. It will be interesting to see how it develops in the bottle." Vinous

"This pure red wine shows flavours of cherry, raspberry, rose and liquorice, underlined by mineral and tobacco elements. Taut and straightforward, with the essence of fruit, floral and mineral notes, it shows great harmony and length in an elegant frame." Wine Spectator

Barolo Riserva Ravera Vigna Elena is a wonderful wine from Elvio Cogno and, not surprisingly, as is so often the case, the best from the collection of the family business from Novello. It is aged in large Slavonian oak barrels and only produced in selected vintages. It exudes delicate truffle notes and aromas of wild berries with a hint of exotic spice. The wine is soft, lush and well-structured, making your mouth water. This Barolo shows the power and inner structure of the Ravera Cru and should age beautifully over the next two decades. SUPERIORE.DE

"Comes from a one-hectare vineyard planted with a special Nebbiolo clone: fresh berry notes in combination with orange zest and balsamic spice flavours; precise evolution, carried by polished tannins and a crisp acidity, berry, invigorating, long and full of finesse." Vinum

"Sparkling ruby colour with a pronounced garnet rim. Fine, inviting nose, opens with notes of blood orange, plus fresh plum, some leather in the background. Lots of juicy, present fruit on the palate, clear flavours of fresh raspberries, pithy, dense tannins, built up in many layers, rich and full-bodied on the final, salty." Falstaff

"Pale ruby red colour. Lots of minerals on the nose and only slowly raspberry fruit and iodine notes. A slow-burning wine. Great freshness, length and juiciness. Multi-layered, with lots of tannins on the finish. You can approach it now, because it's hard to resist." Jancis Robinson

"The Barolo Riserva Ravera Vigna Elena 2018 is an airy, ethereal wine. Dried cherry, tobacco, incense, dried flowers, spices and leather are the first to open up, supported by Ravera acidity and tannin." Vinous

"This elegant, expressive, straightforward and powerful red wine shows flavours of strawberries, cherries, rose hips, eucalyptus, juniper, iron and salt. Supple and nimble, with a line of resonant tannins on the finish." Wine Spectator

"This is an elegant, flavoursome and refined Barolo. Medium-bodied, with notes of sour cherries, orange peel, mahogany and balsamic notes framed by silky tannins. Transparent character. Already delicious now, but even better from 2026." James Suckling

Three years after the Annata, Romano and his sons launch a small edition of the same vintage in a magnum bottle. Brilliant dark ruby. Fresh, silky, elegant - and majestic. Blackberry jam, violets, bittersweet chocolate, plus crushed rock and minerality. An opulent wine with fabulously polished tannins and considerable ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Impenetrable ruby with a tendency towards black, violet rim. In the nose of graphite, incense, only slightly of blackberries and cassis, seems a bit closed. On the palate incredibly dense, concentrated, multi-layered, at the same time gripping and taut, enormously fine-meshed tannin, has a lot of dark berry fruit, reverberates for a very long time, finishes powerful and imposing." Falstaff

"A velvety, full-bodied version, loaded with blackberry coulis, baked black cherry and tar-tinged smoke flavors that ripple across the palate. Offers lovely accents of dried mint, tobacco, iron and anise that echo on the firm finish. A powerhouse, with plenty in reserve." Wine Spectator

"It's not showy on the nose but is super-attractive, and it just grows more so the more time you spend with it. On the palate it's rich, deep, magnificently tannic and long - an absolutely unbridled Amarone, yet at the same time of extraordinary resonance, authority and subtlety. An Amarone masterclass!" Decanter

"The 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta is a beautifully complete wine, even at this young stage in its life. You feel the youth of the wine in the tightness of the tannins and in the finely knit texture of its concentrated flavor profile. The big surprise is the wine's fresh acidity that has been carefully safeguarded despite the heat of the vintage and the drying process so deftly executed at this landmark estate. The wine shows no sign of oxidation or evolution, not yet. There is intricate fruit layering with cherry, blackberry, spice and mesquite delivered with such precision, that level of detail defies the very bold and opulent essence of the wine. It has only just started its evolutionary journey." Wine Advocate

"There is a massive amount of pleasure to be found in the 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta. It blends elegance with power while contrasting rich dark fruits against sweet herbal tones and spices to create a seductive expression from start to finish. Cherry and plum sauce, lavender, mint and sage can all be found upon first pour, yet it’s the developing notes of rum cake, mocha and licorice that complete the picture perfectly. This is velvety and pliant in texture yet not weighty, all balanced by juicy acids, tart fruits and just a hint of grippy tannins. Dark chocolate mixed with salty minerals under an air of sweet violet florals resonates throughout the finale. All of that said, the endnote here is remarkably fresh, as the 2012 never becomes tiring. This is firing on all cylinders yet with medium-term cellaring potential - but good luck keeping your hands off of it today." Vinous

"A decadent nose of treacle tart, chocolate, tar, tons of black fruit such as blackberries and mulberries and even ash and licorice. A dense, layered mouthfeel makes for a full-bodied palate that's explosive yet somehow so refined and pretty all at the same time. The finish goes on and on." James Suckling

A masterpiece of depth, tradition and elegance! This Amarone matures for around six years in the barrel before it sees the light of day in the bottle. The archetype of the Venetian royal wine presents itself as multi-layered and dense and of a masterly complexity. On the nose, dried fruit, dates, nuts, earthy notes and the fine flavours of dried sultanas. On the palate, this infinite depth is paired with an elegance and finesse that only the Quintarelli family can master. A red wine from a better world, where you want to linger longer! SUPERIORE.DE

"Complex aromas of cigar box, incense, black cherry fruit and bay leaves with balsamic notes. The palate is creamy, off-dry and velvety, with a full body and long, refreshing acidity. There is a lot of sucrosity and spices. A generous wine with a lush, well-balanced palate." James Suckling

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2017 is an absolute seductress and a dark beauty. It opens with a dusty bouquet of dried flowers and masses of cherry sauce, underscored by spiced oranges and hints of violet pastille. The palate is a model of purity, with crisp wild berries enlivened by tantalising acidity and a hint of dark chocolate. Crisp mineral notes emerge towards the finish. The 2017 lingers for an incredibly long time and remains completely fresh. The grippy tannins remain, while notes of dried blueberries and lavender linger throughout. The Quintarelli estate has worked hard to perfect a style that combines the magic of older vintages with a new level of freshness, and the 2017 is a big step in the right direction. Bravo." Vinous

Monteverro - a classic French blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot - is a great cru from the Maremma and brims with opulence and diversity. Rich, dark ruby with a black core. Incredibly rich in aromas of dark fruits, chocolate and spices, soft, full body, polished tannins. It is impossible to exaggerate the joy of the magnificence of this wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"This vintage of Monteverro's premium red wine (made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot) has light green aromas reminiscent of blackberries, grilled herbs and potting soil. It was an uneven growing season with a cool and wet spring followed by a hot summer." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Monteverro is classy, elegant and polished. Lifted aromatics and silky tannins frame this decidedly understated Maremma red. Crushed flowers, spice, menthol, licorice, lavender and dried herbs are all finely laced together. This is such an engaging wine." Vinous

"Sparkling, powerful ruby violet. Compact nose with notes of juicy, dark blackberries, black cherries and currants, fine spice in the background. Full-bodied and gripping on the palate, shows firm, grippy tannins, builds up well, firm pressure on the final and tobacco in the aftertaste." Falstaff

"Blackcurrant and black liquorice with dried flowers and sandalwood. Full-bodied, really racy and powerful with great tannins. Flavourful and very long. Needs time to develop. Give it time until 2024 and beyond." James Suckling

Vinified only in the best vintages and in small batches, Brunello di Montalcino PS Riserva comes from vines planted in the 1970s in Pelagrilli, one of the districts on the north side of Montalcino. The 2016 is deep yet translucent and offers wonderful intensity. The bouquet is fluid and graceful with a very precise and concentrated presentation. Dark cherry, plum, rose petal, spice, liquorice and new French oak are just some of the characteristics that excite us. The finish is silky and very long. Attractive tones of spicy smoked meat appear at the very end. A full and very focused Sangiovese from the top year 2016. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby garnet. Very clear and precise nose, shows beautiful matured fruit notes, plays between nuances of raspberry, cherry and strawberry, underpinned by spicy components. Shows compact and polished on the palate, lots of fine-meshed tannin in many layers, fine fruit, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red. Deep, sweet cherry aroma with more than a hint of cardamom. Lots of maraschino cherry on the palate with supple acidity building to a very long, aromatic final with a perfect dose of chewy tannins. A baroque, dramatic wine." Jancis Robinson

"Broad, stimulating flavours of blackcurrants and blackberries, with elements of iron, tobacco and toasted spices. Accents of wild herbs add detail, while dense tannins flex their muscles on the long finish. Lively and concentrated, with energy and potential." Wine Spectator

"It's hard to tear yourself away from the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva PS, as a stunning blend of cool mint and menthol gives way to cloves, cedar chips, dried cherries and underbrush. This dark beauty impresses with a texture like crushed velvet, weighty and fleshy yet refined. Sour berries combine with hints of blood orange and inner herbal notes to create an interplay of salty and sweet tension. It's not the concentration or heady aromas or flavours that impress here, but the wonderful balance they all create. The 2016 Riserva PS finishes incredibly long, unexpectedly fresh, with fine-grained tannins and notes of liquorice and blackcurrant." Vinous

"From a small, precious cru of 1.5 ha in the Pellagrilli area, aged for 24 months in barrique, then in bottle, a wine of lush concentration. Red currant jam, with notes of lemon thyme and even sweet spices like cinnamon. The mouthfeel is dense and crisp, with saline tannins and a fruity, balsamic return on the finish." Luca Gardini

"This is a wine of impressive size and depth. The Siro Pacenti 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva PS is modern, bold, powerful and built like a brick wall. It offers plenty of concentration and richness of texture, but it also boasts a fairly dark ruby colour that is beautiful in the glass. It is a healthy, vibrant wine with plenty of aromatic character. The tannins are fruity and oaky (both of which ensure that the wine can age for a long time in the cellar), and it sits firmly on the palate, giving it creaminess and structure. Give it plenty of time to develop. With time (I tasted the bottle again 24 and 48 hours after opening), it reveals delicate nuances of mountain herbs, mint and violets. There are only 650 bottles of this vintage and some larger formats." Wine Advocate

"Enchanting nuances of blue fruits, raspberries and black cherries with flowers such as rosemary flowers and violets. Full-bodied with a dense and intense palate of ripe tannins that are fine and polished. So persistent and beautiful with focus and brightness. Lasts for minutes after. Try it after 2024." James Suckling

Barbaresco Sorì Tildìn is a fabulous, incredibly complete wine that rises from the glass with an explosive structure and vertical lift. The tannins are very present, but also beautifully matched by the aromatic intensity and overall drive of the wine. Dark, macerated cherry, spice, leather, liquorice, plum and mocha add darker nuances. All elements are impeccably balanced. It is quite simply a majestic wine of true greatness and absolute class, but it is not obvious. The true essence of Nebbiolo! SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, bright ruby-garnet colour. Very clear and memorable nose with notes of fresh cherry, crisp raspberry, blood orange and pomegranate. Fills the palate full, compact and very present, well-developed fruit, opens up with present, pithy tannins in many layers, has plenty of bite at the back, made for a long life!" Falstaff

"Rich and almost creamy in texture, this detailed red evokes aromas and flavours of cherries, strawberries, roses, iron, tobacco and sweet spices. Well defined by lively acidity, with dense tannins to support it, it is balanced and harmonious, but should benefit from two to three years of ageing. It shows great finesse and length." Wine Spectator

"Subtle and complex flavours of blackberries, pine needles, bark, light spices and violets. It is really perfumed and attractive. Full-bodied and chewy, but the tannins are very, very fine. It lingers for minutes. This is a brooding, muscular wine, but it's very refined. A wine for the cellar." James Suckling