Decanter

Inama's Garganega flagship is named after the wide terraces with rows of old Garganega vines trained in beads on Monte Foscarino. In 2019, thanks to the optimal orientation and careful cultivation, a selection of the best grapes was reserved for I Palchi, which will now only be released on the market in the best years in very limited quantities. It is the archetype of a Soave Classico from volcanic soils and a more than successful, independent interpretation of the Garganega grape.

Deep, rich straw yellow colour. Delicate, highly elegant nose of white flowers, stone fruit and meadow herbs, rounded off with a lovely spiciness and a hint of flint. Full-bodied on the palate, with a firm creaminess, dense, ripe fruit and complex, mineral components. A dream in velvet and silk, carried by a well-proportioned acidity and with an impressive final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, radiant straw yellow with elegant green reflections. Appealing nose of ripe lemon, cold smoke, exotic undertones, candied pineapple, sugared coconut, cold herbal tea on the final. Very nice melting on the palate, with a racy-salty undertone, polished, with beautiful play, mouth-watering in the final and with fine length." Falstaff

"Rich, round and flinty, it's full of exotic and peachy yellow fruits, allied to lovely freshness and poised sapidity. Smoky and spicy hints emerge on the long, slightly woody finish. Class." Decanter

"The Soave Classico Foscarino Grande Cuvée I Palchi 2021 is what they describe as the most representative target for this wine. Made from 100% Garganega, the wine is beautifully structured and fresh, almost crisp and very detailed with peach, honeydew melon, exotic fruits and crushed oyster shells. I Palchi consists of terraced vineyards with 50 to 60 year old vines that are trained using a pergola-rafter system. Garganega is a very vigorous grape variety. The choice of oak wood is carefully considered here." Wine Advocate

"The moment the cork is pulled, you know you're in for a ride. The wine opens with aromas of lemon blossom, lemon peel and lemon curd. You might think that this is all the wine has to offer, but you are quickly led down a different path where flavours of hazelnut, roasted apples, magnolia and the first hint of smoke emerge. As the wine reaches the palate, you are hurled into the vineyard and feel the power of the soil. Flavours of white peach, mixed citrus, wild herbs and honey lead the way to an explosion of minerality that captivates you back into the glass. This is a wine that can hold its own with any other in the world." Wine Enthusiast

"The Soave Classico I Palchi Foscarino Grande Cuvée 2021 has a platinum gold colour and a youthful, intense bouquet that blends raw almonds with stone dust, dusty dried flowers and Asian pear. It seduces with its silky texture and supple personality, washing over the palate with crisp, ripe fruit accompanied by a savoury mix of spicy herbs and minerals. The 2021 tapers dramatically long and fresh, leaving an aftertaste of mint and liquid stone." Vinous

"Wow. This is fantastic with mangoes, lemons, pears and a hint of vanilla. Mineral flavours too. Full-bodied with bright fruit and a lively finish. Lots of minerality. A selection of the best grapes from Inama in the Grand Cru Foscarino. Outstanding." James Suckling

A study commissioned by Francesco Ricasoli has shown that there are 19 different types of soil on Brolio. This made it possible to precisely define the sites that are particularly good for Merlot, from which wines with a unique structure and unmistakable flavour are produced. With the 2018 vintage, Francesco Ricasoli is now presenting the "new" Casalferro, whose grapes come from the three different vineyards Vigna Casalferro, Vigna Pecchierino and Vigna Sodacci. Although the production volume has been drastically reduced, the result is impressive!

A Tuscan Merlot as it is written in the book. On the nose, complex aromas of dark red fruit, delicate cedar wood, leather, very spicy. Initially taut and dense on the palate, it opens up as it progresses and expands with impressive elegance. The interplay between bouquet and complexity on the palate is perfectly balanced and its impressive size is already unmistakable. This Merlot will have a great future. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby red with a garnet-red rim. Fresh sour cherries and plums on the nose, with violets and a touch of coriander in the background. Fruity and juicy on the palate, with well-integrated tannins and a long final." Falstaff

"A rich, dark expression of Merlot, this red walks the fine line between austerity and generosity, with the latter gaining prominence over the course of the fine finish. Dense, with the tight texture working in tandem with black cherry, blackberry, iron and spice flavours." Wine Spectator

"The Barone Ricasoli 2019 Casalferro showcases its potential in a classic vintage. The DNA of the wine, which is made exclusively from Merlot, is characterised by the grape variety, but the terroir also plays a major role in this presentation. You know you're drinking a wine from Tuscany thanks to a delicate bundle of flavours that includes wild cherry, violet fruit, violets and spices. This wine gives an Italian personality to a French grape variety." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Casalferro is magnificent. Ripe dark cherry and plum fruit, liquorice, spice, new leather, menthol and mocha are combined in a generous, lush Merlot that offers much of the vibrancy of a Chianti Classico." Vinous

"Blueberry, plum and red and black berry scents mingle with wildflowers, spices and a hint of roasted coffee beans. Stony and sapid in the mouth, it's all about elegance with beautiful cool blue fruits accompanied by a touch of creaminess on the mid-palate, then a long, super-fresh and poised finish." Decanter

"Super flavours of fresh violets, black olives, crushed raspberries and blackberries. Also a hint of dried flowers. Full-bodied but compact and polished, with superbly crafted tannins that compress the palate and give it a velvety texture. Taut and concentrated. The most precise and refined Casalferro ever. It needs at least three or four years to show what it's made of, but it has great potential. Best from 2026 onwards." James Suckling

"Produced for the first time not only with the best grapes from the vineyard of the same name, but also with contributions from the Pecchierino and Sodacci vineyards, this is a pure Merlot of stature with intense aromas of blueberries, currants and balsamic herbs on the nose. The flavour is elegant and spectacularly clean. Salty and spicy tannins, excellent drinkability." Luca Gardini

This 100% Grillo comes from a vineyard located 490 metres above sea level and surrounded by pine forests, oaks and centuries-old olive trees. The soil of Contrada Santa Margherita consists of sandy calcareous marl of a whitish colour and yellowish-white calcarenite, all marine sediments dating back to the Pleistocene. These soils of the Monti Iblei at the foot of the small municipality of Chiaramonte Gulfi give the wine an impressive complexity and saltiness.

A wild and yet highly seductive bouquet of spiced citrus fruits. Then add some smoke and a hint of undergrowth and you have a great white wine from Etna. Softly textured and thoroughly flavoursome on the palate, with young peach accompanied by lively acidity and a hint of sour lemon. It leaves a hint of minerality, along with notes of ginger and tangerine, while finishing with impressive length and concentration. It's hard to put this glass down. SUPERIORE.DE

"A focused, textured and flavorful white showing notes of baked lemons, white flowers and hints of cedar. It’s medium-bodied with an oily texture. Lovely texture at the center, with succulence in the driven finish." James Suckling

"This 100% Grillo from Contrada Santa Margherita has an intense golden colour and combines Sicilian opulence with the freshness and minerality of a Chablis. Twelve months of ageing in large oak barrels adds a hint of sweet spice to the golden apple, lanolin and acacia honey, while iodine and flint linger in the background. The laser-like acidity is seamlessly interwoven with the viscous mid-palate, creating an unusual combination of textural depth and tension. The finish is long and slightly tactile, with juicy minerals combining with dried fruit and cinnamon." Decanter

Fine traditional brut from the Lunelli family, who work tirelessly on the authenticity of their Trentino sparkling wines. A wide range of aromas and an elegant flavour with a good structure offer first-class enjoyment. SUPERIORE.DE

"A hint of nuttiness that underlines the flavours of preserved lemon and pear. Redcurrant richness, creamy, rich and round, with impressive mousse and tangy red apple bite. The well-formed and well-integrated bubbles give the wine a creamy texture that melds with the richness of the fruit. Sweet spices and nougat cream on the finish. Great stuff." Decanter

"The Brut Trento opens with a blend of dusty dried flowers, cardamom and freshly sliced pears. It fills the palate with a silky pearl of fine bubbles and takes on a savoury to sweet sensation, while tactile mineral tones mingle with ripe fruit trees. It finishes with admirable length and candied citrus fruits that taper off remarkably fresh. I love the balance and complexity of this wine, especially for a non-vintage brut." Vinous

"A refined and expressive aperitif-style sparkling wine. On the palate, it is bright and lively, with a fine, lacy mousse that carries a delicious palette of pineapple, tangerine peel and white cherry fruit, accented by ground ginger, white flowers and fleur de sel." Wine Spectator

"The nose is a tantalizing medley of crisp green apples, zesty lemon, and a hint of toasty brioche. On the palate, a lively chorus of citrus fruits and white peaches harmonizes with a subtle undercurrent of minerality. The bubbles are so fine and persistent, they'll make your taste buds dance with joy. The finish is refreshing and clean, leaving you craving another sip." Wine Enthusiast

In the past, the northern slope of Montalcino was not planted with vines, but was cultivated with cereals, olives and cherries. In this area influenced by the Apennines, the seasons are more pronounced, continental and the north wind significantly lowers the temperature in winter. It is therefore the coldest Brunello region at this time of year, but also the wettest. This northern slope is a gentle hill: a characteristic that is more reminiscent of the Crete Senesi area, right next door, than the two stiffer, steeper and warmer southern slopes of Montalcino.

Due to the climate and the origin of the soil, the grapes in this area of Montalcino are harvested last every year. Vigna del Lago is the vineyard that welcomes all visitors travelling from the north of Montalcino. It takes its name from the lake that surrounds it and which plays a fundamental role in the microclimate of the area; the soil is a constant alternation between clay and strips of very fine Galestro.

Vigna del Lago is a historic cru from the Val di Suga winery, it is an old-school Brunello, from the times before the arrival of barriques and technology. An authentic product that is enjoying increasing demand. Unlike the Poggio al Granchio, which is aged in new Liters French barriques, this wine matures in large 30 and 50-hectolitre Slavonian oak barrels. It is a wine with a low alcohol content, light orange-ruby colour, with very fine and almost imperceptible tannins, with a floral nose of citrus notes, myrtle and fresh cherries. It is a Brunello of great richness and balance and also has a very pleasant lightness, well-contoured acidity and a salty, mineral finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny ruby red colour. Spicy nose of cypress, herbs and red berries, with fine earthy, stony notes. Beautiful juiciness on the palate, clear fruit and tightly woven tannins, cool, with an appealing feel, beautiful salinity on the final." Falstaff

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Lago is dark and brooding, with a delicate blend of ashen stones and grilled herbs that segue into dried black cherries. This wine is silky and enveloping, with fresh acidity and vibrant, ripe wild berry flavours that cascade. Lively acidity keeps the energy high, while the 2019 finishes long and spotty but surprisingly juicy, leaving hints of violet pastille over a bed of fine-grained tannins." Vinous

"A delicate style with aromas and flavours of strawberries, cherries, roses and stony minerals. Subliminally savoury, with light, powdery tannins that cling to the palate on the long, loamy finish." Wine Spectator

"The Vigna del Lago, which surrounds the Val di Suga wine cellar in the north-east of Montalcino, is cooled by northerly winds and bordered by cypress trees. The vines are planted at an altitude of 280 metres on clay soil. This bottling is aged in 40-hectolitre Slavonian oak barrels. The wine is light, dense and still slightly reduced at the moment, opening up with dark cherries and alpine herbs. The fine-boned frame contains cranberries and redcurrants with traces of blood orange and forest roots. Vertical tannins occupy the mid-palate, and the finish is carried by lively, citrusy acidity. This austerity says: wait!" Decanter

"Smells of subtle fruits and flowers with cedar and sandalwood. Medium-bodied with fine tannins and a fresh and fruity finish. All about beautiful, perfectly ripe fruit with an undertone of citrus blossom. Drinkable now, but better in two or three years." James Suckling

"Notes of dogwood on the nose, with a hint of lemon thyme and a touch of gardenia. Spicy on the palate, with balsamic and floral notes." Luca Gardini

Badia a Passignano is always one of the many highlights in the Antinori range and is probably the estate's most refined and elegant Sangiovese. Its character is medium-bodied and supple, but with plenty of fruit intensity, which is typical of the vineyard of the same name. It skilfully strikes a balance between richness and finesse, captivating from the very first sip. Lavender, mint, blue-purple fruit and liquorice are beautifully brought out. It is a very traditional and noble expression of the Tuscan grape that is hard to resist. SUPERIORE.DE

"The classic Gran Selezione of the Antinori family from vineyards around the Abbey of Passignano: Intriguing Sangiovese nose with aromas of red berries and flowers; finesse-rich structure, the tightly woven tannins and acidity in balance, persistent final." Vinum

"Dark, shiny, ruby-red centre with a fine rim. Dense, inviting bouquet of juicy blackberries and cherries, plus tobacco, leather and a hint of thyme. Powerful and very juicy on the palate, firm, well-integrated tannins with fresh acidity, subtle saltiness on the long final." Falstaff

"A deep well of cherry, pomegranate, iron, tobacco and wild herb aromas and flavours underscore this intense red wine, while a dense layer of tannins provides grip. Lively acidity drives the lingering aftertaste of fruit, mineral and herbal notes." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Badia a Passignano has developed well and has successfully shed its oak signature. What you get now is a beautiful mouthful of rich, ripe black fruit with background notes of green spices and smoked bacon. A hint of fragrant rose comes through beautifully after a few minutes at a certain point. Overall, this wine from San Donato in Poggio UGA offers bright and lively fruit. With its long winemaking tradition and its first production in 1988, this wine is, so to speak, the control sample against which the three new UGA expressions are measured." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 has some notes of green herbs as well as bitter cherry, orange peel and sweet vanilla. There is a hint of forest green and a balsamic note as well as spicy black pepper. On the palate, the tannins are firm, upright and assertive, but always refined. The texture and weight are beautifully soft and enveloping, and the acidity gives the wine a pleasant freshness on the finish. At the moment it is still a little characterised by oak, but it is still young and needs time. A beautifully crafted wine that expresses a strong identity." Decanter

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Badia a Passignano is one of the best editions of this wine I've ever tasted. Ripe blue fruit, spice, chocolate, leather and liquorice fill out the layers in a lush, full-bodied Gran Selezione. Again, the winemaking and ageing changes have resulted in a wine that combines sophistication with textural resonance. Outstanding." Vinous

Every year, Coltassala is a red wine that offers all the essentials - and in impeccable style. On the nose, black fruits, spices and ploughed earth. All the flavours are dark and spicy, but the wine remains fresh, dense, lively and very linear. The ageing in new oak gives it a modern touch without overpowering it. Coltassala 2020 is noble and refined from start to finish, and it is one of the great Chianti Classico Gran Selezione! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red with garnet-red rim brightening. Dense nose, characterised by wood ageing, lots of cigar box and tobacco, with fully ripe plums behind it. Lively and balanced on the palate, dark minerality, reminiscent of grated pencil, ripe tannins and a long, salty final." Falstaff

"A fresh, herbal yet earthy nose draws a slight sweetness from notable cherry undertones, accented on the palate by a creamy swirl of orange and vanilla, but the slightly metallic, medicinal herbal note works with polished tannins and lively acidity to create a streamlined, balanced feel." Wine Enthusiast

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Coltassala 2020 is a slender, elegant wine. Silky contours and sweet floral notes lend finesse to this very beautiful, nuanced Gran Selezione. All elements are very well balanced. Notes of black cherry, plum, liquorice and leather give it a dark note." Vinous

"Great energy, delicate violet and rose notes with intense ethereal fleshiness with fragrant red berries and cherries, fresh and flavoursome!" Decanter

"The Volpaia 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Coltassala is very balanced overall, offering an earthy side that gives a nice context to wild berries and wild cherries. There are also floral notes, especially violets and iris, and the wine maintains a firm, medium-bodied texture on the palate." Wine Advocate

"Saturated with aromas and flavours of blackcurrant, black cherry, iron and wild herbs, this red wine is firmly structured and shows fine harmony even in its youth. The supple texture is balanced by well-integrated, dusty tannins, while the fruit lingers on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"Very attractive with ripe cherries, red plums, dark chocolate and spices with a hint of dried lavender and citrus peel. Medium-bodied with plenty of energy and tension. The tannins are polished and well integrated into the wine. Very complete and balanced. Crisp and long." James Suckling

"Red cherry on the nose, myrtle notes, then hints of wild mint. Salty mouthfeel, with hints of red fruit and menthol. Aftertaste of great persistence." Luca Gardini

Initially, the wines from Etna led a rather shadowy existence; the great potential of the wines, some of which were produced in very small quantities, usually only delighted connoisseurs. Even today, many of the winegrowers are still so-called insider tips, as the wines produced in small quantities hardly appear on the international markets, or only in very homeopathic quantities. Like us here at SUPERIORE.DE, Angelo Gaja recognised the incomparable elegance and class, the minerality and the purist style of the Nerello and Carricante grapes early on and therefore entered into a joint venture with Alberto Graci a few years ago.

The great prestige and undisputed high value of the vineyards, which are up to 100 years old and divided into small parcels at an altitude of up to 1,000 metres, led to the purchase of land on the south-west side of the volcano, which was launched on the market in 2017/2019 with the red/white debut vintage. The project is called "Idda" - the local name for the Etna volcano, which the locals thus assign a clearly feminine character. Idda Bianco 2022 is now the fourth vintage from complex, iron- and copper-rich soils at 630 to 820 metres above sea level. Incidentally, these are - how could it be otherwise - among the oldest in the still young Etna DOC region.

What we immediately like about Idda Bianco is the authentic Sicilian character of its cheerful bouquet. This marvellous Carricante-based white opens with cedar wood, citrus fruits, orange peel and cherries. The fruit is never heavy, but instead offers an elegant aromatic intensity, followed by pistachio and perhaps a hint of wild fennel. The wine's volcanic identity comes into its own with ashy and salty mineral hints. Our unreserved enthusiasm for its creamy texture, length and energy! SUPERIORE.DE

"The Bianco convinces with the combination of the velvety quality of the vineyards in the south of the volcano and the salty-mineral character of the soils, its precise nose and length." Vinum

"It has a fine, smoky, flinty nose with hints of peach, mango and white flowers. In the mouth it is intense and vertical, with juicy succulence and great acidity that defines its edges. It is finely structured and tangy, with flavours of peach, citrus peel, honey, lime juice and white flowers, finishing with a gentle stoniness." Decanter

"A fresh, minerally white, with a finely meshed range of poached pear and persimmon fruit flavors, plus notes of Meyer lemon peel, almond blossoms, beeswax and chamomile. Reveals a pleasing, buoyant vibrancy to the integration of the fine china–like acidity and racy streak of salinity." Wine Spectator

"Sparkling and bright with green pear and lemon slices. Honeysuckle. Medium body with brightness and intensity of fruit. A hint of sea salt." James Suckling

"The 2022 Bianco is pleasing in many ways. It captivates with its unexpected richness of fruit, combining young peaches and apricots with white flowers and almond paste. It is round and smooth, but with an amazing mix of candied lime and salty minerals in the foreground, creating a contrast. Sweet florals on the inside complement the ripe stone fruits. The 2022 cleans beautifully, long and with a saline flair, while finishing crisp, full of tension yet delicious." Vinous

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

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

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

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

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

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

Produced in small quantities, Vallocchio clearly stands out from pure Brunello di Montalcino. Darker, deeper and more mystical, it shows notes of ripe blackberries and plums, complemented by exotic brown spices and a hint of lemon confit. Its texture is like velvet stretching across the palate, black-fruited and ripe, underpinned by minerals and cooling herbal notes. It is youthfully monolithic and dense, revealing its austere tannin core only towards the end, where notes of black tea, liquorice and a hint of cocoa emerge. SUPERIORE.DE

"Ripe, intense, mineral-spicy bouquet with dark cherries, redcurrants, cassis and rose bushes. Juicy, elegant palate with fine-grained tannins, very intense, powerful and engaging on the palate, combining the ripeness with the freshness of the vintage." Weinwisser

"Aromas of raspberries and herbs are pleasing on the nose, the wood is well integrated; compact texture, robust tannins, lively acidity, pleasantly fruity finish." Vinum

"Transparent, firm and quite deep nose with noble red and black berry aromas, some tomato, slightly smoky barrel notes, bacon and dried Mediterranean herbs. Ripe, juicy, dense fruit, still relatively present, somewhat bitter chocolate, smoky and roasted wood spice, youthful, present, yet fine and ripe tannin, a little Mediterranean herbs on the palate, dark ethereal spice, lots of power, but also cooling elements, some coffee grounds in the background, good depth, very good, firm finish with dark juice and spice. Needs to mature." Wein-Plus

"Bright ruby garnet colour. Initially restrained on the nose, opens up to pepper, dried kitchen herbs and wild berries, with plum in the background. Inviting on the palate, rich, juicy cherry fruit, savoury, still young in the mid-palate, nicely salty on the final." Falstaff

"Grown in the south-east of Montalcino, this wine is customarily ripe and powerful, but balances its components - a powerful body, generous alcohol and a rich structure. Noticeable oak nuances of sweet spice and vanilla are at the forefront, but a foundation of pure cherry and dark plum simmers at the core." Decanter

"Well marked by new oak, this version adds a vanilla note and a layer of tannins to its cherry, floral and iron flavours, all supported by a solid structure. In the end, it finds a nice balance and a sense of elegance." Wine Spectator

"The Brunello di Montalcino Vallocchio 2019 is spicy and earthy in the glass, with a beguiling mix of ash stones, undergrowth and a hint of animal musk opening the stage and giving way to mentholated black cherries. It feels velvety and almost creamy on the palate, with a rich blend of ripe red and black fruits emphasised by salty minerals. Grippy tannins are added towards the end. The 2019 finishes structured and impressively long, with a hint of pine shavings and a bitter tang that lingers on and on. It should be stored in the cellar." Vinous

"Flavours of crushed berries and flowers with some bark and mushrooms. Medium to full body with medium, round tannins and fresh acidity. Nice balance and finesse." James Suckling

"The Fanti 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vallocchio shows a pronounced savoury side with tobacco leaf, roasted chestnut shells, dark plums, honeycomb or honey roasted almonds. The tannins are dissolved, almost silky, and there is plenty of concentrated fruit to develop the rich texture. The alcohol content is 15%, but is well integrated into the dark fruitiness of the wine." Wine Advocate

"A selection from the five most historic vineyards, a mosaic of excellence. Black cherry on the nose, with hints of chinotto and lemon thyme. The mouthfeel is reminiscent of citrus fruits and black cherry, a hint of roasted nuts and ends with official notes." Luca Gardini

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

Vicoregio 36 is the successor to the ambitious Mix 36 and, since 2017, a true Chianti Classico Gran Selezione. As a result of 50 years of research, 36 biotypes of the Sangiovese grape were planted on a sunny plateau near Castelnuova Berardenga, from which this extremely interesting and independent wine was created a few years ago. The overall impression is very balanced and straightforward with hints of red cherries, spices, dried blueberries and tobacco. It is the warmest and most balanced of the three Gran Selezione wines. Its intensity, richness of colour and precise fruit instantly captivate the Sangiovese lover. SUPERIORE.DE

"Raspberry-scented seducer with floral and herbal notes; flattering on the palate, silky tannin, embedded in fine acidity, ends long and fresh. Pleases with its elegance and no-frills style. Among the best cuts of Viennese beef cuisine." Vinum

"Bright ruby red. In the nose initially marked by rich noble wood, then after blood orange and fresh raspberries, pink roses in the finish. Compact and with clear fruit on the palate, shows itself polished and radiant, pithy, minimal afterdrying in the final." Falstaff

"Deep ruby red with orange reflections. Brooding and with the faintest suggestion of gingerbread and sweet oak. In this youthful state, the palate is similar to that of the Castello di Fonterutoli Gran Selezione of the same vintage, but this is slightly richer and with firmer, if polished, tannins. Enormous length. Monumental and far from finished." Jancis Robinson

"Mazzei's expression of the Vagliagli commune comes from a vineyard planted with 36 different Sangiovese biotypes, the result of 50 years of research. At an altitude of 350 metres, it is the lowest of the winery's three Gran Selezione sites and also the most expansive and supple. It leads with mocha, dried cherry and balsam wood and wears its oak well. The purity of the red berries shows on the palate with toasty flavours. This wine is full yet gracefully structured, with appetisingly integrated acidity." Decanter

"This classy red boasts a core of ripe, juicy plum, cherry and blackberry fruit framed by a subtle touch of new oak and a mineral underpinning. Reveals refined tannins, which should come into the fold over the next five to seven years as this integrates fully. Shows terrific balance and length, with finesse and complexity." Wine Spectator

"This is the third vintage in which this wine has the Gran Selezione designation. The fruit comes from an experimental vineyard at an altitude of 350 metres with compact clay soils (with some stones for loosening), good aeration and a dominant southern exposure. The property is 12.5 hectares and was acquired in 1997. Following the graceful 2018 vintage, the Mazzei 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Fonterutoli Vicoregio 36 shows medium-bodied concentration and sweet tannins with plenty of dark fruit, spice, scrub and wild mint." Wine Advocate

"A very straightforward and fine Chianti Classico with crisp cherry fruit and a hint of minerals. Medium body. Crisp and lively finish. Closed and dense on the mid palate." James Suckling

Initially, the wines from Etna led a rather shadowy existence; the great potential of the wines, some of which were produced in very small quantities, usually only delighted connoisseurs. Even today, many of the winegrowers are still so-called insider tips, as the wines produced in small quantities hardly appear on the international markets, or only in very homeopathic quantities. Like us here at SUPERIORE.DE, Angelo Gaja recognised the incomparable elegance and class, the minerality and the purist style of the Nerello and Carricante grapes early on and therefore entered into a joint venture with Alberto Graci a few years ago.

The great prestige and undisputed high value of the vineyards, which are up to 100 years old and divided into small parcels at an altitude of up to 1,000 metres, led to the purchase of land on the south-west side of the volcano, which was launched on the market in 2017 with the debut vintage. The project is called "Idda" - the local name for the Etna volcano, to which the locals ascribe a clearly feminine character. Idda Rosso 2018 is now the second vintage from complex, iron- and copper-rich soils at 630 to 820 metres above sea level. Incidentally, these are - how could it be otherwise - among the oldest in the still young Etna DOC region.

Typical ruby red colour with a matt sheen. Well-defined and clean on the nose, with notes of cherry, small, mostly red fruits and a subtle, delicate spiciness. Fresh on the palate, opens wide and finishes with a spicy note and considerable length. The tannins, very well extracted, delicately caress the palate. A wine full of elegance and harmony, with pronounced terroir typicity and recognisable ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Idda 2020 Etna Rosso, the result of the famous joint venture between Gaja and Graci, shows itself in the glass with a deep ruby-red intensity and a lively appearance. The bouquet reveals aromas of dried cherries, blue flowers, ashes from the campfire and grilled rosemary. These are joined by vegetal and floral notes as well as the volcanic flavours that are always characteristic of Etna's red wines. On the palate, the wine is slender and elegant with a nice tannic tension. It is firm without being bitter or powdery." Wine Advocate

"This 2020 is ever-so-slightly smoky with a lovely ripe, fresh scent of plum, cherry and red hedgerow berries. It has a tart attack of wild red fruits, forming the spearhead of a vertical palate which remains bright and tangy yet with a deft softness and suppleness of plum, strawberry and black cherry. Balsamic, stony and mineral, it finishes with a breezy, herbal waft and palate-refreshing acidity which lingers for minutes." Decanter

"Brilliant ruby red with a delicately brightening garnet rim. Expressive nose of raspberries and ripe currants, with fine blood orange, wet stone and some cold smoke. Polished on the palate with a creamy texture, juicy, racy, vibrant, fiery final with slightly perceptible alcohol, long." Falstaff

"Perfumed nose of red berries, spiced cherries, hazelnuts and smoke. Medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins and bright acidity. Balanced and round with a silky texture on the mid-palate and volume on the concentrated, long finish. It really grows on the palate. Better after 2024." James Suckling

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

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

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

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

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

Zitelle Barchetta (only 1,400 bottles) is a Sauvignon Bianco from the micro-vineyard of the same name, which is only produced in very small quantities. It is a rich and exuberant expression of the very aromatic grape variety. Barchetta is fermented in oak and matured in barriques for ten months. The result is a wine that is very atypical for Sauvignon Blanc. Its more oxidative style of vinification leads to a creamy consistency, followed by warm notes of summer peach, roasted almonds and passion fruit. Complex, harmonious and very distinctive! SUPERIORE.DE

"Inviting, with a nose of bell pepper, herb, lemon and freshly cut grass; palate of white peach, white flower and lemon." Decanter

"The 2021 Sauvignon Vigneto Zitelle Barchetta is intense, pouring from the glass with an array of pungent herbs and flowers enhanced by crushed lime and sweet smoke. Its texture is deep and smooth, lapping the palate with a silky texture, while a core of sour citrus and tart orchard fruits provide contrast. The tantalising acidity makes the mouth water as the 2021 finishes with notes of sour melon and lime." Vinous

The grapes for this fine white wine from the north side of Mount Etna come from the 3-hectare Contrada Muganazzi in the municipality of Passopisciaro. The skeleton-rich and pH-neutral soils are rich in iron and nitrogen and offer ideal conditions for fresh, acidic and mineral white wines. The wine is matured in equal parts in wood and stainless steel for 12 months on the fine lees. Muganazzi is neither a lean wine, nor is it too full-bodied. It is somewhere in between, with thick layers of peach, apricot and lots of fresh citrus fruit. The mineral notes such as gravel, flint and volcanic ash are very evident. An elegant, powerful Carricante with great drinking flow that clearly shows the signature of the sensitive Alberto Graci. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is a very fresh and lively white wine with flavours of lime zest, stones, lemon peel, mussels and herbs. Medium body with bright acidity. Textured finish." James Suckling

"This elegant white shows fine knit, layering sleek acidity with flavors of star fruit and persimmon, Marcona almond and quince paste, plus accents of chamomile and white pepper. The finish is driven by a rich underpinning of salty minerality." Wine Spectator

"This 2021 is the second vintage from Graci's Contrada Muganazzi, located in Passopisciaro and made from the estate's youngest vines. Aromatic summer meadow, lemon, peach and apple lead to a very flavoursome, stony palate with juicy peach, orange zest and a waxy character on the finish." Decanter

"The 2021 Etna Bianco Muganazzi is the star among the white wines in the Graci portfolio. The wine offers a nice texture with mild creaminess and good complexity. You get candied lemon, honey and pastry cream, and of course there is gravel and volcanic ash to make an ever more interesting wine. This is a light-coloured white wine from a purely volcanic area. Give it a little more time to develop." Wine Advocate

Alongside Fragore, Etna-Cru Donnafugata, named after the Contrada Marchesa vineyard of the same name, is Donnafugata's second top wine from the volcano. Its label is adorned with a volcano goddess decorated with flowers and fruit, next to which is the medieval village of Castiglione di Sicilia. The Nerello vines grow on a lava soil rich in minerals, and the location to the north of the volcano ensures temperate summers with strong temperature fluctuations between day and night.

This single-varietal Nerello presents itself in a light ruby red colour and reveals a generous bouquet of small red berries, spicy notes (cinnamon and black pepper) and undergrowth, followed by balsamic nuances and a delicate mineral vein. On the palate, in addition to its structure, the indescribable balance, convincing freshness and ultra-fine tannins are a delight. This great wine glides aristocratically and full of elegance into a deep finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Exudes a sensual aroma of forest fruits with notes of smoke and sandalwood; pithy on the palate, robust tannins, juicy, compact texture, balanced and long final. Combines character and length." Vinum

"A wine that expresses ripe cherries and raspberries with intense, dusty tannins, earthy depth and a very vertical, mineral palate." Decanter

"The Donnafugata 2019 Etna Rosso Contrada Marchesa offers obvious oak spice, especially at this early stage, and the wine will certainly need more time in bottle, even just another year, to develop. There is dark fruit and blackcurrant, but also cinnamon and sweet nutmeg. The finish is dense and structured." Wine Advocate

Dense with complex fruit flavours, lots of extract, soft, mouth-filling, unusually velvety and enveloped in gentle tannins. Matured in small barriques of old and new oak and in traditional Tuscan wooden barrels. Riecine has been producing one of the most subtle Chianti Classico wines for years - a marvellous wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium carmine red colour. Lively, fresh cherry and raspberry fruit with savoury, spicy notes in the background. Cool raspberry fruit on the palate with plenty of fresh acidity and fine tannins that linger on the palate. Very long and precise." Jancis Robinson

"Shows its harmonious side again, on the one hand charming, with juicy fruit and creamy, then also with fine acidity and depth." Weinwisser

"The Chianti Classico 2021 is a very beautiful, elegant wine. Sweet floral notes open the wine, followed by ripe red cherries, blood oranges, mint and rose petals. This medium-bodied, noble Chianti Classico is a winner." Vinous

"It smells of raspberries, potting soil, roses and cherry blossom. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and transparent, with flavours of redcurrant and orange peel. The light tannins are powdery in texture and the racy acidity electrifies with nervous energy." Decanter

"Intense aromas and flavors of cherry, raspberry and spices mark this succulent, harmonious red, which firms up nicely on the finish, where iron and tobacco accents emerge." Wine Spectator

"Dark ruby red with brightening edges. Medium intensity nose of juniper, sweet cherry and a hint of pomegranate. Very fresh on the palate, with a fine fruit flavour and grippy tannins, carries well through to the juicy finish." Falstaff

"Aromas of black cherries and violets with a hint of lemon peel. Also gravel. Medium body, well-integrated tannins and a creamy texture with beautiful tannins and fruit." James Suckling

"A Sangiovese, lively, intense and spicy. Liquorice on the nose, then undergrowth and red raspberry. Iodised on the palate, surprisingly persistent, with an aftertaste of red mulberry." Luca Gardini

Cherry-accentuated bouquet with hints of violet flowers, clove, cigar box and a pleasant spicy sweetness. Dense and expressive on the palate, it opens vibrant and multi-layered and then reveals a wonderful load of black cherry, exotic spices and a fine salty vein. The perfectly balanced tannins always provide the necessary balance and give it a racy, very long finish with its extremely refined flavour components. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense fruity bouquet, ripe, rich cherry fruit, sweet tobacco, coffee beans, pomegranate juice. Meltingly dense on the palate, again with lots of pomegranate fruit and redcurrant, still very tannic, but has a lovely fruit to counter it. Needs to mature." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby red with a brightening rim. Nose of wild strawberries and rosehip, some sweet tobacco. Clear expression on the palate, juicy fruit and good tension, robust tannins, subtle vegetal hints and fine fruit on the final, high drinking flow." Falstaff

"With an abundance of Mediterranean herbs, forest shrubs and sweet spices, it shows a beautiful freshness and precision. On the palate, vanilla and eucalyptus play around the wild berries. Surprisingly, it is still a little edgy, but flows smoothly with gritty tannins and lively acidity. The youthful exuberance still needs to calm down a little, as the warming alcohol is evident." Decanter

"Cherry, plum, leather, earth and tomato leaf flavours accent this broad, bold red, with iron and toasty accents creeping in on the finish. Juicy and long, with a dusty grip at the end." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a beautiful interpretation of the terroir of north-west Montalcino, with a dark, seductive bouquet of sage and rosemary that fades into crushed blackberries and stone dust. The wine opens with a lovely inner sweetness that is perfectly balanced by crisp red fruit, mineral tones and a core of lively acidity. The finish is grippy and long yet surprisingly fresh, with an aftertaste of primary concentration that lingers." Vinous

"On the palate, this wine is very fine with wonderfully integrated tannins that add tension and focus. It is medium-bodied with lovely berries, cherries, cedar and spice. Also peaches and floral stems. Creamy texture. Extremely long and lively. Structured but with lovely drinkability and wonderful balance and shape." James Suckling

"Red currant on the nose, notes of peony and rhubarb, then sensations of clementine zest. Sapid drinkability, recalls of red currant notes and floral. Good persistence and a citrusy finish." Luca Gardini