Decanter

Medium, bright ruby red colour. The bouquet and flavour are dominated by interesting notes of fresh cut flowers, sweet red berries, liquorice, mint, pine and cedar wood. As the wine progresses, the Chianti Classico reveals a marvellous precision and spiciness, which is enveloped by a well-measured extract sweetness. The overall impression is one of grace and an open-hearted style, which impresses with all its components and not least with its typical Radda Sangiovese freshness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium red; reductive, appealing; round, balanced, fruit, dense, round tannin, very pleasing." (JLF) Merum

"10% Merlot gives this animating Chianti Classico a rich mouthfeel, it glides velvety over the palate and offers plenty of fruit." Weinwisser

"Intense, radiant ruby red colour. Inviting on the nose, with elegant spice and red cherry fruit, light peach flavour. On the palate with tightly woven tannins, fresh, with clear fruit and subtle spice, beautiful length, drinks very well." Falstaff

"On the nose, dark chocolate links sweet cherry and vanilla to savory tomato leaf and earth. The streaks of cherry, chocolate and vanilla continue on the palate, with strawberries highlighting their sweetness, but well-timed tannins and acid boost the enduring, vegetal tomato note to maintain balance." Wine Enthusiast

"This Annata opens to reveal generous plums and strawberries flecked with black pepper. Sweet red berries fill the mouth while showing the brightness and freshness associated with the heights of Radda. The balanced tannins have a slightly chalky texture that adds a special touch to this delicious red wine." Decanter

"The 2021 Chianti Classico is an absolute delight. Fragrant, silky and super-expressive, the 2021 captures all the finesse of Radda. Crushed red berry fruit, rose petals, orange peel and mint are beautifully brought out in this vibrant, medium-bodied Chianti Classico that has so much to offer. It's a beautiful performance." Vinous

"A racy version with flavours of black cherries, blueberries, violets and iron. It has firm tannins that harmonise with the acidity, while a hint of Mediterranean scrub shines through. Mouthwatering finish." Wine Spectator

"Balanced blend of Sangiovese and Merlot, notes of redcurrants, undergrowth and liquorice on the nose, wild mint on the finish. Juicy attack, dense and crisp, salty-sour tannins, very long finish. Closes with a return of small red fruits." Luca Gardini

Since summer 2023, Chianti Classico producers have been allowed to include the eleven additional geographical indications (UGA = unità geografiche aggiuntive) introduced in 2021 on the labels of the top Gran Selezione category. For Chianti Classico winegrowers, it is a logical step to produce wines that reflect the area in which they were produced as authentically as possible. And customers can thus deepen their knowledge of the relationship between the wines and their region of origin - a real added value.

The grapes for Ricasoli's classic come from a south-facing plot at an ideal altitude of 250 to 450 metres above sea level. Castello di Brolio Gran Selezione is a wonderful wine with great richness and depth. It has an intense bouquet of small red berries, violets and spices. The flavour reveals precision, structure and freshness. The tannin and acidity are well-balanced and promise a long life and an interesting ageing period. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, medium ruby red colour. Opens elegantly on the nose with aromas of redcurrants, orange peel and juicy cherries. Cool fruit on the palate, very elegant, well-integrated tannins, exciting and persistent final." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio 2021 smells of red Sangiovese fruit, white pepper, cedar wood, tobacco, incense and dried herbs. In the glass, the Riserva is bright and complex, with great energy, another good offering from the Ricasoli family. In fact, the 2021 is one of the best editions I have ever tasted." Vinous

"The Barone Ricasoli 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole Castello di Brolio, now labelled with the Gaiole sub-region on the back label, displays a beautiful bouquet densely packed with carefully ripened fruit. The aromas are characterised by hints of candied cherries intermingled with orris root, dried mint and spice. This generous Sangiovese finishes with lingering freshness." Wine Advocate

"A core of ripe cherries, plums and pomegranates permeates this lively, complex red wine. A balanced version with a firm grip on the finish that complements its fresh acidity. The long aftertaste recalls the fruit and mineral and Mediterranean shrub notes." Wine Spectator

"Ricasoli's flagship wine is a blend of grapes from vineyards in Gaiole on the most important soil types of the Chianti Classico: Macigno (sandstone), Galestro and Alberese. The wine shows delicate notes of dark cherries and spiced plums, which are followed in the mouth by a wonderfully vertical structure in which the juicy fruit floats and the savoury edges vibrate with energy. The fruit has a wonderful juiciness, and the tannins are supportive but play a subordinate role. Absolute class." Decanter

"Intense and balanced, perfect standard bearer of the winery. Intense and complex nose, red mulberry, hints of cloves, a touch of laurel and rhubarb. The sip has spicy tannins, a hint of floral nuances and a finish with an officinal return." Luca Gardini

"This wine is so elegant, with a finesse and sensitivity that are so fascinating. It is delicate and almost weightless, with a beautiful and energetic balance of fruit and acidity. It is medium-bodied and extremely long. Medium chewiness. It goes on and on. Dark cherries, bark and lots of flowers on the finish." James Suckling

La Grola is the historic vineyard that gave its name to Corvina, the autochthonous grape of Valpolicella, which is probably its origin. The replanting of the vineyard by Giovanni Allegrini sparked an agronomic revolution and laid the foundations for the success of this wine-growing area, which today is home to great red wines from north-eastern Italy.

So it is not surprising that La Grola receives a special honour from its magnificent location. Since 2010, Allegrini has been collaborating with internationally renowned artists, publishing year after year a unique, limited artist edition. The edition opened with a work by Milo Manara, continued in 2011 with a label designed by Arthur Duff and continued in 2012 with a painting by Athos Faccincani. The composition VI by Wassily Kandinsky was selected for La Grola in 2013, and in 2014 the artistic journey went to Brazil and to Nazareno Rodrigues Alves, before returning to Italy with the 2015 edition to Leonardo Ulian.

The 2016 vintage was interpreted by a great Japanese artist: Hiroyuki Masuyama. In a highly innovative process, La Grola's Limited Edition ennobles the fascinating synthesis of overlapping shots. A total of 288 photographs are incorporated into this work, showing one of the legendary vineyards of Valpolicella from an exciting and completely new perspective. Time and space are the fundamental elements of Hiroyuki Masuyama's overall creativity: everything revolves around these two concepts, which have been formalised differently over the years and have become the hallmark of his work. Masuyama combines and overlaps the result of hundreds of photographs taken of his subject from a fixed angle. The result of this superimposition is another image of the same place.

We are pleased to be able to offer you some copies of the special edition, which is strictly limited every year!

Dense, dark ruby red, in the nose very full-bodied and strong with tones of forest and overripe berries. The rich fullness from coffee to black cherries is accompanied by present, pleasant tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"Lovely balance, as always, to this super Veronese red with juicy dark fruit and hints of black chocolate. Medium to full body, succulent tannins and a fresh finish." James Suckling

"Very inky and toasty nose. On the palate the wine is elegant, fresh and poised with classy, well-integrated oak, flavours of plums and cherries and tight tannins, which will soften in time." Decanter

 

The strictly selected grapes come from the vineyard "Il Corno" of approx. 400 m altitude with ideal southern exposure. Bright, sparkling ruby red. Well structured nose of blackberries, cassis, some cedar and shoe polish. Medium ripe, quite fresh fruit on the palate, yet supple and well balanced with all the volume. In the rest of the drink with great finesse, coolness and liveliness, the finish is long with well integrated wood, red fruitiness, with a slightly salty vein and lots of spice. A harmonious and well-proportioned top wine of the house, which can rightly bear the highest quality level Gran Selezione. SUPERIORE.DE

"Pure varietal Sangiovese full of elegance and polish; complex nose with lots of fruit and nuances of sandalwood and spices; polished attack with well-structured tannins and minerality, finishes long and balanced." Vinum

"Radiant, dark ruby red with brightening rim. Elegant on the nose with precise, crisp fruit on cherry, plus violets, elder and subtle oak notes. Polished on the palate, with crisp acidity, very well integrated fine tannin, pulls through steely to the final with fine fruit notes." Falstaff

"On the nose the fruit is still a little subdued. Hints of malt. Really takes its time to open up. Bags of sour-cherry fruit on the palate. Lots of juice and fruit, but maintains elegance throughout. Tangy finish with finely ground tannins and jewel-like acidity." Jancis Robinson

"A big, concentrated red marked by black cherry, blackberry, plum and tar aromas and flavors. As this plays out on the gripping finish, the intense flavors are matched by stiff tannins. Long and fresh." Wine Spectator

"This wine absolutely stands out and is poised to evolve carefully over time. The Castello di Radda 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna il Corno is focused and bright with vibrant fruit, cassis, grilled herb and blue flower. Made with Sangiovese only, the wine is true to the grape and to the classic vintage. It remains streamlined and polished on the palate." Wine Advocate

"Vigna Il Corno (‘the horn’) is made with grapes from a plot at 400m on a calcareous clay soil. Fermentation is in 50hl stainless steel tanks, malolactic in new 5hl oak tonneaux, then 24 months in the same casks and an additional 12 months of bottle ageing. Dark, brooding, flinty style on nose, cherries and woodland notes. Refined, slick and smooth, lively with good concentration. Federico Moccia: Red fruit and violet aromas, rose floral notes. Racy, juicy palate with herbal notes, tannins well integrated, cherry and redcurrant juice. Refreshing, with great purity. Michaela Morris: Classic spiced cherry with forest cedar. Still quite sweet-wood driven, but admirable fruit purity on the palate, the oak quite integrated. Concentrated with good tannin backbone, finishes bright." Decanter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Benanti's latest white wine comes 100% from the small vineyard (Contrada) Cavaliere. The vineyards in the municipality of Santa Maria di Licodìa develop at a considerable altitude (approx. 900 metres above sea level) with favourable conditions for all indigenous varieties, both red and white berries, which are cultivated here with Guyot pruning. Here, both the Nerello and the Carricante produce wines with a well-defined structure and typical varietal flavours. The vines are around 50 years old and grow on sandy, volcanic soil that is rich in minerals. The climate is alpine, with little rainfall and provides the vines with a high degree of ventilation and very large temperature differences between day and night.

Straw yellow in colour with bright green reflections. The bouquet is intense, rich, generous and delicately fruity with hints of orange blossom and ripe apple. The palate is dry, mineral, harmonious with a pleasant acidity, aromatic pressure and an interesting aftertaste of aniseed and almonds. SUPERIORE.DE

"A little more mellow and riper than the Etna Bianco with its yellow-fruity character. In the mouth with a melting character that is beautifully balanced and wonderfully cushioned by the saline acidity, which also gives the wine freshness and piquancy." Weinwisser

"Intense and vertical, it's full of fresh citrus and herbs, with some leesy creaminess and a finish of lemon posset and pear. Delicious." Decanter

"This bright, open-knit white crackles with acidity and shows savoury notes of white pepper and grapefruit peel, as well as hints of peach skin, smoke, preserved lemon and lentils. Salty finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2022 Etna Bianco Contrada Cavaliere is youthfully shy with a delicately perfumed blend of wild flowers, white smoke and green apples with gingery notes. The wine is pure, elegant and refined, with a salty minerality on the attack and crunchy fruit that gives an equally crisp feel towards the finish. The 2022 finishes colourful and long with youthful tension, a hint of salinity and a feeling of liquid stone." Vinous

"This wine has the richness of the 2021 vintage, but is not heavy or ponderous. It shows intensity of flavour with cake crust, light caramel and dried fruit. Full-bodied, with a phenolic tension and acidity that give it its shape. Drink it now." James Suckling

Selection of 100% Sangiovese grapes from the estate's vineyards, which are located on the south-eastern and south-western slopes of the municipality of Montalcino at an altitude of 250 to 400 metres above sea level. The soils have an open sandy texture with clay and abundant Galestro skeleton. The wines are aged for at least 24 months in Liters French oak barrels and in Slavonian oak barrels with a capacity of 15-25 hl. This is followed by ageing in the bottle. Talentis Brunello has an intense ruby red colour with garnet reflections, a broad bouquet on the nose, slightly spicy. In the mouth it is full, intense, soft and velvety with elegant and sweet tannins. Wonderful value. SUPERIORE.DE

"The nose is on the cherry side, with a hint of mocha and flowers; the attack is delicate, the clean tannins and acidity in harmony, with a long finish. Also very successful in this vintage." Vinum

"Bright ruby red colour. Very elegant and clear nose of sugared cherry fruit, rosehips, shortbread and Assam tea, freshly ground pepper on the finish. Elegant on the palate, with clear fruit, great acidity and a tense finish, very precise, stunning vintage Brunello!" Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red colour. Spicy, aromatic but not sweet oak notes and subdued fruit. Polished cherry and raspberry fruit with a nice bite of ripe tannins on the finish and fully integrated oak. Elegant weight on the palate." Jancis Robinson

"Perfumed, with red berries, cherries and a hint of rose stems on the nose. Medium-bodied, with plenty of wood and richness. Powerful and a little austere, but should soften and come together with age." James Suckling

"It is less exuberant than usual, with mineral and ferrous notes in the lead role. Dried mint and fennel emerge on opening. The palate is full-bodied and fruity, offering great depth of expressive red berry and stony earth flavours. The ripe yet grippy tannins are tightly knit." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens slowly with a mix of savoury herbs, worn leather, dried roses and cinnamon-dusted currants. It flows across the palate with textures of pure silk, racy yet refined, with a seamless wave of ripe red fruit that slowly saturates towards the finish. The finish is long, colourful yet harmonious. Crisp tannins frame the experience without slowing the momentum, while liquorice and orange notes gradually fade away. This fantastic, energised version of Talenti's Brunello will thrive in the cellar over the next ten to fifteen years." Vinous

"Ripe, sweet cherry, raspberry and iron flavours underline this powerful, juicy red wine, which has a great personality, with a wide range of tannins to go with lively acidity and lingering fruit. Overall, a well-balanced wine with a long, lingering aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The Talenti 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a wine of above-average intensity that consistently impresses with its dark aromas of blackcurrant, pitted plum, floral earth and a pungent fragrance reminiscent of black baccara rose. It is a rich and open Brunello with velvety tannins and a full-bodied mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"The project is based on Pierluigi's vision, which Riccardo brings to the full expression of the south-west quadrant of the DOCG. On the nose, notes of red plums, star anise and hints of wild rosemary. Juicy mouthfeel, with perfectly integrated tannins and hints of sweet spices." 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

In the very well-balanced 2019 vintage, the winery offers us an extremely flavoursome and juicy wine that carries the spirit of Montalcino from the first to the last sip. Fine notes of sage and mint beautifully round off the warm, ripe and extremely rich fruit bouquet. The palate prances with a fine red berry acid wire that is underpinned by a great velvety texture. On the other hand, it is a taut, precise and particularly fresh Brunello that delights us even at a young age. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, spicy bouquet with fully ripe fruit, blue berries, ripe cherries, leather and sweet spices. Juicy and beguiling on the palate with redcurrant and pomegranate, followed by tobacco and delicate mineral and herbal notes with balsamic nuances. Very juicy and full of finesse, full of crackling tension and yet so seductive, stylish and powerful. It scores with its subtle and refined style on the spicy final." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby-garnet colour with a brightening rim. Extremely appealing nose, fine aromas of roses, ripe dark cherries, fresh blackberries and a hint of saffron. Supple on the palate with lush fruit, but then also shows grippy, present tannins, firm pressure on the final, long finish." Falstaff

"The Brunello is made from a large number of south-facing, airy plots at an altitude of 240 to 360 metres. The exceptionally fragrant 2019 wine smells of sweet Mediterranean herbs, arbutus and raspberries. It is medium-bodied with soft, sandy tannins and captivates with its tangerine freshness. While a hint of warming alcohol shines through, it retains its graceful stature." Decanter

"Sour cherries with undertones of stone and bark in the flavours. Medium body, firm tannins and a long, linear finish that ends tightly. However, it softens with age. Subtle bark and dried mushroom character at the end." James Suckling

"Dusky cherry and plum flavors are the main themes in this red, with accents of leather, spices and wild herbs. Lively and focused, with excellent harmony and a sequel of ripe cherry on the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"This wine is not to be confused with a Brunello. The Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2019 Brunello di Montalcino shows a beautiful continuity that unfolds in sync on the nose and palate. There are aromas of grilled watermelon, red cherry, garden herbs and violets, and there is a charred note reminiscent of toasted oak. The bouquet is very balanced, but on the palate it is much more powerful, thanks to the high alcohol content of 15% and the young tannins that hit the palate. Give this wine a few more years of bottle ageing." Wine Advocate

"A compact Brunello from Ciacci Piccolomini. The nose opens with notes of cranberry, then marjoram and a hint of eucalyptus. Juicy and taut drinkability, tasty tannins, closes with a return of small fruits and balsamic sensations." Luca Gardini

With the exception of 2016 and 2019, the last eight years in the region around Montalcino have been characterised by warm and dry conditions. For this reason, Il Poggione has started to prioritise irrigation for emergencies (which is becoming more and more of a necessity in the south-west of Montalcino) and is looking for a better balance in the higher vineyards. This is not the only reason why Il Poggione is one of the top producers every year, with an extremely fair value.

Oenologist Alessandro Bindocci compares the 2019 and 2016 vintages as follows "Both Brunellos are quite classic, but the 2019 has more energy and fruit than the 2016 at the same stage."

Opens as a medium-dark appearance with a pretty Sangiovese lustre and ruby red shimmer. In the glass, the 2019 shows a wildly romantic side and a dense fruit profile. The aromatic focus is on blackberries, dried cherries, tobacco and a hint of smoked tobacco or horse saddle. On the palate, a contrasting spectacle of dark red fruits, sweet spices and salty mineral notes; all supported by a silky texture and lively acidity. As it progresses, it has a beautiful, firm grip and a stable backbone, with youthful tension and fine-grained tannins, which will give it great ageing potential. Il Poggione is a safe bet every year, and not just for us, and the 2019 edition is once again one of the best representatives of this noble appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Notes of blackberries and herbs, also tobacco; pithy structure, robust tannins, combines character and good length." Vinum

"Dense bouquet with ripe red and dark fruits, blueberries, wild strawberries, cassis and redcurrants. Behind this, the oak barrel ageing is also evident with a fine animal note, cedar, tobacco, chocolate, dark spices and herbs. Fleshy, dense palate with a coarse-meshed tannin network, but of the best quality. Very persistent and full-bodied on the final." Weinwisser

"Dark, youthful ruby red colour. Very closed and brooding with just a hint of fragrant raspberry, tea leaves and oak. Generous and compact on the palate. A layer of soft cherry and raspberry fruit, lined with quite powerful tannins that need more time. Carries its 15% with ease. Closes on the finish and needs more time." Jancis Robinson

"Lots of dried fruit, such as figs and dried cherries, followed by tree bark, rosemary and a hint of sandalwood. Full-bodied and creamy on the palate with a solid tannin structure. Wonderful length. Dense and opulent." James Suckling

"The Il Poggione 2019 Brunello di Montalcino shows a developed bouquet with aromas of dried fruit, forest floor, crushed flowers and autumnal foliage. A second nose reveals dark liquorice, wet slate, cola and grilled rosemary. The tannins are powdery and dry." Wine Advocate

"It offers plenty of plum, cherry, iron, tobacco and undergrowth flavours supported by a plump texture that matches the dense structure, as well as a lively acidity that keeps everything in focus. Another year of ageing should allow the finish to expand and this wine to reach its full potential." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 vintage is very balanced, somewhere between 2016, 2013 and 2010. Sant'Angelo in Colle, which suffers in warmer vintages, has done very well and Il Poggione is a great example of the harmony of the area's wines in this vintage. At first sniff it is fruity, later becoming more restrained, with black cherry, violets, leather, graphite and the typical nutty finish. The chalky tannins are extracted but velvety, emphasised by an almost piquant acidity." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino draws the taster close to the glass with its dark and earthy blend of crushed ash stones giving way to rosemary, cedar, exotic spices and a core of raspberry jam. Enveloping and serene, it flows across the palate like pure silk, steadily building tension as tart wild berry and orange notes give way to a sweet herbal push. The 2019 finishes with tremendous length and is classically structured as crisp tannins linger and purple flowers slowly fade over a tactile layer of minerality. Il Poggione has captured the vibrancy of the vintage, yet it is still a baby today." Vinous

"Fresh nose, pomegranate, notes of lemongrass and ginger with citrus notes. Salty tannins on the palate, reminiscence of pomegranate and notes of ginger." Luca Gardini

Here comes the debut vintage of a great white wine from a classic red wine region. In a small edition of less than 6,000 bottles, an elegant and at the same time very independent Trebbiano was created, which rightly bears the label based on the famous "Castello di Brolio" Chianti Classico Gran Selezione. The white Trebbiano grape variety has a tradition of over a hundred years at Brolio, and the grapes for this white cru come from a small 1.18-hectare plot in the company's own Tarci vineyard. According to tradition, a monument was erected here to San Barnaba, the protector of the vineyards from hail.

Its production is as special as the wine itself: it was matured in Tuscan cocciopesto amphorae, with the skins macerating for around three months. The wine was then aged for a year, 40% in amphorae, 30% in stainless steel tanks and 30% in second and third passage tonneaux.

Sanbarnaba surprises with its elegance and intensity. It has a golden yellow colour with amber reflections. On the nose, it opens with floral and fruity notes, followed by honey flavours, spice and herbs. It is soft and very harmonious on the palate. Its acidity and freshness with a fine mineral note accompany the extremely flavoursome experience right through to the long finish. Very exceptional! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, light golden yellow colour. Notes of jasmine blossom, pear and some baked apple on the nose. Lots of taut acidity on the palate, gives tension and juiciness, salty, slightly phenolic notes on the final." Falstaff

"An attractive wine with notes of bruised apples, pear peel, savoury herbs, young walnuts and ripe cheese. Full and waxy, structured and rather fluid, but also interesting. Spicy and savoury with a delicate phenolic impression on the finish. 100% Trebbiano from 1.18 hectares of vineyard." James Suckling

"A slightly honeyed, appley aroma with floral lift leads to a textured lanolin palate. It has good underlying acidity along with a lovely line of salinity which balances its waxy weight, finishing with a refreshing twist of lime. 2020 is the first vintage of Sanbarnaba." Decanter

"This is a wine that promises modest potential for cellaring, and thanks to its natural structure it could be paired with mature cheeses or even a plate of cacio e pep. The Barone Ricasoli 2020 Castello di Brolio Sanbarnaba is aged in a combination of amphorae, stainless steel and neutral oak. Only 5,600 bottles were produced. It opens with a medium golden colour and offers nutty aromas with mango, apricot and candied orange. It finishes on a glycerine-rich note. It should be interesting to taste this bottle again in five years' time." Wine Advocate

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

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

"The 2021 Lagrein Riserva Taber opens with plummy and very ripe aromas of confit blackberries, pitted plums and a spicy note of suede or new leather. Lagrein usually has a pronounced creamy side, and this can be felt here, especially through the wine's dense texture and soft tannins. This 2021 vintage is very extracted and dense." Wine Advocate

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

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

The stunning Piane Rosso comes from 1.5 hectares of vineyards in the municipalities of Boca and Prato Sesia. These are old, rediscovered vineyards between 50 and 100 years old, whose plants were cultivated using the historic "Maggiorina system". Vineyards that can only be cultivated by hand. The exposed location on a hill ensures constant aeration, the soils are made of porphyry gravel of volcanic origin and are poor in organic matter and without lime.

The often unrecognised indigenous Croatina grape achieves high quality in Boca and virtually challenges the extremely strict selection of grapes from the best old vineyards (up to 100 years old) on Montalbano, Traversagna and Santuario. The tannin-rich variety is then tamed for two years in small and large wooden barrels. The result is impressive: the wine is intense, concentrated and shows notes of dark berries, cherries, smoke and ripe fruit. On the palate, dense substance is combined with a terrifictexture and a velvety finish. Winemaker Christoph Künzli sees this red as his clear contribution to the reinterpretation and refinement of the traditional variety in Boca, which is why this wine also bears the name of the winery. Very deep and magical - and extremely successful! SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep purple red with a smudged rim. Dark fruit that reminds me of a hedgerow - elderberry and blackberry, but also a dark spicy flavour. Strong, firm tannin structure, all in balance with the fruit. Powerful, youthful, long." Jancis Robinson

"With a bright purple colour, and hearty aromas of myrtle, red plum and black cherry. There is excellent persistence and bright, juicy fruit with lively acidity. Tannins are medium in weight and there is a wild, slightly savoury character to the wine. Produced from some of the oldest vines on the property, this is a highly distinctive red with subtle spice." Decanter

"The 2020 Piane is packed with black fruit, leather, tobacco, spice, menthol, liquorice and mocha. This heady, unctuous wine is resolutely turned up. It's a style that works very well. There's not much subtlety, but the 2020 is compelling. It's a little rustic, but still very appealing." Vinous

The 2019 Brunello vintage from Altesino stands proudly among its peers. The bouquet has a pronounced floral character with delightful notes of pressed rose petals and dried violets. The fruit tones are elegant and harmonious, ranging from light red cherries to redcurrants. Firm, well-structured on the palate, the multi-layered fruit is accentuated by a refined fennel and liquorice note. Long and stately in the final, great! SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium, ripe red; warm nose, deep ripe notes, inviting; powerful, coffee, cassis, matching tannin, length." Merum

"Already firm and compact on the nose with a fine, complex character, as is often the case on the dark red, black berry side (cassis, dark cherries), with earthy and ethereal notes reminiscent of mint. Very present and again grippy on the palate, the ripe fruit is clasped by fine tannins, the delicate acidity embraces the athletic body. This has power and fine tension. A very typical 2019." Weinwisser

"Bright, light ruby red colour. Very fragrant on the nose, of ripe currants, reminiscent of raspberries, orange juice and cold fruit tea. Shows earthy notes on the palate, ripe berry fruit and full-bodied tannins, with good pressure, warm and grippy with good length on the finish." Falstaff

"This red wine has a solid structure and shows macerated flavours of cherry, plum, earth and wild herbs, which are supported by a lively acidity. A hint of chocolate adorns the finish alongside dense tannins." Wine Spectator

"Altesino covers around 50 hectares in the northern and southern parts of Montalcino. The estate's Brunello is a blend of different vineyards and is one of the best wines in the appellation. While the bottling from Montosoli has a rather solemn tone, this 2019 is cheerful and bright. Strong redcurrants and cherries mingle with plums and aniseed. The lusciously fruity, plush palate is mouth-filling yet agile. Sandy tannins envelop and caress it, while the citrus-like acidity lightens the whole. It's already approachable and has enough depth, concentration and backbone for a solid decade of enjoyment." Decanter

"A medium-bodied red wine with beautiful plum and berry aromas and flavours. Fine tannins and a fresh finish. Very fine and concentrated. This is all about finesse and polish." James Suckling

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino has a dark ruby red colour in the glass and opens with a beguiling mix of dusty earth, crushed rock, spicy herbs and dried roses. It is racy and supple, with vibrant ripe wild berries underscored by orange and sage, all with a lively acidity. The grippy tannins take control on the finish, but hints of bitter liquorice and dark chocolate leave the mouth wanting more." Vinous

"The Altesino 2019 Brunello di Montalcino shows a rich and flavoursome side that this wine carries very well. There is a nice amount of dark fruit that blends into the velvety texture of the wine. Blackberry and plum envelop the palate, adding elegant, full-bodied volume and fine tannins." Wine Advocate

Neri's new and already very serious wine was born with the purchase of a very special vineyard. True to the winery's philosophy of making wines only from the best terroirs around Montalcino, the small 7-hectare parcel with over 45 years of vines was finally acquired in 2018. This was preceded by a friendship of over 40 years with the previous owners, with whom Giovanni Neri planted the vines and nurtured them over the past decades. It is still "only" a Rosso, but in 2023 the new star in the firmament of the Neri range will emerge here - a Brunello that will then set new standards in the appellation in terms of quality, expression and uniqueness.

Fine fragrance of strawberries, herbs and young leather. Taut and lively on the palate, the Sangiovese fruit very precisely nuanced, flanked by powerful but by no means aggressive tannins. Long and round on the palate with remarkable freshness and cheerfulness. Will gain even more in the next few years with further bottle ageing." SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, luminous ruby red. Hearty, open nose of ripe cherries and ripe raspberries, delicate cloves and noble spice. On the palate with tightly woven tannin and racy play, after fine blood oranges, very juicy and salty in the finish." Falstaff

"Giovanni Neri is the first line of Rosso di Montalcino dedicated to the founder of the estate. It comes from Sesta vineyard, purchased in 2017 and planted with 50-year-old Sangiovese vines. The wine ages in tonneaux for 15 months. Aromas of rose, violet, black berries, an almost blueberry scent, then earth and Parma violet in depth. Complex and well packed on the palate, it displays refined velvety tannins and long, delicate acidity. Cherry and violet on the finish." Decanter

"This wine delivers the goods with fruit from a very warm and sunny vintage. The Casanova di Neri 2020 Rosso di Montalcino Giovanni Neri offers an almost exotic quality with Indian spice, grilled herb, candied orange and crushed rose. In fact, a second wave of floral aromas washes over the senses with lavender bud and lilac." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Rosso di Montalcino Giovanni Neri is hauntingly dark, with masses of ashen crushed stone and exotic spices that unfold to reveal rich blackberry and plum. This is so soft and silky yet vibrant, cascading ripe red and black fruits across the palate with ease, as minerals slowly saturate. It’s lightly structured with ripe plums and spice, hints of licorice and a flourish of salty minerals. The 2019 will be enjoyable right out of the gate, but it will also hold up nicely through short-term cellaring." Vinous

Our customers had to do without Frescobaldi's Castelgiocondo for several years, as we felt that it did not sufficiently reflect the elegance and finesse of the Montalcino region. After the winery made some stylistic changes in recent years, it has evolved from a rather opulent wine into a very authentic and cool interpretation of the appellation and we would therefore not like to withhold the very successful 2019 edition from you.

Opens beautifully in the glass with sour cherries, spiced oranges and dried flowers. Creamy textures on the drink, contrasted by cool minerality and juicy acids, nicely accompanied by small red berries under a hint of sweet herbs and inner flowers. Castelgiocondo 2019 still needs some time to develop, but it has the necessary balance and structure to mature into a real beauty. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, light ruby with a granite-red rim. Deep and spicy nose of black pepper, damp earth, tobacco, cedar wood and cherry jam. Ripe fruit on the palate, finely woven tannins, lots of tension, a hint of menthol on the long finish." Falstaff

"Very dark ruby red with bright orange-coloured reflections. Rich, brooding cherry with a hint of eucalyptus. Supple fruit that is still quite curled up at the same time. Grainy, long tannins and plenty of juice on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"The Brunello comes from plots located between 350 and 450 metres above sea level on the predominantly slate-rich Galestro. Concentrated and expressive, the nose reveals an intriguing blend of red cherries, plums, nutmeg and mint. The layers of generous fruit are lush and the tannins have a suede-like texture. Undertones of sweet earth and forest permeate the wine. Well made, everything is effortlessly in place." Decanter

"The Frescobaldi 2019 Brunello di Montalcino CastelGiocondo shows notes of oak, dried spices, redwood and smoked tobacco. At its core, the wine shows dark fruit and a high level of extraction. The tannins are soft and dissolved, making this Brunello a wine that can be drunk immediately. The wine is exactly where you want it to be." Wine Advocate

"This powerful red wine is as spicy as it is fruity, with notes of cherry, plum, leather, wild thyme, woody undergrowth, iron and tobacco. Powerful, with dusty tannins that guard the long-lasting finish." Wine Spectator

"Black cherries, black bark, blackberries and lavender. Medium to full-bodied with juicy and polished tannins and a long, flavourful finish. Needs four to five years to open up and develop." James Suckling

"South-west quadrant of the appellation, a Brunello of spicy and balsamic elegance. Refined nose, black cherry, a hint of juniper, closing on cinnamon sensations. Dense and drinkable on the palate, with iodised tannins and recurring notes of black cherry, with citrus notes." Luca Gardini

Deep crimson ruby red colour. On the nose, it smells of raspberries with beautiful concentration, a peppery tingle and perfectly integrated oak. Lively, crushed red berry fruit on the palate with long, finely chiselled tannins. It closes up a little on the finish, so you can expect much more, but for now it is already irresistible. Balanced and very elegant. SUPERIORE.DE

"This iconic Sicilian wine is made from Nero d'Avola (58%) and Perricone (42%) and comes from the eight-hectare San Lucio vineyard. The Tenuta Regaleali Tasca d'Almerita 2017 Sicilia Contea di Sclafani Rosso del Conte is easy to recognise in a blind tasting thanks to its characteristic aromas of blackcurrant, olive, aniseed and scorched earth. The wine transports you straight to beautiful Sicily in the heart of the Mediterranean." Wine Advocate

"The 2017 Rosso del Conte captivates with a burst of citrus, black cherry and grilled herbs, accompanied by hints of cedar and undergrowth. It is racy and supple, with a wave of tart wild berry and mineral tones supported by a core of vibrant acidity. Grippy tannins are added towards the end. The 2017 finishes long and persistent with a rich, primary concentration. Notes of medicinal blackberries, liquorice and cocoa linger for up to a minute. The length alone is impressive, but the 2017 will need time to fully integrate. Nevertheless, I look forward to tasting it again in four to five years." Vinous

"This historic single-vineyard blend of Nero d'Avola and Perricone in 2017 is dusty, earthy and woody, with a depth of dark fruits and overtones of lavender and violet. In the mouth it's intense, ripe and spicy, combining sweetness of dried cherry with wild strawberry and black cherry. Balsamic freshness gives contrasting lift to the hefty but fine-grained tannins, while the finish is super-bright and saline with a kick of raspberry. Superb." Decanter

"A traditional blend based on Nero d'Avola Perricone and from vines that only produce a few grams, a concentrate of intensity and history. On the nose, cherries in alcohol, mentholated notes and Mediterranean scrub. On the palate, it is dense and tight, with a fruity, mentholated finish." Luca Gardini

"Elegant, bright ruby red colour with a delicately brightening rim. Exciting and inviting nose of ripe raspberries, wild strawberries, a hint of elderberries, then mint and sage, delicate hints of iron. Compact on the palate with tightly woven, savoury tannins, excellent length, slightly resinous and fruity undertone, rich in finesse and long." Falstaff

The name Poggio al Granchio comes from the small pond in the centre of the vineyard, which is located under an imposing holm oak tree and is home to a number of freshwater crayfish that have landed with energy. It is the area with the highest vineyards on the hill of Montalcino. It is a vineyard that receives the morning sun and is exposed to the strong climatic influence of Monte Amiata (former volcano and sacred mountain of the Etruscans), which rises opposite. This area of Montalcino has rich Galestro soils, which are particularly good for Brunello. On Galestro, the Sangiovese becomes mineral and savoury, with silky tannins; on the nose it has notes of ripe undergrowth fruit combined with that unmistakable hint of flint that you can smell directly on the slate. On the palate, the wine has a subtle, elegant but assertive entry and proves to be flavoursome and mineral. The Brunello here is dark in colour and has great ageing potential.

Intense ruby red colour with violet hues. Powerful and spicy bouquet of fresh cherries, redcurrants, blackberries, aniseed and myrtle. On the palate, it has an unmistakably subtle Sangiovese typicity, the wonderfully varied primary flavours are flanked by long, silky tannins. It has a very flavoursome and mineral finish that only this region can give Sangiovese. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny ruby red with a sparkling centre. Cool nose of citrus, elderberries, reminiscent of cold butter, herbs and graphite. On the palate with grippy, youthful tannins, red fruit and good freshness, medium weight, still a little rough at the back." Falstaff

"A shade deeper than the Vigna del Lago and with orange-coloured reflections. It is also a little richer and riper, with plenty of deep plum fruit and spicy notes of black pepper. The tangy cherry fruit is lined with sandy tannins. Great balance and length." Jancis Robinson

"Pretty cherries and chocolate with some violets, leading to a medium body with fine tannins and an orange peel finish. Refined and beautiful." James Suckling

"Poggio al Granchio, which stretches south-east towards Monte Amiata, lies at an altitude of 450 metres on slate-rich Galestro soil. The area is characterised by warm days and cool nights, resulting in firmly structured wines. The 2019 is a virile wine that opens with smoky ash, incense and iron. On the palate, it shows blackberries and blackcurrants, coated in dusty, dry, stony earth. Pungent, gravelly tannins sprinkle the mouth, while the acidity provides a tangy bite. It gradually finishes with a rust-like aura." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino Poggio al Granchio 2019 draws the taster close to the glass to take in its beguiling aromas. Aromas of roses and cloves give way to cinnamon-dusted redcurrants and a hint of camphor. An elegant style with a silky texture and ripe, rich wild berries balanced by lively acidity. Salty minerals colour the palate as the 2019 finishes long and structured. It holds its power in reserve, while a pleasantly bitter note mingles with fine-grained tannins to create a youthfully exciting sensation. This is a Poggio al Granchio for the ages. Bury your bottles deep." Vinous

"A deep well of blackberry, blackcurrant and cherry fruit characterises this juicy red wine, with accents of wild rosemary and minerals. Well-structured and complex, with a long finish that reflects the fruit and savoury notes. Excellent balance and harmony." Wine Spectator

"This wine, one of the best, smells of redcurrants, a hint of rosemary and star anise, with a hint of ginger. Beautiful finish." Luca Gardini

The Biancosesto is a true Friulian made from equal parts of the local Ribolla Gialla and Friulano grape varieties. Fresh, citrus-fruity aroma with hints of apple and pear, accompanied by a full-bodied, harmonious and pleasantly dry flavour. A refined interpretation of down-to-earthness with a beautiful arc of tension. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright olive green with straw yellow colour. Juicy citrus fruit on the nose, elderberry, juicy pink peach, rose petal, grapefruit, pomegranate, inviting. Fresh, juicy, clear on the palate, with well-defined fruit, full of tension and accessible, pure drinking pleasure." Falstaff

"Perfumed, elegant nose with citrus blossom and menthol, rich on the palate with candied fruit." Decanter

"This bright white features juicy pineapple, passion fruit and lychee notes accented by hints of grated ginger, ground cardamom, vanilla and white blossoms. Well-knit and lightly chalky in texture, with a focused, mineral-driven finish." Wine Spectator

"I like the undertones of crushed stone in the grapefruit and gooseberry flavours. It's bright, creamy and citrusy, with a medium body and a lively, zesty finish." James Suckling

"The Tunella 2022 Friuli Colli Orientali Biancosesto emphasises its modernist style with a very rich and creamy texture that comes from ageing in large Slavonian oak barrels. The blend consists of equal parts Friulano and Ribolla Gialla, and the fruit benefits from marl and sandstone soils that develop freshness and sweet concentration. This wine is complex and rich with ripe fruit, apricots and pears. It is a 360-degree expression with an extra dose of opulence to finish." Wine Advocate