Falstaff

Passopisciaro's Contrada C is an exquisite red with a dark sensual fruit bouquet. Stylistically like a great Pinot Noir or Nebbiolo, of remarkable intensity on the palate until the lingering final. A muscular and weightless wine at the same time. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright shining cherry red with ruby. Small strawberries, redcurrants, juniper berries, slightly loamy, leather spice and black tea on the nose. Builds up lively, with nice pressure, finely woven tannin, very finesse, nevertheless gripping in the back, tactile mineral notes, finishes on a fine salty character." Falstaff

"Scarce medium ruby red. Peppery nose of red fruits, cherry, rhubarb and raspberry with a spicy undertone and hints of oak and tobacco leaf. Wonderful depth and concentration on the palate, with a layer of fine-grained tannins. Real intensity on the finish. A cool climate spirit, despite its 15% alcohol." Jancis Robinson

"The 2019 Contrada Chiappemacine (C) exudes a dark blend of black cherry and shaved cedar in a hint of ashy smoke. It is round and soothingly textured, with cooling acidity enlivening the mineral red berries and a hint of brown spice. The finish has a mentholated freshness, while the silty tannins linger, leaving the mouth wanting more. It will need minimal ageing to be at its best. The Chiappemacine site is at an altitude of 550 metres and consists of a thin layer of volcanic soils over a limestone bed." Vinous

"Fragrant spice and cedar notes waft from the glass of this graceful red wine, accentuating the finely knit flavours of pureed raspberry, rose and liquorice, matched by slightly chalky tannins that firm up the mineral finish." Wine Spectator

"The Vini Franchetti 2019 Contrada C shows a sweet side with wild cherry and raspberry. Those primary notes are framed by ashy volcanic notes, crushed stone and wildflower. You also get hints of grilled rosemary and dried lavender. Compared to the other single-vineyard wines in this series, Contrada C has a sweeter, slightly more accessible personality. But the tight tannins and streamlined fruit weight promise good aging potential." Wine Advocate

"Weightless, concentrated and delicious, with aromas of camphor, wild berries, rose and wet stone. The full-bodied palate offers crushed raspberries, wild strawberries, cinnamon and star anise before an almost salty finish. Supple tannins provide finesse and polished grip." Wine Enthusiast

The annual production of this boutique winery on Etna is just 9,000 bottles. At an altitude of 950 metres above sea level, the one and a half hectares of vines are divided into eight tiny plots and have been gradually bought up by the well-known Oenologist. The area is planted with Nerello Mascalese bush vines, which have been spared the phylloxera phylloxera and make their way through the lava-covered terraces.

The single vines, which are on average 80 to 100 years old, are cultivated in the traditional, low-bush Alberello style, to which the wine owes its name. Alberelli di Giodo is extremely elegant and flavoursome and represents the minerality and finesse typical of its volcanic growing region to a remarkable degree. SUPERIORE.DE

"From ancient bush trees in high vineyards: finely chiselled aromas of raspberries and blossoms, also balsamic facets; noble texture, the acidity and tannins wonderfully modelled, long, fresh and fruity and yet extremely elegant. Very successful." Vinum

"Bright, light ruby red colour. Intriguing nose, delicate fruity notes, reminiscent of raspberries and cherries, followed by dried herbs and a hint of black truffle. Lively and precise on the palate, starts with a lot of juice, firm tannin structure and dancing acidity, spicy final, good length." Falstaff

"Transparent ruby red colour. Rich and yet with plenty of pace. And some light animal notes." Jancis Robinson

"Cola, tobacco, cinnamon and baked cherries. Freshness and lift from the start, super fresh with a juicy succulence that is so inviting. A clean palate with a gentle flavour drive. Feels well crafted with finesse. Balanced with so much juicy goodness, lovely velvety tannins and sweet strawberry, raspberry and pomegranate fruit on the palate. It will also develop superbly with time in the glass. This wine certainly has power, depth and vigour. A wine to age." Decanter

"A medium-bodied, very dense and precise red wine with focused, firm tannins framing smooth layers of cranberry, blackberry, stone, slate and tobacco. Also a hint of dried fruit. Mineral and stony. The wine has the character of old vines, with plenty of bark and spice on the finish. Try it from 2024 onwards." James Suckling

"The 2020 Sicilia Nerello Mascalese from Carlo Ferrini opens with a beautiful ruby red colour and an elegant, slender appearance. The wine offers tart cherry fruit, cassis, blue flowers, iron ore and orange peel. These different layers come together with balanced intensity. This vintage shows tremendous elegance and tannins that melt slowly and persistently on the palate. This bottle offers a very authentic and classic expression of the Sicilian volcano." Wine Advocate

"It is a pure Nerello Mascalese, preceded by a measured maceration on the skins and then refined in tonneaux. It has notes of black cherry, a hint of rhubarb, a touch of marjoram and black peppercorns. Spicy on the palate, with a fruity, spicy finish and hints of undergrowth." Luca Gardini

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

The Fontalloro is a single-varietal Sangiovese that is matured for up to 20 months in new and two-year-old barriques.brilliant ruby colour with a light garnet rim, mineral, woody-fruity aroma of cherry, cedar, blueberry and hazelnut. With aeration, the flavours become increasingly complex and the terroir influence very clear. Compact and very present on the palate with fine-grained tannins and classic proportions. Very high ageing potential and one of the best Sangiovese in central Tuscany every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a delicately brightening rim. On the nose, initially fresh yeast pastries, then juicy cherries, watermelon and redcurrants, minimal alcoholic aftertaste, precious wood. Taut tannins and beautiful acidity on the palate, savoury, then becomes a little more expansive on the finish, albeit juicy." Falstaff

"The Fontalloro 2020 is a sensual, enveloping wine. Dark red fruits, sweet spices, tobacco, cedar and mint are all beautifully pronounced. Fontalloro is a pure Sangiovese from vineyards located between the Chianti Classico and Colli Senesi appellations. The duality is very evident here." Vinous

"Very refined and complex nose with hints of pine cones, botanicals and dark mushrooms to savoury oranges, minerals, fine musk and plums. Juicy, dry but structured on the palate with stacks of dusty tannins developing on the savoury, full-bodied palate. Long and quite mineral on the finish. Better from 2025." James Suckling

"A vibrant red with fleeting aromas of lavender and wild rosemary mingling with flavours of cherry, orange peel, earth, minerals and tobacco. Despite its youthful vigour, it is elegant, with excellent harmony, refined tannins and a long, complex aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Intriguing entry with notes of ripe stone fruit, red berries, sandalwood, undergrowth and fine spice; with aeration a lot of fullness and also pressure, without missing the charm, the tannins fine-grained, the finish very long and with maturity potential." Vinum

"The 2020 Fontalloro, made from a special selection of Sangiovese, is generous and rich, the wine has a medium-dark colour and is concentrated. The winemaking team has succeeded in giving this vintage a particularly elegant side. The wine offers pronounced notes of cherry and wild plum with delicate spice in the background. As with the other wines in this portfolio, there is a beautiful mineral note that runs like a common thread through all of these new releases." Wine Advocate

"100% Sangiovese from two parcels located between Chianti Classico and Chianti Colli Senesi. A wine that shows hints of black cherry, rhubarb and juniper on the nose, with notes of eucalyptus and wild mint. The sip is taut, with spicy tannins. The finish is deep, the aftertaste fruity and balsamic." 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 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

Ruby red with violet reflections. Intense notes of sour cherry, wild berries, chocolate, undergrowth and coffee on the nose. Velvety, structured, full and rich on the palate with dark spices, candied cherries and cocoa, finishing juicy and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep dark, rich ruby red colour. Smells of mint, milk chocolate and rich Amarena cherries on the nose, with some earthy tones, elegant and inviting. Great juiciness and acidity on the palate, pronounced, fresh fruit and a tense final with young tannins." Falstaff

Neris Edel-Rosso was born with the purchase of a very special vineyard. True to the winery's philosophy of only producing wines from the best terroirs around Montalcino, the small 7-hectare plot with over 45 years of vines was finally acquired in 2018. This was preceded by over 40 years of friendship with the previous owners, with whom Giovanni Neri planted the vines and nurtured and cared for them over the past decades. Incidentally, the best grapes from this vineyard have been used for a small quantity of the Brunello di Montalcino of the same name since the 2018 vintage.

Fine aroma of strawberries, herbs and young leather. Taut and lively on the palate, the Sangiovese fruit is very precisely nuanced, flanked by powerful but by no means aggressive tannins. Long and round on the palate, with remarkable freshness and cheerfulness. Will continue to improve over the next few years with further bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red with violet shimmer. Elegant, elegant nose. Lots of ripe fruit, blueberry and cherry, subtle herbal spice. Dense and harmonious on the palate, with more spicy notes, reminiscent of black pepper and juniper, perfectly integrated acidity and fully ripe tannins, pleasantly warming, lingers for a long time." Falstaff

"The 2021 Rosso di Montalcino Giovanni Neri is punchy and bright with a vinous quality that underlines the wine's freshness and its youthful character. The bouquet is extremely clean and transparent, and you can peer through the red cherry fruit and raspberry to crushed stone and chalky dryness. It shows a beautiful color in the glass that matches the aromatic clarity offered to the nose." Wine Advocate

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

Medium yellow-green, intense floral and gooseberry aromas on the nose, fresh grapefruit, lime zest and basil. Full-bodied on the palate, elegant texture, fine acidity, mineral, racy and very drinkable. A Sauvignon with great varietal character. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright straw yellow with green notes. A little restrained on the nose, aniseed and sage, then some gooseberry. Blossoms beautifully on the palate, rich grapefruit, savoury and with good tension." Falstaff

"A simple, fresh and tangy sauvignon blanc with a subtle gooseberry and green kiwi character. Elegant and fresh, with some green stone fruit on a pithy finish." James Suckling

The Fontalloro is a single-varietal Sangiovese that is matured for up to 20 months in new and two-year-old barriques.brilliant ruby colour with a light garnet rim, mineral, woody-fruity aroma of cherry, cedar, blueberry and hazelnut. With aeration, the flavours become increasingly complex and the terroir influence very clear. Compact and very present on the palate with fine-grained tannins and classic proportions. Very high ageing potential and one of the best Sangiovese in central Tuscany every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Noble shimmering ruby red colour. Fresh nose of crisp blueberries and cherries, with notes of precious wood and hints of lilac. Clear and firm on the palate with tightly woven tannins, powerful and juicy with considerable length on the finish." Falstaff

"Aromas of raspberries, herbs and tobacco open the round dance, with floral components and then a little orange zest; the attack is full of character, but also with a lot of polish and excellent, long-lasting tannins; the finish is fruity and noble. Anyone who appreciates suppleness and independent personality will love this wine." Vinum

"It's smoky, with a core of cherry, blackberry and plum flavours. Menthol, wild herbs and iron add accents, and though it's supple, there's a solid structure of bright acidity and moderate, dusty tannins, with fine balance and length." Wine Spectator

"Bright and fresh with a lovely energy. Flavours of orange peel, chocolate, cherries and cedar follow through to a medium body, firm tannins and crisp acidity with a crisp finish. Will age well but is already delicious now." James Suckling

"The Fontalloro 2021 is great. This is a classic Fontalloro, a wine that combines remarkable density with the wilder personality of Sangiovese - partly from the Colli Senesi. As such, it is a somewhat rustic wine, but it is a wine that will be a good dinner companion. Leather, incense, tobacco and scorched earth complement a wine that shows the darker, wilder side of the variety. With air, pretty floral notes unfold. I would cellar this wine for a few years." Vinous

"The nose offers classic, delicate aromas of cherries, wild strawberries, blood oranges, top soil and sage. On the palate, darker berries and even more cherries contrast with an earthy, bitter bite of citrus, while supple acidity flows past unifying tannins that are precise but with a chalky tenacity." Wine Enthusiast

"The Fontalloro 2021 reveals an elegant bouquet with a streamlined character that offers good intensity but is never excessive. The Sangiovese carries this lean style well, delivering plenty of nuances of wild cherries and wild berries. There are also gentle mineral tones and earthy orris roots. This bottle should develop well with time in the cellar." Wine Advocate

From the expert hand of master distiller Giovi comes this truly unique grappa. Grappasessanta is produced according to the classic discontinuous method, the distillate then undergoes a one-year maturation in small barrels. The result is a powerful, complex and at the same time soft grappa. SUPERIORE.DE

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

Since Guidalberto has been vinified from its own grapes, most of which also grow in the Sassicaia DOC monopoly position, San Guido's "second wine" has grown beyond itself. Spicy, earthy bouquet with hints of tobacco, clove and lavender, dense and juicy on the palate with fresh red and black berry fruit. The tannins are well balanced and the finish is complex with a majestic elegance that will become even more refined with years of ageing in the bottle. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Guidalberto is made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot and has its own vines, some of which are inside and some outside the Sassicaia DOC. A very subtle wine with ripe, charming fruit and a velvety texture. It is more elegant and refined than before." Weinwisser

"Gently shining ruby red colour. Multi-layered bouquet, opens on ripe wild berries, redcurrant, notes of juniper, cedar and black pepper, a touch of lilac. Silky attack, precise fruit on very well-integrated, fine tannins, elegant and with gentle pressure in the long final." Falstaff

"The 2022 is full of aromas of herbs and sea breeze amid bright, tangy berries. In the mouth, it is savoury and precise, with a juiciness to the concentrated core of plums and black berries and a gracefulness to the tannin and acidity structures that weave through it. Juicy and incredibly flavoursome, with a wonderfully ripe red berry finish, this wine really stands on its own two feet." Decanter

"Lots of mint with sage and fresh rosemary to go with the redcurrants and oranges on the nose, as well as some ripe raspberries. The palate is very refined with creamy and crisp tannins that run the length of the wine. It shows a crisp and energetic personality. It should be given another year or two to develop, but it is already very good for the vintage." James Suckling

"The Guidalberto 2022 gives you a good taste of the same DNA that gives us one of Italy's greatest wines, Sassicaia, but it is offered here in a more immediate style. This warm vintage opens with a medium-dark concentration and very powerful aromas that immediately remind you of blackberries and blackcurrants lying in the sun at the farmers' market. The wine shows a soft and gentle side with a nice level of elegance conveyed by the freshness of the fruit and the slight oak spice that is noticeable here, but with grace." Wine Advocate

"This red wine is elegant, despite its firm structure and dense tannins. The flavours of black cherry, blackcurrant, plum, tobacco, iron and rosemary hold court, with all components balanced. The finish is long, with a salty flavour." Wine Spectator

Every year, one of the Tenuta's great single-vineyard wines, which represents the special terroir of the Etna hills in a highly complex way. Dark red fruit, orange peel and flowers on the nose. Then juicy fruit, wonderful depth and a finely chiselled tannin structure. A subtle spiciness on the finish and the outstanding structure, length and elegance are always present! SUPERIORE.DE

"Ruby red colour. Elegant, perfumed and lively nose of fresh red flowers and ripe red fruits. Closes with spicy notes of pepper and graphite minerals. Structured, fresh and lean on the palate. Mineral note on the finish, persistent." Falstaff

"The Calderara Sottana 2020 is youthfully shy in the glass, with hints of sweet violets, blackberries and crushed stone. Inside, it is a model of purity, silky and enveloping, with elegant red and black fruits swirling over a core of savoury minerals and exotic spices. The 2020 finishes long and colourful, with fine-grained tannins that pinch the palate. Notes of red plums and cinnamon ring through. It is a very Burgundian vintage of Calderara Sottana." Vinous

"The Tenuta delle Terre Nere 2020 Etna Rosso Calderara Sottana has a spicy, almost autumnal personality with tobacco, damp moss, spices and dark fruit. It stands out from the other wines in the portfolio thanks to these darker fruit qualities. Marc De Grazia uses the unusual word "feline" to describe the long and supple mouthfeel. I notice the dry, silky nature of the elegant tannins." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of rust, sea urchin, wild thyme, salted plums, Seville oranges, walnuts and asphalt. Very fine, grainy tannins. Intense rusty and mineral notes, medium-bodied and elegant on the palate. Long and flavoursome." James Suckling

The star from Tenuta Sant'Antonio: A rich dark ruby red, its bouquet of wild fruits, black pepper, tobacco and spices is a delight for the nose. Fruity and full-bodied, yet velvety and very sophisticated in its character - an austere, characterful and elegant Amarone, whose terrificfinish is accompanied by noble tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"It has distinct aromas of chocolate wheat and spiced plum crumble. Tart black fruits and balsamic freshness lurk in the mouth with streaks of tangy red fruits and dusty spices, supported by fine, grainy tannins. It's sweet and juicy and shows some chalky tautness on the palate, giving this big wine a desirable finesse." Decanter

"Ruby red with a tendency towards violet. The nose reveals clear notes of sour cherry, cherry, plum, blood orange and undergrowth, followed by floral notes of rose and violet. Gradually, spicy notes unfold. Full, juicy and fruity on the palate, with splendid tannins, finishing delicately bitter on the long finish." Falstaff

"The Tenuta Sant'Antonio Famiglia Castagnedi 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Campo dei Gigli reveals a very savory character with dried fruit, lots of plum and spicy back notes that transition to tarry smoke and barbecue. The wine is full-bodied and slightly evolved due to the hot vintage conditions." Wine Advocate

"Thick and rather syrupy dried black fruits face a wall of black pepper and toasted oak on the nose, which turns to liquorice on the palate. Any subtler, more complex character waits for now for the youthful fruit and oak to clear the main stage. And that can take some time. Nevertheless, this wine is already very pleasant to drink and will give pleasure for many years to come." James Suckling

"The 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Campo dei Gigli is intense, like opening an ash stone to discover a wealth of dried black cherries, cinnamon sticks, incense and dried herbs. The texture is deep, with a balanced inner sweetness highlighted by vibrant acidity, while the depths of tart red fruits slowly saturate the palate with primary concentration. The 2017 finishes structured and dramatically long, making a case for further cellaring." Vinous

Deep Merlot Riserva with a multi-layered bouquet reminiscent of dried fruit, wild raspberries, blackberries and tobacco. Very dense fruit on the palate, powerful body and polished tannins. This wine impressively demonstrates what Merlot can achieve in South Tyrol! So much depth and power in the very long finish. Good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Gently shining ruby red with a fine rim. Spicy and with savoury fruit on the nose of very ripe plum and sweet cherry, plus saddle leather and tobacco leaf. Polished on the palate, generous in the fruit, with liquorice, inviting and with a very long finish." Falstaff

"Spicy aromas of green olives, dried dill and smoke give way to a lovely palette of black cream cherries, dried raspberries, star anise and mineral notes on the palate of this fresh, well-structured red wine with medium body, fine-grained tannins and good length." Wine Spectator

"The Merlot Riserva Gant 2021 bursts from the glass with vibrant wild blueberries complemented by sweet spices and grated sage. It is soft and enveloping with an abundance of ripe red and blue fruits that stain the palate. Tactile mineral tones add a crisp feel towards the finish. The 2021 cleanses beautifully through the long and lightly textured final, leaving crisp tannins and an aftertaste of wild berries." Vinous

"A rich and inviting bouquet of red and dark berries, sweet spices, walnuts and dried flowers. Medium to full-bodied, supple and polished, with juicy fruit in the centre and ripe, fine-grained tannins. Bright and juicy finish." James Suckling

Ceretto's entry-level Barbaresco comes from different sites, mostly younger vines from Asili (35%) and the lower part of Bernadot (65%). Bright, elegant ruby red. It has full energy and vivacity and offers excellent persistence and remarkable balance. On the nose, sweet red cherry, mint, pine, liquorice and candied orange peel. Taut and ferruginous on the palate, very juicy, salty, stretches precisely across the tongue, with some pressure, considerable juicy-long finish. After good aeration already impressively accessible when young. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright garnet red with ruby reflections. Intense nose of sour cherry and rosehip, then some leather, tobacco and forest floor, complex. On the palate filigree mouth entry, with soft tannin, harmonious and well balanced, elegant, juicy finish." Falstaff

"This has aromas of oak and toasted nut that come to the forefront while berry and spice stay in the background. Tightly wound and primary, the palate offers raspberry jam, vanilla and licorice alongside close-grained tannins that grip the close. Fresh acidity keeps it bright." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2019 Barbaresco is bright and nicely focused. Crushed red berry fruit, cedar, tobacco and spice are lifted. Veins of supporting tannin and acid give this mid-weight, nervy Barbaresco lovely energy. The 2019 is elegant and also quite promising." Vinous

"The 2019 Barbaresco displays high-toned aromas of sweet raspberries, rose petals and liquorice that anticipates an open-knit palate with clear-cut flavours of crunchy raspberries and redcurrants. Ripe acidity and well-extracted tannins extend the attractively floral and balsamic finish." Decanter

"This is a very firm young Barbaresco with dried strawberry, crunchy fruit and fresh flowers, such as roses. Bitter lemon and tar, too. Full-bodied, chewy and polished. Flavorful finish." James Suckling

"The Ceretto 2019 Barbaresco is an organic wine that paints a clear picture of a beautiful vintage. Tart cherry, white licorice and dusty earth lift from the bouquet and give this wine a sharp sense of focus and intensity. Ceretto has released a superb set of Barbarescos this year, starting with this classic expression." Wine Advocate

The annual production of this boutique winery on Etna is just 9,000 bottles. At an altitude of 950 metres above sea level, the one and a half hectares of vines are divided into eight tiny plots and have been gradually bought up by the well-known Oenologist. The area is planted with Nerello Mascalese bush vines, which have been spared the phylloxera phylloxera and make their way through the lava-covered terraces.

The single vines, which are on average 80 to 100 years old, are cultivated in the traditional, low-bush Alberello style, to which the wine owes its name. Alberelli di Giodo is extremely elegant and flavoursome and represents the minerality and finesse typical of its volcanic growing region to a remarkable degree. SUPERIORE.DE

"The grapes for the red wine grow outside the DOC at over 950 metres above sea level and are planted with 80 to 100-year-old Nerello Mascalese bush vines. Wonderful, Burgundian-like nose with red berries, the finest cherries as well as subtle florality and smoky spice. On the palate, it has an elegant structure with a mineral and earthy centre, supported by fine acidity and fine, juicy, ripe tannins." Weinwisser

"Medium, bright ruby red colour with a slightly brightening rim. Lots of herbs and some fruit on the nose, thyme, dried oregano and some lemon balm, juicy raspberries and redcurrants. Very animating on the palate, straightforward and with a fine fruit core, appealing length and fine-grained tannins." Falstaff

"Aromas of plum, iron and pumice with some flowers. It is medium-bodied with powdery, fine tannins. It is complex and elegant, yet very structured. Very long and concentrated. Wild finish with an undertone of lava. Directly above the Contrada di Rapante. Drinkable, but better in two or three years." James Suckling

Neris Edel-Rosso was born with the purchase of a very special vineyard. True to the winery's philosophy of only producing wines from the best terroirs around Montalcino, the small 7-hectare plot with over 45-year-old vines was acquired in 2018. This was preceded by over 40 years of friendship with the previous owners, with whom Giovanni Neri planted the vines and nurtured and cared for them over the past decades. Incidentally, the best grapes from this vineyard have been used for a small quantity of the Brunello di Montalcino of the same name since the 2018 vintage.

Fine aroma of strawberries, herbs and young leather. Taut and lively on the palate, the Sangiovese fruit is very precisely nuanced, flanked by powerful but by no means aggressive tannins. Long and round on the palate, with remarkable freshness and cheerfulness. Will continue to improve over the next few years with further bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Great, expressive nose, rich berry fruit, clear, shows great spicy notes, reminiscent of milk chocolate in the aftertaste. Juicy, compact on the palate with savoury, gripping tannins and clear fruit, slightly salty on the finish." Falstaff

"Quite a primary, fruit-conscious Rosso di Montalcino that shows color and vibrancy. Spiced plums, dark earth, black cherries and touches of blue fruit and minerals. Ripe, tight and juicy, with some chewy, vertical tannins and a long finish. A modern Rosso." James Suckling

"The 2022 Rosso di Montalcino Giovanni Neri is marvellous. Perfumed and fruit-driven, it impresses with a bouquet of violets, roses, spiced citrus fruits and sage. It is juicy to the core. Tactile mineral tones emphasise a pure blend of cherries and strawberries. The 2022 finishes with tremendous length and concentration, more like a Brunello than a Rosso, with fine-grained tannins humming under a hint of sweet lavender." Vinous

Firraru is Feudo Maccari's latest big hit: an enchantingly cool Grillo in a small batch from black soils characterised by limestone, clay skeleton and an iron-rich matrix. Crystal clear yellow with golden reflections. Complex aroma of citrus fruits, fine flavours of vanilla and roasted cinnamon. Fresh and perfectly structured on the palate, with a fine tannin structure and an enveloping, very long flavour. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright straw yellow with golden reflections. Very complex bouquet of yellow apple, apricot, pineapple and mango on the nose, accompanied by jasmine blossom and some almonds. Great entry on the palate with a delicate mellowness, lots of juiciness and harmonious freshness, very fruity in the long final." Falstaff

"Intense toastiness on the nose, with apricot, peach and a mix of candied fruit. Leasy palate with a smooth, rich texture and a long, toasted aftertaste. All balanced by zesty acidity. Ambitious wine." James Suckling