Falstaff

Poggio di Sotto's Brunello 2019 is a true masterpiece. Bright, sparkling garnet red in colour. The multi-layered, seductive bouquet alternates cherry, autumnal spice, exotic flowers, candied orange peel with undergrowth, white smoke and wild small berries. Masterfully interwoven on the palate, with a softness and purity that, together with notes of sweet cherries and raspberries, delivers a firework of impressions. Add to this grippy tannins and an agile acidity and you have a prime example of Montalcino. It is already classic and modern at the same time, and we can only eagerly await its further development! SUPERIORE.DE

"Needs a little aeration, then beguiles with aromas of wild berries, flowers and spices, well cushioned in the mouth by tightly woven tannins and invigorating acidity, full of elegance on the final. A classic." Vinum

"Oh my, that's another seductive, elegant fragrance: ripe heart cherries and raspberries, engaging, distinctive floral notes reminiscent of violets and lavender, backed by earthy herbal spice with juicy liquorice and a touch of blood orange. Wow, this is complex. Elegant, fine-meshed style on the palate, great tension from transparent, precise fruit and balsamic, melting freshness. Once again one of the best. Bravo!" Weinwisser

"Bright ruby garnet colour. Rich cherry fruit on the nose, a hint of rosemary, plus fine hints of graphite and blood orange. Great juiciness on the palate, lots of red berry fruit, beautiful salinity, grippy tannins in many layers, builds beautifully, classic, still very young." Falstaff

"Medium ruby red colour. Very restrained nose with just a hint of minerals. Elegant palate that is still firmly closed, yet supple and finely balanced with grainy but fine tannins. Very long, concentrated and exciting." Jancis Robinson

"This elegant red wine shows a combination of strawberry, cherry, rose and wild herb flavours, a firm underlying structure and excellent harmony in a stylish profile. Just a little shy on the chalky finish." Wine Spectator

"Sweet cherry and floral aromas with some orange peel and lilac character. Medium body with beautiful depth and concentration. Ripe, fine tannins and an attractive finish. Subtle richness and class. Give this wine three or four years to develop." James Suckling

"Dusty roses, worn leather, dried strawberries and dry earth form a classic bouquet when the dynamic 2019 Brunello di Montalcino blossoms in the glass. It is feminine, deep and structured, with ripe plums and black cherries supported by lively acidity. Purple flowers and hints of liquorice emerge towards the end. The 2019 leaves a salty minerality intermingled with fine-grained tannins and spice, while finishing with incredible length and yet so fresh. This wine is incredibly youthful and introverted today, but it has enormous potential. I expect the 2019 to gain weight and blossom over the next five to ten years. Glorious." Vinous

"Despite heavy rain, there was very little disease in 2019 and the hot summer brought the grapes to full ripeness. The subdued cherry aromas reflect the wine's youth, though they became more expressive with aeration. The palate is rich but sleek in texture, with polished tannins and fine acidic lift. The texture is grainy without being tough, and there's so much energy and grip here that the wine clearly has great ageing potential. Very long, with a lightly peppery finish. A majestic end to the decade." Decanter

"The jewel of Collemassari Wine Estates in an impeccable version of Brunello. On the nose, notes of redcurrant jam, a hint of liquorice, myrtle and a touch of wild sage. Crisp, dense mouthfeel, saline, iodised tannins, closing with a return of small fruit notes and myrtle." Luca Gardini

"Although this wine started out very shy, the Poggio di Sotto 2019 Brunello di Montalcino finally hits all the high notes of Sangiovese. It is a wine with enormous inner tension, displaying a powerful, lifted personality with aromas of cherries and blackberries. There are also flavours of roasted cherries, glazed strawberry cake with gelatine, undergrowth, blue flowers, forget-me-nots, balsam herbs, mint and liquorice. A few hours later, the wine has developed into a classic beauty with slender lines, firm structure and sparkling, brilliant acidity. The oak is so well integrated that you can't see it, the tannins are elegant and fine, and the acidity is the proverbial cherry on top." Wine Advocate

Querciabella's Riserva, with an annual production of 10,000 bottles, is a selection of the best lots. It blends fruit from Greve, where the vineyards lie between 350 and 550 metres above sea level, with grapes from the stony high altitudes of Radda and the chalky soils of Gaiole. The 2019 vintage is restrained but very precise. Tantalising aromas of spring flowers, cranberries and potting soil are accompanied by vanilla and smoke. On the palate, it is polished and pure, with a delicious, tangy acidity and sinewy tannins. As every year, one of the most refined wines of the appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Here, too, with the typical house style that emphasises the charm, in addition to the aromas of cherry, rowan berries and rosehip, animating, velvety and round on the palate." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby red colour. Nose of pomegranate, fresh strawberries, some blood orange, thyme, stony hints. Great freshness on the palate, lovely acidity, clear, red berry fruit, savoury, vibrates over the tongue, drinky." Falstaff

"Deep, shiny ruby red colour. Captivating, deep sour cherry and raspberry nose that is still quite youthful. Beautiful intensity of fruit and with a hint of oak. Pleasant, tangy, deep raspberry fruit with marvellous, chewy tannins that cling to the fruit. Designed for the long term. Amazing balance between gripping, ripe tannins and deep, tangy fruit." Jancis Robinson

"The Chianti Classico Riserva 2019 is a great wine that comes from vineyards in Greve, Radda and Gaiole. Dark and powerful in the glass, the 2019 offers dark fruit, spice, leather, savoury herbs, tobacco and earthy notes. I would give it a few years to mature." Vinous

"The Organic Querciabella 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva Querciabella displays rich, concentrated fruit with blackberries and cherries overlaid with light spice and minerality. This wine represents a selection of fruit from Greve, Radda and Gaiole in Chianti, and each parcel is vinified separately before the final blend is made." Wine Advocate

"At first, coffee and mocha permeate the dark red cherry, while hints of rosemary and sage emerge with a little coaxing. The palate is confident yet agile, with beautiful, pure black raspberry fruit ringing out. Pleasant tannins expand leisurely, and the fine-grained framework will provide balanced support over the next 10 years." Decanter

"Smooth and intense, this red wine is saturated with aromas and flavours of black cherries, blackberries, flowers, wild herbs and minerals. On the long finish, the solid structure is well covered by flesh. It offers fine harmony and expression." Wine Spectator

"A fragrant and lively red wine with aromas of sour cherries, lemons, cloves, crushed pepper and dried flowers on the nose. Medium-bodied with silky tannins and bright acidity. Juicy and delicious with lots of energy." James Suckling

The grapes of Romirasco come from the single vineyard of the same name in the Bussia district. The vines stand at an altitude of about 400 m and are up to 55 years old. It is probably the spiciest representative in Aldo Conterno's overall programme. On the nose, fine notes of tar and smoke, plus cherry, elderberries and menthol. On the palate, notes of raspberry, redcurrant, rosemary and thyme immediately take over. The wine stands almost vertically in the glass, the different fruit and spice components marry in a most elegant way and make this wine monument one of the most irresistible representatives of the entire Barolo world every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Typical Bussia with balsamic notes and dark spice, very earthy and with plenty of fleshy tannin that stays present for a long time, defining presence and all around a powerhouse Barolo with lots of subtlety." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, rich ruby with a pronounced garnet rim. Very intense and dense nose of white truffle, fine spicy herbs, then lots of blackberry and leather. Round and supple in the attack and course, shows lots of fine-meshed, grippy tannin, builds up in many layers, some blood orange, plus dark raspberry, rich pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Though well-marked by new oak, there's a vibrant quality to this Barolo, along with cherry, raspberry, iron, tar and tobacco flavors. Supple, almost elegant, with a long, spicy aftertaste, this shows plenty of detail and energy." Wine Spectator

"Lots of floral aromas, such as lilacs and roses, with crushed raspberries and strawberries. Sandalwood, too. Full-bodied and very powerful with incredible depth of fruit and chewy tannins. It goes on for minutes. Try after 2026." James Suckling

Troy is no ordinary Chardonnay. Rather, it is the archetype of a Chardonnay, as Wolfgang Klotz, managing director of what is probably the most successful winegrowers' cooperative in South Tyrol, sees it. The grapes come from two selected vineyards in Söll, near Tramin. The climate there is not only Mediterranean, but the vegetation is also characterised by rather cold downdraughts at night. Both factors guarantee optimal development of the plants and fruit. The berries are hand-picked one by one, so it is clear to any wine connoisseur that this is an absolutely prestigious project for the co-operative. It is therefore not surprising that only 3,000 bottles of this grape variety are sold in selected specialist shops and top restaurants.

Intense straw to golden yellow in colour. On the nose, tropical fruit, a hint of camomile and mint, then fine roasted notes and a subtle nutty flavour. On the palate, you can almost taste the proximity of the mountains, its clarity, freshness and intensity: exotic notes of ripe yellow fruit, then some nutty flavours and again a beguiling liveliness and minerality that ends in an equally long final. Chardonnay can be like this, chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"A great classic with alpine character that comes from the oldest Chardonnay vines in the highest parcels of the Tramin winery. The interplay of warmth and coolness is already evident on the nose, with fresh pomaceous fruit, citrus and orange zest with a subtle smoky undercurrent. Grippy, relief-like texture on the palate, very fine grip, has depth, cool spice and stony-salty notes, focussed and long." Weinwisser

"Bright, sparkling light gold colour. The nose is full of banana, Kaiser Alexander pear, pineapple candy, after a little time a slight hint of almond flakes, cold butter and blood orange. Precise, rich on the palate, with fine phenolic flavours and a salty undertone, lingers in many layers, long." Falstaff

"Very promisingly reductive on the nose. Mineral notes reminiscent of chalk and graphite, delicate spice and fresh citrus fruit. Clear and pithy on the palate, with plenty of flavour. Animating!" Vinum

"Ripe peaches and mangoes with apple crumble, honeysuckle and cream. Full-bodied with a sophisticated texture. Creamy and delicate with fresh floral undertones and a hint of orange toffee on the finish." James Suckling

"An aromatic strand of graphite, lime blossom and spice winds its way through the glazed apple and apricot flavours of this lean, vibrant white wine, which shows a kind of audacious energy alongside a lovely balance. The fruit profile combines with notes of macadamia nuts, clementines, vanilla and stones that unfold on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The Chardonnay Riserva Troy matured in barriques reveals buttery oak notes with French almond biscuits and patisserie. Sweet dried apricots continue on the palate. Pleasingly, it has good lift and a dolomitic character. Crumbled quartz and other minerals are reminiscent of picturesque mountains and glaciers. Serve this wine well chilled. Its fruity sweetness turns into a savoury note over time." Wine Advocate

"Intense tropical melon, mango and papaya with pretty white flowers. Fleshy and lush with a creamy texture, enriching acidity and a long, mineral finish." Decanter

Valter Fissore bottles less than 4,000 bottles of this incredibly classic Barolo every year. Dark cherries, menthol, flowers and tar are just some of the classic notes in the complex bouquet of the Bricco Pernice from the Ravera single vineyard. On the palate, the austere structure and great power are joined by a fine inner sweetness. In the long finish, memories of damp earth, dried herbs and wild flowers. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium ruby red with orange. A pretty, lifted, complex bouquet with spicy, mineral top notes and minty oak notes. Needs a lot of air. Cranberry and raspberry with crisp tannins. A Barolo of the cool climate. Its character is closer to the excellent 2019 vintage than 2018. Great length and precision." Jancis Robinson

"Very attractive, perfumed nose with cherries and raspberries, hints of spiced cedar, walnut and damp earth. Medium to full-bodied with grainy tannins and chalky texture. Fresh red fruits with racy, citrusy notes on the finish. Taste it from 2026." James Suckling

"Perfumed, it exudes aromas of rose, cherry, raspberry, anise and menthol, with berry fruit persisting on the palate along with mineral and herbal flavours. Although expressive and balanced, it shows tannin and should develop well." Wine Spectator

"Bright, shiny ruby garnet with brightening rim. Great, inviting nose of fresh mint, blackberries, liquorice, then raspberries and candied rose petal. Very polished and with a creamy texture on the palate, tightly woven salty tannin wraps the clear fruit, subtle notes of blood orange, very elegant and long." Falstaff

"This wine shows just how elegant Nebbiolo is with aromas of wild raspberries and cherry preserves giving way to wild herbs, rosebuds and earth. The palate is lifted and dances with vigor and energy showing its core of fruit but with all elements in harmony and balance." Wine Enthusiast

Firmly anchored in La Morra, Elio Altare has been vinifying a Barolo in Serralunga d'Alba on a rented plot for a few years, vinified and bottled separately. A fascinating and powerful Nebbiolo with elegant fruit, truffle, leather and floral aromas. Full-bodied, juicy and long on the palate, with a remarkably elegant tannin structure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Mid to deep ruby with orange tinges. Amazing depth. There are hints of mint and cardamon and a suggestion of spice. Brooding and a little rich but without being sweet. Holds back on the palate, but at the same time is transparent and layered. Long, firm, polished tannins. Still not ready by far." Jancis Robinson

"This red wine offers a blend of plum, black cherry, leather, liquorice and spice aromas. Notes of dried fig and chocolate add an exotic touch, while it finishes fresh and invigorating, with fine balance and length." Wine Spectator

"Lots of spice with flowers. Bloody and iron undertones. Full and chewy with plenty of structure. Juicy and flavorful. Very structured with lots of tannins. Needs time to soften. Aged for two years in bottle. Muscular and unique. Drink after 2027." James Suckling

"The 2017 Barolo Riserva Cerretta Vigna Bricco is pliant and creamy, with all of the depth of Serralunga backing it up. Black cherry, plum and spice all build in a sumptuous, full-bodied Barolo that captures the best the vintage had to offer. Dark fruit, smoke, game, licorice and incense add layers of dimension as the 2017 starts to open in the glass. Let's see what happens here." Vinous

"The Elio Altare 2017 Barolo Riserva Cerretta Vigna Bricco is extremely generous and rich, owing to the very hot and dry growing season. This Riserva opens to rich black fruit, plum and blackcurrant. The fruit is framed by tarry smoke and spice. The wine is very firm and structured to the palate, with an ample, full-bodied style that concludes with a hint of velvety softness." Wine Advocate

"Dark shining, slightly cloudy ruby red. In the nose of ripe cranberries, black cherries, some plums, in addition fine noble wood, reminds in the reverberation discreetly of milk chocolate. On the palate with a noble balsamic tone, hearty, with ripe dark berry fruit, shows proper pressure, in the finish abundant and still young tannin." Falstaff

Camarcanda is a rich Bolgheri Rosso Superiore with a dark bouquet of black fruit, espresso, chocolate, liquorice and tar. The palate is extremely full-bodied, with outstanding depth, dense structure and a firm body. Opulent and long, this wine already shows a wide range of personality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Warm-scented aromas of black cherries, herbs, spiced up with liquorice and smoke; has a lot of pressure, but also a lot of polish, the tightly woven, grippy tannins and the supporting acidity guarantee a long life, finishes long on opulent fruit flavours." Vinum

"Elegant, bright ruby red colour. Intense nose with notes of cassis and blackberry, clear and concise, fine herbal spice in the background. On the palate with savoury juiciness and dark berry fruit, opens with grippy tannins in many layers, pithy, with lots of juicy fruit, firm pressure and notes of graphite on the final." Falstaff

"The 2021 is an impressive effort with fragrant aromas of dried cherries, sous bois and minty black fruits that continue on the palate with intensity and vibrancy. Hints of balsamic herbs, raspberries and floral notes are also evident. It is powerful and minty-fresh and a real eye-catcher." Decanter

"A tasty and juicy young red wine with flavours of currants, raspberries and boysenberries that develop into a medium to full body with creamy and polished tannins and a beautiful finish. It is fresh and concentrated." James Suckling

"The Ca' Marcanda 2021 Bolgheri Rosso Camarcanda is made with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc in a supporting role. This is a bold and beautifully concentrated wine with a brilliant character that is best described as Rubenesque. It exhibits a supple texture and deep richness supported by sweet fruit and raspberry flavours. The ripe, well-structured tannins give way to a sparkling freshness that gives it energy and life." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Camarcanda is a fabulous wine from the Gaja family, the best they have ever made from their estate in Bolgheri. Silky, aromatic and wonderfully pure, the 2021 Camarcanda is a superb, contemporary expression of Bolgheri with plenty of coastal sunshine and warmth, but not overdone. Silky tannins frame the exceptionally polished, nuanced finish. The 2021 is so seductive." Vinous

"Pure and elegant, with saturated flavours of violets, blackcurrants, blackberries, liquorice and iron. This wine is so beautifully balanced that even at this young stage it feels almost seamless, offering a lean profile and an endless aftertaste that mirrors the fruit. The oak is very well integrated, with polished tannins." Wine Spectator

Rich, concentrated Bordeaux-style red with the unmistakable signature of top oenological consultant Stéphane Derenoncourt. Multi-layered black fruit on the nose, plus rock, liquorice, camphor and graphite. Impressively supple on the palate, the fruit is always juicy and centred, wonderful and almost perfect in structure, polish, elegance and length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, noble ruby red colour. Compact nose of rich cherries, black truffle, some pepper, then again plenty of rich berry fruit in the aftertaste, blackberry and cassis. Densely woven on the palate, with a beautiful melting texture and powerful tannins, opens up in many layers, with sparse stony components, radiant and powerful, lingers for a long time, magnificent." Falstaff

"The fresh, inviting nose is like carpaccio with a caprese-inspired garnish of cherry tomatoes, basil and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. The palate continues blending sanguine and umami notes above a latent sweetness, creating a wine that deliciously coats the mouth and then lingers there." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2019 Giorgio Primo is a worth follow up to the stellar 2018. Dense, rich and explosive, the 2019 races across the palate with dark fruit, chocolate, leather, incense and spice. This sumptuous Cabernet Sauvignon-based Panzano red has a ton to offer. The oak is a bit prominent; otherwise, the 2019 is nicely done." Vinous

"Extremely complex aromas of crushed currants, spices and sandalwood with some bark. Violets, too! Full-bodied with creamy, polished tannins and great intensity. Layered and beautiful. Better in 2024, but already beautiful to try." James Suckling

"Vintner Giampaolo Motta's inspiration is the great wines of Bordeaux, and his vision has never changed despite many passing trends. But perhaps his most important choice as a winemaker (born outside of Tuscany) is his firm commitment to Panzano in Chianti as the ideal home for the French grapes he cultivates. This is an etched and polished wine with dark fruit, spice, graphite and pencil shavings. The tannins are beautifully managed, and the wine is long and complex." Wine Advocate

The small vineyard of Pietrabona on the island of Giglio, which is over 80 years old, yields an Ansonica of outstanding quality, and so Bibi Graetz decided to vinify the grapes separately in small batches. The vines stand on a bed of rocks and granite sand not 50 metres from the sea, and so a wine is produced that convinces with a subtle scent of ripe oranges, fine spiciness and minerality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, light golden yellow. Initially shows notes of flint and honeydew melon, then lots of camomile, slightly iodine-salty components in the background. Shows very good tension on the palate, nice play between salty components and ripe yellow fruit, spreads well, freshness and lots of pressure on the final." Falstaff

"The dried fruits of pineapple, apricot and cooked apple and peaches in the nose are very attractive. It’s full and dense with lots of fruit and a phenolic and structured texture. Feels more like a red than a white. Salty undertone. Tuscan in personality. Ansonica from a single vineyard on Giglio Island." James Suckling

Rose petals, mint, cinnamon, dark sweet cherries and smoke lift from the glass in a translucent, wiry Brunello that builds on energy, power and opulence. Here, length and fruit are in the foreground and, together with a clearly defined tannin structure, Leopoldo Franceschi's team has produced a wine here in a very classic vintage that will really reveal itself over the next few years. As always, it is one of our favourites, and its still outstanding value is also great fun! SUPERIORE.DE

"Wide-ranging bouquet with lots of cedar, ripe red and dark fruits, wild strawberries, cassis and red currants. Behind this, the wood barrel ageing also shows with fine cedar, cloves and dark spices as well as herbs. Rich, almost meaty and dense palate, not quite as dense as 2016, but immensely present freshness and dynamism, also the tannin network seems a bit leaner than usual and of best quality. Very persistent and long aftertaste with crunchy berries on the final." Weinwisser

"Firm, a touch animalic aroma of ripe mixed berries and a hint of plums with fleshy notes, tart nutty hints, pepper and ethereal herbal tones. Taut, tart, ripe, quite dense fruit, present, fine, youthful tannin and some acid bite, persistent, slightly herbaceous, tobacco and peppery, clearly salt in the background, lots of power but also freshness, perfectly vinified, very good, firm, tart finish." Wein-Plus

"Bright ruby red. Spicy-animalic nose, then ripe Amarena cherry and plum, walnut, undergrowth, shoe polish. On the palate equally earthy tones, wide-meshed tannin, plus dark fruit." Falstaff

"Shiny, deep ruby red. In the nose still quite closed with just a hint of Moroccan leather. On the palate pure cherry fruit flavours with lots of ripe acidity. Fantastic, compact, gravelly tannins that are a real tour de force in this vintage. A hedonistic whole that you can already approach but will improve with time." Jancis Robinson

"A smoky entry leads to leather and tobacco nuances that repeat on the palate. The 2018 is packed with flavours of cherries and baking spices. It feels medium-bodied but is very rich and its powerful bite contributes positively to the pleasing mouthfeel. It will get even better with another year in bottle." Decanter

"This is a flavourful, complex Brunello with aromas of fresh and sour cherries, plums, bay leaves, rosemary and olives. Also cloves and liquorice. It is medium to full-bodied with firm, fine-grained tannins. Supple and well integrated, with a long and deliciously spicy finish." James Suckling

"The Il Poggione 2018 Brunello di Montalcino shows a dark and spicy character with more fruit weight and concentration than can be found in many of its competitors. This wine shows a dense focus padded with dark cherry, blackberry, roasted spice, mahogany smoked meat and ploughed earth. Despite the powerful flavours, this Sangiovese is actually quite lean and polished in texture. The tannins are soft and easily accessible. The estate's Riserva Vigna Paganelli was not made in 2018, so the fruit from this wine came here instead." Wine Advocate

"The dense structure sets the pace for this red wine, with aromas of cherry, raspberry, mint and tar that are appealing and expressive. Rosehip, orange peel and earth are evident in the long, expansive aftertaste. It is designed to last a long time." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino impresses from the first swirl of the glass, with a heady burst of exotic spices and crushed ash giving way to dried black cherries and grilled herbs. It combines the energy of the vintage with the dark, balsamic fruits of Montalcino's southern foothills, while zesty acidity maintains balance and minerals saturate towards the finish. The finish is long, savoury and structured, but its tannins are rounder than expected, giving it a classic feel but also leaving a delicious sensation that tempts the taster to reach for the glass again and again. The 2018 is certainly one of the top wines of the vintage, not to be missed." Vinous

"One of the first wineries to deal in Brunello, one of the founding members of the Consortium. A Brunello characterised by freshness, pomegranate on the nose, hints of citrus thyme and white pepper. The palate has juicy tannins with a fruity return." Luca Gardini

The small, 80-year-old vineyard of Pietrabona on the island of Giglio produces an Ansonica of outstanding quality, and so Bibi Graetz decided to vinify the grapes separately in small batches. The vines stand on a bed of rocks and granite sand less than 50 metres from the sea, resulting in a wine with a subtle aroma of ripe oranges, fine spice, flint and minerality.

Even richer, with a somewhat more exotic flavour profile and corresponding complexity than the Testamatta Bianco. Its freshness, fullness and ability to perfectly convey acidity and minerality are strongly reminiscent of a Meursault. Great complexity on the palate, walnut and white almond, blood orange, peach and apricot, guava and quince, passion fruit and passion flower. So juicy and rich and yet ethereal in its freshness. The citrus-fruity acidity is more diffuse and therefore a little better integrated than in the Testamatta Bianco. Great! SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, sparkling golden yellow colour. Appealing nose with notes of bergamot and apricot, plus fine spicy components of oregano and rosemary. Full-bodied and dense in the attack and on the palate, rich apricot fruit, good pressure, with a final of salt and sea spray." Falstaff

"The 2023 Colore Bianco, made from the Ansonica grape from a special vineyard in the Pietrabuona Valley on this rustic Tuscan island, offers a pretty bouquet of peach, orange peel, sea salt and baked apple. The wine is soft and structured with mild acidity." Wine Advocate

"It's more floral and airy than the Testamatta - with aromas of Mediterranean herbs, apricot skin and some yeast - and in the mouth it's more savoury: olives, capers and herbs come to the fore. Vertical, salty and structured, it has a stony profile with more concentration than the Testamatta, and its subtle lemon zest and apple flavours in the mid-palate add complexity. Delicious." Decanter

"Orange blossom, orange peel, sliced oranges, sea salt and granite. Medium to full-bodied with lots of gorgeous fruit and wonderful character. Quite exotic and wild, with perfectly ripe fruit. The yeast was stirred three times a week. Slightly phenolic, with minerals and vegetal notes. Give this wine three to four years of bottle ageing to soften it." James Suckling

Bibi Graetz: "Monumental, there is no better word to characterise this vintage of roundness in every single aspect of the wine. Colore has elegance, freshness and an incredible acidity that is surprisingly noticeable on the nose and at the first sip."

From some of the oldest Sangiovese vineyards comes Colore every year, the maximum expression of Bibi Graetz' dream. The barren, sandy soils at high altitudes create the perfect terroir for a wine that can tell the true story of Tuscany and its inhabitants. The grapes for Colore were selected from vineyards in Lamole, Vincigliata and Siena. Each vineyard was harvested up to eight times in order to achieve the optimum ripening time for as many grapes as possible. Each parcel is matured separately in barriques for almost two years before the final blend is decided. Only the best Sangiovese barriques from each vintage become Colore. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, sparkling ruby colour. Intense nose with notes of raspberry, rhubarb, beetroot, plum and cherry jam. Firm tannins in the attack and on the palate, fine raspberry and cherry fruit, good tension, some cinnamon on the final, well-made, juicy." Falstaff

"Lustrous, healthy mid ruby. This clearly has eclipsed the variety and expresses origin. Chalky, minerally hints under ripe, concentrated raspberry with hints of garden herbs. Great focus and balance of fresh, ripe, supple raspberry, with firm, powdery tannins that are gripping the finish, for now." Jancis Robinson

"The 2020 Colore is a pleasant surprise and an absolute feminine beauty. When I expect power, it delivers grace with a stunning bouquet of freshly cut roses, blood orange, wild strawberries and sweet smoke. It's very structured but not heavy, instead feeling like crushed velvet that lays gently across the palate, leaving mineral blackberries and redcurrants in its wake. The finish is elegant with fine-grained tannins, without slowing down the momentum, while the spicy notes slowly fade away. The Colore is made exclusively from old (70 years or older) Sangiovese vines from the Lamole, Vincigliata, Olmo and Siena vineyards." Vinous

"The Bibi Graetz 2020 Colore is a pure expression of Sangiovese that comes from old vines carefully selected in different parts of Tuscany. The majority of the fruit comes from an elevated and cool site in Lamole or from 70-year-old vines in Bagno a Ripoli or Vincigliata near Fiesole. A small percentage of the old vines in Olmo is also used. Bibi has a preference for old vines, and you can taste the beautiful depth and complexity expressed in the Colore. Compared to his other wine, Testamatta, this wine has undergone fewer stylistic changes over the years and the aim has always been elegance and finesse. The Colore has a beautiful luminosity with flavours of dark fruit and wild berries. There is also a hint of liquorice and mint. Mineral flavours and bright acidity characterise the Colore." Wine Advocate

"The subtlety and fragrance of this wine are enchanting, offering flowers, orange peel and cherries. Also wonderful ripe strawberries. Full-bodied but not over the top, with polished tannins that run the length of the wine. It's dense, but shows all the signs of a great wine. You want to drink it now, and you probably should, because it's so seductive. But it will also age beautifully." James Suckling

From some of the oldest Sangiovese vineyards comes Colore every year, the maximum expression of Bibi Graetz' dream. The barren, sandy soils at high altitudes create the perfect terroir for a wine that can tell the true story of Tuscany and its inhabitants. The grapes for Colore were selected from vineyards in Lamole, Vincigliata and Siena. Each vineyard was harvested up to eight times in order to achieve the optimum ripening time for as many grapes as possible. Each parcel is matured separately in barriques for almost two years before the final blend is decided. Only the best Sangiovese barriques from each vintage become Colore.

Spicier and more intensely floral than Testamatta - as if we had moved from the fresh flowers to the perfumer's laboratory, but still with plenty of vibrant fresh rose petals. This wine is bloodier, fleshier and richer than the Testamatta Rosso with an iron note in the minerality. Generous on the palate, but also with delicacy and finesse, crushed berries and notes of candle wax. Intense due to the narrow frame, which reinforces the feeling of compactness and density. Clear, bright and with an intense flavour on the sharp finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, very dense ruby colour. Very fine and inviting nose, classic Sangiovese fruit of dark cherry, then fine tobacco, plus blackberry and roses. Firm, gripping tannins on the palate, savoury and with good tension, has substance and depth, with pronounced earthy notes on the final." Falstaff

"The Bibi Graetz 2022 Colore only draws its fruit from two sites in this vintage: from 60-year-old vines in the Olmo vineyard (at an altitude of over 400 metres) and 88-year-old vines in Lamole (Chianti Classico). The vines are mostly south-facing, but the altitude is decisive. Testamatta, on the other hand, comes from predominantly cool, north-facing vineyards. The results show plenty of vertical vigour and sharp tones with bright fruit, mineral graphite and blue flowers. Bibi strives for transparency in his wines, and although the 2022 vintage delivers heavier fruit flavours overall, the wine offers a nice textural lightness." Wine Advocate

"Precisely moulded and very intense, the Colore 2022 is both padded and bright. Dark berries, spices and blood orange are picked up by a lingering, savoury finish. At the moment it is more closed than the Testamatta, but with time it will reveal more of its beauty." Decanter

"Perfect Sangiovese, with cherry blossom, chalk, shells, fine sand and violets on the nose and palate. Medium to full-bodied with concentrated and balanced tannins that are beautifully integrated and quite endless. Crisp and chewy on the finish. So much presence. You want to spend time with this wine. A top selection from two vineyards, the Olmo and one in the village of Chianti Classico in Lamole, aged 60 and 88 years respectively. This is a wine that gives a lot of pleasure now, but will be even better in two or three years." James Suckling

Querciabella's Riserva, with an annual production of 10,000 bottles, is a selection of the best lots. It blends fruit from Greve, where the vineyards lie between 350 and 550 metres above sea level, with grapes from the stony high altitudes of Radda and the chalky soils of Gaiole. Tantalising aromas of spring flowers, cranberries and potting soil are accompanied by vanilla and smoke. On the palate, it is polished and pure, with a delicious, tangy acidity and sinewy tannins. As every year, one of the most refined wines of the appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby colour with a dark core. Elegant on the nose with notes of hibiscus, juniper berries, plus some saddle leather and undergrowth. Precise on the palate, fine tannins and fresh acidity, with pleasant pressure towards the lingering finish." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Riserva 2020, which has just been bottled, is still a little restrained. Crushed red flowers, mint, white pepper, aniseed and orange peel give the 2020 a beautiful aromatic brilliance that matches its medium-bodied personality. We find a Riserva of linear intensity and power, more than volume. The vineyard sites are Greve, Lamole and Radda." Vinous

"The Querciabella Riserva is a selection of the estate's best parcels. The bottling of the 2020 vintage shows the generosity and grace of the vintage. Attractive pressed flowers, plums and red berries intertwine with subtle wood smoke. Garden herbs and tangerines emerge on the palate. The tannins are assertive yet supple and sweet, culminating in a chalky grip. This invigorating and bright wine is already very enticing - but there is much more to discover." Decanter

"Aromas and flavours of cherries, raspberries, rosehips and black pepper characterise this bright red wine. It is light on its feet, but a hint of nubby tannins coats the finish. A hint of bitter almond lingers on the finish, along with fruit and spice flavours. It shows good balance and length." Wine Spectator

"Crisp and vibrant red berries with dried flowers, savoury herbs, cedar and spice box. Medium-bodied with fine, powdery tannins and lively acidity. Fresh and concentrated with a linear finish. Crisp with a mineral backbone." James Suckling

An impenetrably dense ruby red colour, the nose is dominated by a variety of ripe fruit aromas of sour cherry and black berries. The herbal flavours typical of the Negroamaro variety, its lively acidity and sweet tannins are well interwoven. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red with brightening edges. Intense aroma of ripe plums, blackberries and sweet tobacco, cloves. Medium structure on the palate, fine fruit flavour and well-integrated tannins, lingering, fruity final." Falstaff

"The nose balances aromas of rich, dark berries with a fresh, medicinal herbaceousness, while overtones of pepper and cola provide sparkle. The interplay between fruit and herbs continues on the palate, before a chocolatey finish that's framed by firm but round tannins and a strong ripple of acid." Wine Enthusiast

Sugarille is always a little darker, richer and more opulent than Rennina. Bouquet of remarkable richness. In the drink, dark red cherry, plum, smoke, liquorice and cloves fill out the wine's broad-shouldered frame well. Hints of mocha, chocolate, spices and black-fleshed fruit add the final layers of nuance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, medium-dense ruby garnet. Smells of fresh, crisp cherries, blood orange and Mediterranean herbs on the nose. Spreads out very richly on the attack, juicy, crisp cherry fruit and some blackberry characterise the palate, shows grippy, savoury tannin on the back end, long final." Falstaff

"Deep ruby red with orange reflections. Spicy and slightly reductive on the nose, with pure cherry underneath. Pure and concentrated on the palate, albeit slowly, with complex oak notes that slowly unfold. At the moment, the powdery tannins take the lead on the finish, but it still needs plenty of time." Jancis Robinson

"First produced in 1995, Sugarille is not made in every vintage - having been omitted in 2017, this single vineyard bottling returns. Dark cherry and black plum are peppered with bitter herbs, tobacco and wet stone. Strong tannins provide a solid framework, and tantalising acidity soars. Sweet oak nuances merge with the finish of liquorice roots. A great contender for the cellar." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Sugarille keeps me returning to the glass to enjoy its spicy yet wonderfully airy bouquet, where cedar and pine shavings evolve into mentholated herbs, flint and dried black cherries. This wine is very structured and soothing with its combination of ripe red fruits and juicy acidity, while sweet spices and mint nuances resonate towards the end. The sugarilla misses nothing, rejuvenating with impeccable balance and regal structure, while remnants of ripe wild berries and plums linger. The Gaja family has truly outdone itself in this idiosyncratic vintage." Vinous

"A dark, brooding 2018, with accents of smoke, vanilla, iron and tar surrounding a core of cherry and plum flavors. Reveals balsamic elements of eucalyptus and wild herbs on the lingering finish. On the austere side now, with a core of fruit and mineral." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Sugarille is structured, rich and intense, with particular richness and texture. This wine comes from a single site characterised by slaty Galestro soils. These conditions give the Sugarille its heavier focus and its particular power and strength. Dark fruits, balsamic herbs and pencil shavings create a beautiful and precise bouquet. Give this wine more time to mature." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of red plums, sour cherries, spice box, oranges, cloves and capers. Also moss and porcini mushrooms. Wonderfully open, with a medium to full body and very fine, silky tannins. A beautiful purity of fruit with a long, seamless finish. Ethereal and transparent." James Suckling

The lily is the flower of all flowers in Valpolicella and this exceptional Riserva is dedicated to the best of them. The grapes for this new flagship of the winery, produced in very small quantities, grow on 300-metre-high soils of mainly limestone with some sandy silt in the Monti Garbi district of the municipality of Mezzane di Sotto. The vines have an average age of 40 years and produce only small yields. After harvest, the grapes are selected twice by hand. The Lilium Est is aged for three years in new Bordeaux barriques, the laths of which have been dried outdoors for 36 months. Before it goes on sale, it remains in the bottle for at least another four years.

Dense ruby red, clear and consistent, olfactory very powerful, extensive and fine. The first impression is of balsamic, almost iodine-like notes, transported by the remarkable alcoholic content, to immediately reveal the characteristic scent of ripe cherries, plums, vanilla and ginger. Tertiary aromas of cocoa, chocolate, tar, almonds, roasted hazelnuts and pipe tobacco follow on the heels. The palate is dry, warm and soft, well supported by a remarkable acidity, of great palatability and equipped with an enveloping tannic structure. As it progresses, it is balanced, very persistent and fine. Undoubtedly a highly elegant, complex wine monument - a strong companion with broad shoulders that will defy time. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich and compact garnet red with ruby reflections. Complex and intense nose with notes of pickled plums and sour cherries, rum pot and some coffee. On the palate with powerful and at the same time supple tannin, with lots of ripe cherry fruit, juicy and with a long final." Falstaff

"Black dates, green tea, shellfish, seaweed, bark, melted dark chocolate and liquorice on the nose. Full-bodied and flavourful on the palate, a little old-fashioned, but complex and distinctive. It starts dry, but then becomes a little more generous, with a refined, bittersweet accent, before a long finish. A conservative Amarone that exudes quality. Beautiful now, but it will age for a long time." James Suckling

"Released 10 years after the harvest, the Tenuta Sant'Antonio Famiglia Castagnedi 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Riserva Lilium Est is packaged in a very heavy glass bottle with a red wax capsule. The wine has definitely started along its evolutionary track, although there is still some of that dark and opulent Amarone fruit to behold. Dried fruit aromas are wrapped within ample spice, leather, tar and a potent 16% alcohol content." Wine Advocate

"My goodness what a beguiling nose, wood, caramel, parma violet, floral with coffee/mocha tones. Full bodied and full of life, tannins make the immediate impact, massive and fleshy but also powdery so you get depth of flavour on the tongue and a fine coating of texture around the cheeks. A powerhouse of a wine, layers of vibrant acidity, rich concentration and lingering freshness with lovely aspects of coffee, toffee, star anise, vanilla, cinnamon, pepper and balsamic leather. The fruit is crisp with a high-toned toasting element, all of which seems to work in harmony to deliver a nuanced wine with so many facets." Decanter

"The 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Riserva Lilium Est delights from the first swirl of the glass with a seductive bouquet of sweet spices, sugary blueberries, sweet smoke and oak. This is pure elegance, almost opulent but not quite, with a balance of ripe red fruits and a bitter hint of cocoa to balance it out. The finish is smoky and firm, with fine-grained tannins that frame the wine without slowing its momentum, while nuances of coffee grounds and cloves slowly fade away. The 2012 could do with some ageing to further integrate the oak (it matured for four years in new barriques), but the use of wood is skilful." Vinous

Terlano I (pronounced Primo) Grande Cuvée is the name of the white flagship of Cantina Terlano. In recent years, the winery has made a name for itself worldwide with its long-lasting, mineral white wines. Even years later, the wines still present themselves with top freshness and great complexity. With this long history of white wines, since the 2011 vintage there is now a wine in which the essence of Terlan is expressed in an even more focussed way. Terlaner I Grande Cuvée combines the Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Sauvignon grape varieties from the Winkl, Kreuth and Vorberg vineyards to create a masterpiece which, due to its limited and exclusive nature, will only be available from hand-picked retailers and in selected top restaurants.

Brilliant straw yellow colour. Rich and complex on the nose with flavours of citrus fruit, white pepper and herbs as well as a delicate smoky note. Remarkable structure and refined texture that give it finesse, elegance and an unmistakable character. The extraordinarily long and salty finish leaves an almost endless impression as an expression of a unique mineral terroir. SUPERIORE.DE

"Highly refined and multi-layered fragrance with fine citrus, pink grapefruit and aromatic herbs. Something fascinating, almost primal with this distinctive herbal flavour. Wonderfully melting on the palate at first, but changes constantly in the glass and after a few minutes it appears very powerful with a delicate style and a juicy, vertical final, which is carried by the acidity and the spicy underlying fruit. What always fascinates me about these wines is the silky, melting mouthfeel with a refined texture." Weinwisser

"Brilliant light straw yellow with green nuances. Very clear and memorable nose, flavours of apricot, white peach, some mango, underpinned by flint and hazelnuts, exciting. Juicy and present on the palate, very clear, lots of fresh yellow fruit, salty, very long final." Falstaff

"The Terlaner Grande Cuvée Primo 2020 presents itself with a delicate blend of dusty stone, freshly spiced pear, white flowers and crushed raw almonds. It is elegance personified, silky yet lively. A hint of hazelnut custard enriches the notes of young peach, while a hint of minerality builds towards the end. The Primo finishes dramatically long yet youthfully tense, leaving a saturation of primary fruit that lingers under a bloom of citrus. The word "wow" doesn't do this wine justice. The 2020 is still a baby today. Is it Grande Cuvée or Grand Cru? Either way, it's fantastic." Vinous

"Layers of stone fruit and vanilla spice on the nose; tremendously intense and focused with mouthwatering acidity and a core of youthful citrus fruit that carries through to the long and well-defined finish. Fabulous and will only get better with age." Decanter

"It's so beautiful, with candied apples, peach peel, honeysuckle and almond biscuits. Also a hint of candied citrus and dried Mediterranean herbs. Full-bodied, so complex and concentrated. Impressively balanced and polished, with a structured mouthfeel and a delicate phenolic impression on the finish. Very long. Beautiful now, but there's no doubting its longevity." James Suckling

"The Terlaner Grand Cuvée Primo is all about texture. This beautiful wine bears the unique characteristics of oak and yeast ageing, which give it a delicate creaminess. It has plenty of richness and softness, followed by white wine tannins. Its rich and viscous mouthfeel is a perfect sounding board for lemon curd, caramel cream and the gelatine on a fruit tart." Wine Advocate

Franchetti Rosso is Passopisciaro's flagship wine and a stunningly perfect wine. The grapes come from 1000-metre-high northern Etna vineyard sites, where the soils are ash and pumice. Franchetti is a ripe, exotic wine that envelops the palate with dark fruit. Refined tannins support the fruit, while an intense inner sweetness adds elegance and finesse. A thoroughly outstanding drop. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Franchetti is a unique wine that perfectly interprets the high volcanic soils. Power, structure and then such a straightforward concentration of aromas: deep scent of black cherries, plums, orange zest and mint. Then comes a distinct minerality. Dark chocolate and blueberry show on the palate, spiced with fresh tarragon. A great wine to know from Etna." Vinum

"The Vini Franchetti 2020 Franchetti is very spicy and savory with inky black fruit aromas. You feel the 15.5% alcohol content over the wine's thick, full-bodied texture." Wine Advocate

"Dark ruby red with a delicately lightening rim. In the nose of ripe heart cherries, paired with cold smoke, mulberries as well as freshly roasted coffee and a hint of Ras-el-Hanout. Extremely polished and compact on the palate, opens to juicy tannin, punchy and with plenty of finesse, keeps coming back, dense, long and balanced." Falstaff

"The 2020 Franchetti is beautiful, jumping out of the glass, spicy and intense, showing off its Cesanese aromas with a mix of blackberries, lavender, sage, white pepper and smoke that make it impossible to ignore. This wine is very structured, almost creamy yet tangy, with medium body and a salty core of minerality that balances the masses of ripe dark fruit and sweet herbal notes. The length is amazing, as is the harmony within. It finishes structured yet supple, with violet flowers and nuances of plum jam that linger. This wine is already very appealing, elegance personified, but the best is surely yet to come." Vinous

Rare exceptional Merlot from the west of Tuscany: Deep ruby red with violet reflections. Multi-layered bouquet with hints of wild berries and blackberries, ripe cherries, but also liquorice and tobacco notes. Very structured and at the same time lively on the palate. The silky tannins underline the filigree minerality until the seemingly endless finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"This lush, silky red is introduced by deep aromas of black cherry and blackberry, with hints of chocolate, coffee, vanilla and minerals that develop into a long, complex aftertaste. Despite its richness, it also has finesse and detail." Wine Spectator

"Bright, rich ruby, Intense and fine nose with notes of blackberry, wild raspberry, then mint and Mediterranean herbs. On the palate marked by hearty, dense tannin, entwined with lots of sweet melting, fine spice on the back end, finishes on sweet tobacco, but also needs some time." Falstaff

"Aromas of cigar box, black plums, cherries, mocha and toasted walnuts. Full-bodied with firm, taut and chewy tannins. Structured and deep with sophisticated oak spice character. Still tight at the moment. Yet very fine and elegant. Finesse for Redigaffi. Give it a few years to show even more. Try it in 2026." James Suckling

"The nose begins sweet and classic, like berries dipped in vanilla and chocolate, and then expands to include a riot of wild herbs. On the palate, the interplay between chocolaty berries and savory undertones continues before a burst of acidity and tannins that are so fine-grained and smooth they're almost ethereal. It's magical now but no doubt will be even better after some time." Wine Enthusiast

"The Tua Rita 2020 Redigaffi is the winery's top wine, made from Merlot. The bouquet smells of dark fruits, dried apricots, spices, leather and ashes from the campfire. You can taste the special fullness and concentration in this full-bodied red wine. On the palate, the Redigaffi is soft and approachable with rich layering and texture." Wine Advocate

San Leonardo is the flagship of the winery of the same name and one of the best red wines in Trentino every year. Opulent bouquet with nuances of dark fruit such as blackberry and sour cherry. Delicate notes of spices, leather and tobacco give it a terrific complexity, which is then enhanced on the palate by a harmonious interplay of dark berries and plums, all flanked by clearly contoured tannins. A masterful red with a strong personality that will reach its true greatness after a few more years of bottle ageing and live up to its reputation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Gently shining ruby colour with a dark core and garnet-red rim. Intense and complex on the nose, of cassis and blackberry, geranium, toasted black bread and liquorice. Precise fruit on the palate, finely woven tannins, powerful but not disruptive, long and with great potential." Falstaff

"Transparent garnet red colour. High-toned, with balsamic notes and some black pepper. Extremely graceful - not intrusive. Already very likeable, but with time it will certainly develop even more complexity. A wine for the table and with food that is not too intrusive." Jancis Robinson

"Though carrying an elegant sense of poise, this supple, medium- to full-bodied red isn't all laced up. Instead, its fragrant tobacco and espresso accents to the ripe black and red currant fruit flavors are flashes that impart well-tailored charm. Long and refreshing, with fine-grained tannins emerging on the creamy finish of spice and mineral notes." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 San Leonardo is unmissable and epitomises everything I love about this northern Italian Bordeaux blend. Masses of white pepper, sage, incense, sandy earth and fresh tobacco give way to dusty redcurrants. This wine is a paragon of elegance yet savoury and flavoursome at its core, with mineral red and black fruits flowing over a silky texture. The 2019 finishes classically dry with a crisp tannin but retains an impossible freshness as the savoury herbal tones slowly fade. It's stunning and reminiscent of the absolute top vintages I've ever tasted from San Leonardo." Vinous

"The cool profile of this wine is evident in the fresh and spicy aromas of red and blackcurrant, leafy lightness, capsicum and leather with a hint of smoke. The complexity of the nose is supported by an elegant palate, with a structure of filigree tannins, crisp, integrated acidity, a medium body and a long, super spicy aftertaste reminiscent of dark cherries." James Suckling

The wine from the single vineyard of the same name is probably the most opulent of the selection lines of the house. The bouquet is almost brush-stroke wide with a presence of ripe fruit, spices and hints of crushed rock. On the palate it is impressively smooth and full, with a whole bouquet of dark fruit aromas flanked by firm, structured tannins. The Merlot portion gives it additional depth and power. SUPERIORE.DE

" Seductive nose of maraschino cherries, vanilla, lilac; full-bodied entry, perfectly rounded texture with tight tannins, great length and red-berry freshness, also fine leather and tobacco notes. Of great complexity." Vinum

"Deep, dark ruby with a violet tint. Opened with emphatically earthy notes, after tobacco and truffle, then lots of elderberry and blackberry. Firm and gripping tannin, shows a lot of power, full-bodied, after elderberries, in the final a bit rough, still needs storage. Falstaff

"This aromatic Chianti Classico features violet, black cherry, leather, earth and spice flavors. A laser of bracing acidity and muscular tannins runs underneath. The balance tips toward the tannins today, but put this in your cellar for another few years. Sleek and very long." Wine Spectator

"From the small vineyard facing Castello di Ama from the north, the 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto la Casuccia shows a dark and hearty side with rich fruit that flows steadily from the bouquet. Like the other new releases from this iconic estate, this wine shows a pretty earthy note that is particularly well defined and fine-tuned in this vintage. The fruit is broad, thick and horizontal. This is a Sangiovese painted with broad brush strokes. It'll stand another decade or two, or open it sooner with a pappardelle al cinghiale." Wine Advocate

"The 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto La Casuccia is rich, sensual and inviting, as it so often is. The addition of Merlot to Sangiovese yields a Chianti Classico built on textural resonance, with silky tannins, soft curves and tons of sheer allure. The 2016 won't be ready to drink anytime soon, but it is unquestionably a great wine in the making. Succulent dark cherry, red plum, menthol, licorice, cloves and new oak infuse the creamy, voluptuous finish." Vinous

"Mature black-skinned berry, rose, tilled soil and a balsamic whiff of eucalyptus shape the nose. The bright, elegant palate has energy, tension and depth, delivering ripe wild cherry, red plum, licorice and crushed botanical herb. Taut, fine-grained tannins lend polished support while fresh acidity keeps it balanced. A gorgeous wine." Wine Enthusiast